Cougar Shotgun Is Second in State

The 2024 season was one of challenges for the Piedmont Academy shotgun team.

Piedmont moved from GIAA Class AA to Class AAA competing against several standout programs. In the end, the Clay Crushing Cougars took second place at state, breaking 1,366 of 1,5000 targets.

Emory Hilliard was third in trap shooting while Drake Tingler was fourth.

Hillard (277), Barrett Downing (277), Tingler (276), Davis Downs (274) and Jake Pope (262) were the top shooters.

Downing, Downs, Tingler and Hilliard were each named All-State.

“I am very proud of our shotgun team this season and how they worked together as a team,” Coach Lauren Hillard said. “We have four All-State shooters and to place second in the state is quite an accomplishment. I have enjoyed coaching this group of kids this season and watching each shooter grow in this sport.”