CLEVELAND, Ga. (September 16, 2025) – Truett McConnell University's own
Ethan Ledford has made history as the youngest inductee into the Georgia Trapshooting Hall of Fame. A criminal justice major and member of the TMU Shotgun Team, Ledford's induction recognizes not only his remarkable achievements on the range but also his leadership and commitment to the future of the sport.
"Christ guides my hand and keeps my aim true," says Ledford. "I thank my many friends and my family who have had my back! Christ is King!"Â
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Ledford began his trapshooting career at age 11 with the Henry County 4-H Shotgun Team. While practicing at the Griffin Gun Club, he was introduced to registered trapshooting and quickly embraced the sport. In April 2019, at just 14 years old, he shot his first registered ATA targets, breaking 91 out of 100 at the South River Gun Club. His first trophy, earned in a tense handicap shoot-off, sparked a passion that has fueled his career ever since.
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By 2020, Ledford was named a National Ambassador for 4-H Shooting Sports, mentoring young shooters and promoting leadership in the field. The following year, at 17, he reached the prestigious 27-yard line in handicap shooting. After graduating from Ola High School in 2022, Ledford signed with Truett McConnell University on scholarship to compete at the collegiate level while pursuing his degree in criminal justice.
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Over the years, Ledford has compiled an extraordinary list of accolades. He is a four-time ATA All-American, earning Junior Gold First Team honors in 2024 and 2025, as well as multiple Junior Second Team designations. He has been named to the Georgia State Trapshooting Team for five consecutive years, serving as captain for three, and has amassed an impressive collection of titles, including 12 Georgia State Championships, 11 Non-Resident Championships, 19 Georgia State Junior/Junior Gold titles, and over 100 Non-Resident Junior/Junior Gold wins. His resume also includes 13 Grand American trophies, 47 Satellite Grand trophies, 16 Zone trophies, and three collegiate ACUI wins.
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One of his most memorable achievements came earlier this year at the 2025 Georgia Trapshooting Championships, where he swept all championship events, capturing singles, doubles, handicap, High All Around, and High Over All titles. In March, Ledford also delivered a standout performance at the SCTP Nationals recording a runner-up finish in Doubles Trap against some of the best shooters in the nation.
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Beyond competition, Ledford is passionate about giving back to the sport. He continues to mentor and recruit young shooters, helping to build the next generation of trapshooting talent.
"Ethan's accomplishments are remarkable, but what sets him apart is his dedication to both excellence and mentorship," said Vice President for Athletics
Jenni Shepard. "We are proud to celebrate his induction into the Georgia Trapshooting Hall of Fame and honored that he represents Truett McConnell University."
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Ledford's induction marks not only a historic milestone for him personally but also a shining moment for Truett McConnell University, as he continues to inspire others with his performance, leadership, and commitment to the sport of trapshooting.
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