Success StoryMetcalfe 4-H Shooting Sports



Metcalfe 4-H Shooting Sports

Author: Amy Branstetter

Planning Unit: Metcalfe County CES

Major Program: Natural Resources 4-H Core Curriculum

Plan of Work: Leadership and Communications

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Kentucky 4-H Shooting Sports Education Program began in Kentucky in 1988, mirroring the same program in Texas. The program grew rapidly where now it involves approximately 8,000 youth and 1300 volunteers statewide.
 It is a program for all youth, 9 to18 years of age (4-H age). The program believes that:

  • Youth development is the number one goal of the Shooting Sports Education Program
  • It provides an effective tool for human growth and development for youth and adults
  • It is an introduction to the safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment which is a valuable life skill.
  • It trains youth to handle and shoot firearms safely. It teaches leadership and responsibility in a non-formal environment while offering fun activities for youth and adults. While competition is not the main focus, the program does offer opportunities to participate in shooting events, competing in various disciplines and age groups.


 The disciplines included in the program are Shotgun (12 and 20 gauge or smaller); Rifle (.22 cal. Bolt action, Air and BB); Pistol (Air and .22 cal.); Muzzleloader (Rifle and Pistol); Archery (Compound Bare and Recurve, Bow Hunter and Target); and Hunter Challenge. All clubs and events are coordinated and supervised by nationally and state trained volunteers. 

Metcalfe County has a total of 32 youth and 14 Certified Volunteers. This year we had a number of youth that participated in completions across the state. 

  • The State 4-H Competition was held September 8th and 9th, 2018 at Bluegrass Sportsmen's League, Wilmore - September 8, 2018
  • Miller Welch - Central KY Wildlife Management Area, Berea - September 9, 2018

The Metcalfe County 4-H youth competed at the State Competition

Shot Gun Division, 22 Sport, 22 Long Rifle, 22 Pistol.

Metcalfe County had a number of youth that were in the top 10 at the State Shoot.






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