Joan Cianciolo – Inspiring Confidence through Positive Experiences

How and/or Why did you get started in shooting sports?

As my youngest was finishing high school, I suddenly had this thing called “free time” as I was not spending my evenings and weekends at volleyball games and wrestling matches. At the same time, I was working from home, and my husband wanted me to have something for self-protection. Keep in mind, that I had my permit but did not shoot ever. I went to the gun store and ended up purchasing a rifle. When I picked up the rifle, I asked if they would show me how to shoot a pistol. He brought me to the range and showed me what to do. I did everything he said, and then…bullseye! The feeling I felt at the moment was beyond amazing and I was hooked! I immersed myself in any and all training I could find in my state and then I started traveling out of state. My husband had a family membership to a local gun club, but I never went. I started going to the gun club and started shooting USPSA practical pistol matches. I also joined the precision pistol (aka bulls-eye) team. I spent more time at range than my husband. So much, that when my husband would go, he was referred to as “Joan’s husband”. 

Why are you passionate about working for SLG2?

Many women that go to SLG2 events are inexperienced or first-time shooters. I know they may be pushing themselves outside their comfort zone just showing up at the trailer (as a woman, I get it). I want to be the person that gives them a positive, rewarding experience that leaves them wanting more. Someone did that for me (see my story above) and now I’m paying it forward. There’s nothing like watching someone walk in the trailer with apprehension and then leave the trailer with big, confident smiles. 

When not shooting, what do you love to do?

I like to kayak and go to the gym. I’m taking piano lessons soon!