During the Match

Once the match begins, your job shifts from planning to execution. At this point, the focus is on keeping the event moving smoothly, addressing issues as they arise, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all competitors.

This section outlines key responsibilities during the match, including staff roles, check-in, handling emergencies, and supporting your shooters.

Squads and On-Squad Leadership

Every squad should include at least one experienced shooter — ideally a certified Range Officer (RO). This helps ensure rules are followed and problems are addressed promptly.

Best practices:

• Ensure each squad has at least one RO or experienced competitor
• Use the PractiScore “RO” field during registration to help assign staff
• When possible, avoid grouping all new shooters together
• Assign experienced staff to squads with more new participants

If necessary, match staff should step in to redistribute shooters or reassign squads to maintain coverage and flow.

Identify Key Match Staff

Make sure competitors know who to turn to if something goes wrong. Announce key roles during the pre-match briefing:

• Match Director: Oversees the event and enforces match policies
• Range Master: Handles rules, arbitration, and major decisions
• Stats/IT Staff: Manages tablet syncing, scores, and PractiScore issues
• Medical Support: Know who on-site has first aid or medical training

These roles may overlap depending on the size of your event. The important part is that someone is clearly identified and available for each responsibility.

New Shooter Orientation

Most clubs provide a mandatory orientation for new shooters or those visiting the range for the first time. This orientation should:

• Review safety protocols and range commands
• Explain key USPSA rules and DQ conditions
• Help shooters understand what to expect on each stage
• Answer questions and encourage new competitors to ask for help

Let the squad know who the new shooters are so they can be supported and not asked to shoot first. Pair them with a mentor if possible.

Supporting Competitor Needs

Part of running a great match is providing basic support for your competitors:

• Water: Especially important in hot or dry environments — consider placing coolers or bottled water on bays
• Restrooms: Ensure facilities are accessible and communicated clearly
• Shade/Shelter: If possible, provide shaded areas or pop-ups during long summer matches
• First Aid Kits: These should be visible, stocked, and accessible

Check-in Process

Efficient check-in sets the tone for match day. It should include:

• Open check-in window: Typically 30 to 60 minutes before the match
• Deadline: Set a hard stop (e.g., 15 minutes before first shots) to finalize squads and tablets
• Late arrivals: If a shooter has not checked in by the deadline, unsquad them or move them to a holding squad

Tip: Don’t delete a no-show immediately. Instead, move them to an unused squad or leave them unassigned. If they arrive late, they can be added back without reentering data.

Some clubs have adopted penalties for habitual no-shows or require advance communication to remain in the match.

Keeping the Match Moving

Flow is critical to finishing on time and maintaining a positive experience. Match staff or squad leaders should:

• Monitor stage delays or backup
• Politely address squads falling behind pace
• Remind squads to prep the next shooter and reset efficiently

Some clubs assign a “floater” — an experienced staff member who checks on stages and provides help where needed.

Summary

During the match, your role is to manage the experience. By supporting your staff, monitoring flow, and addressing needs in real time, you’ll help ensure the event runs efficiently and safely for everyone involved.