DIVA Women Outdoors Worldwide (DIVA WOW), the worldwide sisterhood that provides a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment where women come together to celebrate their love for outdoor sports, hunting, fishing, and the outdoor lifestyle, recently sponsored and hosted the Ladies Beginner Shotgun Clinic and Ladies Open at the National Sporting Clays Association Nationals. It was the 5th consecutive year that the group hosted the event, held in San Antonio, Texas, October 19-27, 2024. DIVA WOW introduced 90 new shooters to the art of sporting clays in the sold-out clinic.
At the heart of the DIVA WOW-sponsored clinic were five dedicated DIVA Lifetime members/NRA instructors. Each brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to support newcomers in their shooting journey. Their passion for teaching was evident as they shared tips, techniques, and encouragement. Alongside them stood 10 skilled NRA Range Safety Officers (RSO). These professionals ensured that safety protocols were met while fostering a fun environment.
Guided by these experts, many women discovered a newfound confidence in their abilities and headed straight for Industry Row, where they were able to meet with shotgun manufacturers. Each purchase symbolized not only an investment in equipment but also in themselves.
For some, this represented a new journey into competitive shooting, and the Ladies Open would be the start of embracing the new challenges head-on. One hundred and fifty-five competitors took to the course, each with their unique flair, creating a vibrant tapestry of experience levels and backgrounds. Some were first timers, while others had years of experience under their belts, but all, like DIVA WOW, shared the spirit of camaraderie.
DIVA WOW is celebrating an impressive milestone of 25 years dedicated to introducing women and youth to shooting sports through clinics across the country. This commitment has not only empowered countless individuals but also fostered a vibrant community where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their experience level.
The legacy of DIVA WOW shines brightly as they continue to break barriers in outdoor sports. Their continued partnership with events like the NSCA Clinic and Open reinforces their mission: to encourage participation, build confidence, and enhance the skills among women in shooting sports.
“As we look back on five successful years sponsoring this event, it is clear that our impact resonated well beyond just one clinic or competition,” said Judy Rhodes, founder.
“With every shot fired and every laugh shared, DIVA WOW stands at the forefront of change in the outdoor sporting world. Here’s to many more years of empowering women and shaping future generations who will embrace shooting sports with passion and pride.”
About DIVA-WOW: What originally began as Texas Women’s Shooting in 1999 by Judy Rhodes, eventually grew to become DIVA-WOW, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit worldwide organization to introduce women and youth to the world of the outdoors. All women and youth demographics are welcome to participate in the events, clinics, and leagues, which are designed for all levels, especially beginners of recreational shooters, hunters, and anglers. DIVA-WOW is a uniquely all-volunteer-based organization that truly reflects its passion for the outdoors and teaching. Membership includes astronauts to zookeepers and is the FIRST stop where women and youth begin their outdoor journey. To learn more visit divawow.org.
