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

Rao Certified Scouts Shotgun Photo By Rao
Rao Certified Scouts Shotgun Photo By Rao

NRA Certifications Are Not Just for Instructing

When you add an NRA certification to your resume, it takes your shooting experience to the next level.

New Guns 2026: Taurus GX4 Carry in .380 Auto

The new chambering provides reduced felt recoil for greater comfort, control and confidence.

ScentLok Sponsors "Women Who Hunt" Podcast

Three women are set to break down barriers, share hard-earned wisdom, and celebrate what unites hunters everywhere.

Gun Tote'n Mamas Announces Partnership with Byrna Technologies

The partnership brings together two companies committed to expanding responsible personal protection options by pairing purpose-built concealed carry handbags with innovative less lethal technology.

Review: Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 38 2.0 Revolver

The latest version of this budget-priced carry revolver sports an improved trigger and sight system.

Friends of NRA Celebrates Milestone: 5 Million Attendees Nationwide

The achievement reflects more than three decades of bringing communities together to support firearm safety, education, training, youth development and the future of the shooting sports.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.