Straight Shooter Profile: Meet Shoot United’s Thea Van Syoc

Shoot United's newest ambassador is now a prominent firearms instructor who started her journey in 2015.

posted on February 13, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Shoot United has released its newest Straight Shooter profile, which highlights its new ambassador, prominent firearms instructor Thea Van Syoc. 

Thea started her firearms training journey in 2015 after viewing a video of a female competitive shooter excelling in competition. Seeing female representation in the sport inspired Thea to pursue a path of her own in the shooting sports. Now, nine years later, Thea is a recognizable firearms instructor specializing in handgun training, and has started a series of women-only training courses that introduce women to responsible firearm ownership and defensive shooting. 

“Thea’s story is the inspiration we want to share with people who are interested in getting involved in the shooting sports and responsible firearms ownership,” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot United. “We are excited to work with Thea, and share her knowledge and content.”

The Straight Shooter video series, presented by Shoot United, explores the human element of the shooting sports. There are millions of firearm owners, coming from all walks of life, that have been positively impacted by the shooting sports and Shoot United serves as a resource to share those stories. “Shoot United is a great one-stop resource that new firearm owners can utilize to learn about safety and responsible ownership. I’m excited to partner with Shoot United and contribute to the education of new participants in the shooting sports and personal defense,” said Thea Van Syoc. You can watch the video above, on ShootUnited.com, as well as on the Shoot United YouTube channel. Stay tuned for more content from Thea, including an all-new Take Your Shot series that covers the basics of personal defense as it pertains to firearms. For more information on upcoming Shoot United events or to sign up for the newsletter, visit ShootUnited.com.

About Shoot United
Shoot United is a dynamic initiative designed to promote all that’s wholesome and healthful about the shooting sports and responsible firearm ownership. It’s time spent outdoors with family and friends. It’s competition. It’s one of the most fun and safe recreational activities in the country. The mission is to drive awareness and activate new participants to the sport by sharing engaging and educational content as well as providing resources where people can learn how to participate in the shooting sports and hunting activities.

Shoot United is committed to safe, legal and responsible firearm use. Shoot United supports key groups like the National Shooting Sports Foundation on a variety of topics important to our industry including training and education, and specific programs such as Gun Owners Care and Project ChildSafe. Shoot United will continue to support programs, organizations and individuals that promote hunting and shooting sports activities in a positive and responsible environment. Any use of firearms by youth participants should be done under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult.

Latest

Deering NRR Leupold Image A27I7001
Deering NRR Leupold Image A27I7001

Why Noise Reduction Rating Isn’t Straightforward

No, an NRR of 27 on your ear plugs does not mean the noise you’re exposed to is reduced by 27 decibels. Not even close, actually.

What Is Frangible Ammo?

What is so unique about frangible ammunition, and what can or should you use it for?

What’s So Special About “Specials”?

Although revolvers can be chambered for magnum cartridges, alternative cartridges—Specials—can be used in the four most common revolver calibers.

Top 10 Cringiest Stock Photos of Women and Guns

An image search for “women with guns” leads to ridiculous results. These are 10 of the worst we’ve seen.

Team B&P USA’s Karen Miles Captures Main Lady Title at 2026 NSCA Northeast Regional Championship

Miles also took the FITASC HOA title while also earning third place in 5-Stand Lady and Runner-Up honors in Super Sporting Lady.

The Armed Citizen® Reload May 22, 2026

How 'bout them apples? A trip to the grocery store was anything but average for a random attack victim.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.