Incredible Opportunity For Pistol Shooters
Train with Champions. Develop Your Potential.
Applications are now open for the NSRA National Pistol Squad 2027.
We're looking for motivated Junior and Senior pistol athletes who want to improve their shooting, develop their competitive performance, and train alongside like-minded shooters in a supportive and ambitious environment.
Whether your goal is to improve your personal best, compete at national level, or pursue international ambitions, the NSRA National Pistol Squad could help you take the next step.
Learn from Some of Britain's Most Successful Pistol Shooters
The squad is led by:
George Darling - Head Pistol Coach
A highly respected coach and former international athlete, George won Commonwealth Games Gold in the Men's 10m Air Pistol as well as a Silver medal in the 10m Air Pistol Pairs competition. Throughout his shooting and coaching career, George has helped develop athletes to achieve their potential at national and international level.
Michael Gault OBE - Technical Coach
One of the most successful pistol shooters ever to represent England, Mick won 18 Commonwealth Games medals, including 9 Gold medals, across six Commonwealth Games appearances. He also represented Great Britain internationally, winning ISSF World Cup medals and earning an OBE for services to shooting.
Together, George and Mick bring decades of elite competitive and coaching experience, offering athletes a unique opportunity to learn directly from two of the sport's most accomplished figures.
What the Squad Offers
Eight training weekends per year at NSRA Aldersley
Expert technical coaching and performance development
Personal support to help you improve your scores and consistency
Training with dedicated and ambitious athletes
A positive team environment focused on learning and progression
Access to proven international-level knowledge and experience
Our Philosophy
We believe every athlete can improve with the right guidance, commitment and mindset.
Our aim is simple:
"Be The Best You Can Be"
No matter where you are on your shooting journey, we'll work with you to develop your skills, build confidence, and maximise your potential.
What Our Athletes Say
"Although I am relatively new to the NSRA National Pistol Squad, I cannot speak highly enough of the programme and the coaching support it provides.
The knowledge and experience shared by George and Mick have been exceptional. What stands out most is their ability to turn elite-level expertise into practical advice that athletes of all ages and abilities can understand and apply immediately.
The squad has already helped me develop as both a shooter and an athlete, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their performance."
Do I Need to Be an International Shooter?
Absolutely not.
We're looking for athletes who are enthusiastic, committed, willing to learn, and keen to improve. If you're serious about developing your pistol shooting, we'd encourage you to get in touch.
How to Apply
The squad is self-funded, and athletes contribute towards training and squad activities.
To be considered for selection, please send your shooting CV (a brief summary of your shooting experience and goals) to:
George Darling g.darling10@hotmail.com
We look forward to welcoming the next generation of NSRA pistol athletes.
Best regards and good shooting,
George Darling,
Head Pistol Coach
