View full article PDF here.Recap: 2024 ATA All-American Captains
Each year, the ATA names team captains across all categories, recognizing the shooters who not only dominated on the line but also embody the character, discipline, and love for the sport that define trapshooting. In 2024, the captains shared their stats, gear, and personal insights—from their best advice to pre-shot mantras and even how they spend the winter months.
Open Captain
Keith Ditto (KY) – Retired lineman and Perazzi MX2000 shooter. With over 5,000 targets in both singles and handicap, his advice is simple: “One bird at a time.”
Lady 1 Captain
Raylee Bishop (IA) – College student and rising star with more than 3,000 All-American points. She emphasizes character off the line, saying, “If you’re a decent human, people are more likely to give you advice or open doors.”
Lady 2 Captain
Debbie Ohye-Neilson (PA) – A true legend of the game with nearly 9,000 singles targets and decades of success. Her timeless advice: “Do your best, have fun, and be as gracious a loser as you are a winner.”
Sub Junior Captain
Wyatt DeBrie (NE) – At just 9th grade, Wyatt already posted more than 6,600 singles targets in 2023. His key: “Never lose focus in between shots.”
Junior Captain
Cole Henning (IA) – A standout balancing college, commercial fishing, and championship shooting. He credits Phil Simms for teaching him how to read handicap targets.
Junior Gold Captain
Dagen Voigtman (NE) – Accounting student and top-tier competitor. His best advice: “Always focus on your own game.” His routine involves a mental checklist before every call.
Sub Veteran Captain
Scott Gens (MN) – A farmer and well-known competitor, Scott uses a Perazzi MX10 RS. His mantra: “Eyes still, gun still.”
Veteran Captain
Dale Stockdale (IA) – Stockdale Gun Club owner, Hall of Famer, and Veteran Captain. His advice: “Listen. Ditch the phone when you’re around better shooters.”
Senior Veteran Captain
Robert Rimer Jr. (OK) – A decorated ATA competitor who’s now retired. He highlights the importance of routines and focus, often repeating to himself: “Head down, look at the target.”
Chairshooter Captain
Ziggy Tkaczenko (MO) – Army veteran and adaptive shooter. His routine mirrors the advice he gives his daughter: “Hold still, go through your routine, see the target, move to the target, break target, follow through.”
Final Take
From legends like Debbie Ohye-Neilson to young stars like Wyatt DeBrie, the 2024 All-American Captains showcase the depth of talent and character across trapshooting. Their wisdom, gear insights, and shooting philosophies offer valuable lessons for shooters of every level.
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