The North Dakota State High School Target League season is underway, as 2,545 athletes on 102 high school teams are competing this spring. The 2,257 athletes that registered in North Dakota is a new record, according to a press release that was sent out on Tuesday afternoon.

“Parents want safe, school-based, non-traditional outdoor activities for their students. They want their youth to have the sense of belonging and camaraderie that team activities provide without the high costs and limited playing opportunities of traditional high school sports.” said John Nelson through a press release. Nelson is the President of the USA Clay Target League.

Nelson added, “Every year 95% of non-graduating students return to participate in the League’s programs, and nearly 9,800 new athletes joined the League this spring through their school’s teams nationwide.”

Local high school students who are competing this year have already seen their spring season begin. Regular season play will run until May 20, then the state tournament will take place in June and the high school national championship will take place in July.

Area athletes and teams have been practicing since March 26. Conferences will be announced on April 10, leading up to week one competition that will begin on April 16.