If you’d asked me a year ago whether I’d be standing in the sunshine watching a group of incredible women laughing over tea and cake after spending an afternoon breaking clays together, I probably wouldn’t have believed you.
But here we are.
Our very first official She Shoots Collective event took place at Ian Coley Sporting, and honestly… it couldn’t have gone much better.
From the moment everyone arrived, there was such a lovely atmosphere. Some ladies had never held a shotgun before, others had a little experience, and a few were regular shots—but that was exactly the point. She Shoots Collective was created to bring women together, regardless of experience, in a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable giving it a go.
No pressure. No judgement. Just good company and plenty of encouragement.
One of my favourite moments was seeing complete beginners smash their first clay. The smile afterwards says it all. It never gets old watching that little spark of confidence appear after someone realises, “Actually… I can do this!”
Of course, none of it would have been possible without the fantastic team at Ian Coley Sporting. Their instructors were patient, knowledgeable and genuinely invested in making sure everyone had a brilliant afternoon. They somehow managed to make every single person feel capable, whether they’d shot hundreds of cartridges or none at all.
And then there was the cake…
Because what is a She Shoots afternoon without tea, cake and a proper catch-up afterwards? Some of the best conversations happened in the clubhouse once the guns had been put away. New friendships were made, plans were already being discussed for the next event, and it felt like the beginning of something really special.
Seeing women arrive on their own and leave having met new friends is exactly why I started She Shoots Collective.
This isn’t just about clay shooting.
It’s about building confidence.
It’s about trying something new.
It’s about spending time outdoors, learning a new skill and meeting like-minded women who all share a love for the countryside—or simply want to discover it.
The support everyone showed one another throughout the afternoon was honestly incredible. Every broken clay was celebrated, every near miss was laughed about, and by the end of the day nobody felt like a stranger.
That, to me, is what the Collective is all about.
A huge thank you to every single lady who came along and trusted us for our very first event. You helped create exactly the atmosphere I’d always dreamed of, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
The good news?
We’re only just getting started.
Our Ian Coley Ladies Afternoons are now becoming a regular fixture, so whether you’ve never picked up a shotgun before or you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly group to shoot with, we’d absolutely love to welcome you.
Come on your own.
Bring your mum.
Bring your sister.
Bring your best friend.
Or simply come and meet some new ones.
We’ll have the clays ready—and the cake waiting.
See you at the next one.
Rosie 🤍
Founder, She Shoots Collective
