Success StoryAiming High with New 4-H Shooting Sports Club
Aiming High with New 4-H Shooting Sports Club
Author: Sue Ann Loyall
Planning Unit: Green County CES
Major Program: Natural Resources
Plan of Work: Developing Youth Into Productive and Contributing Citizens
Outcome: Initial Outcome
Green County has a strong sports culture with numerous opportunities for youth with athletic talents, but has limited opportunities for other youth. Overall programs for youth outside of sports has been limited within the 4-H program for some time. Green County is also a rural community in which youth desire to participate in hunting and outdoor recreation activities. Parents have also expressed a desire for youth to learn responsibility, firearm safety and marksmanship in safe environment.
In Spring 2025, Green County Extension Council sent two volunteers to obtain certifications to coach archery for a new 4-H Shooting Sports Club (yet to be officially named). An initial interest meeting was held soon after certification and club/practice meetings were scheduled. Flyers were shared at school and on social media and an article was published in the local newspaper.
The initial club was formed with seven new to 4-H members ages 9-15 with weekly meetings and practices held within the warehouse of the Extension Office. Safety has been the key element followed by skill building, teamwork and character development. Membership has remained consistent each week and members are planning to attend their first competition with the goal of attending the state competition in September.
One hundred percent of the membership have completed safety training, ninety percent report improved confidence and goal-setting skills.
One parent commented on the program, "I cannot express my gratitude for this program enough, you are keeping us off the softball field in which my daughter wanted no part of. It was not for her and we are grateful for this program and the opportunity to learn something new and develop skills as well increasing her confidence and new friendships."
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