We Believe

Human growth and development is the primary goal of the 4-H Shooting Sports program.  Shooting Sports is an outstanding way to provide human growth and development opportunities.  Introducing safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment opens valuable vocational and life-long recreational education.

 

• Why shooting sports?
  • About two-thirds of the homes in the United States have firearms. Exposure to safe and responsible handling is vital to preventing accidents at home or next door.
  • Shooting is the second most popular international sport behind track and field. It is nearly unique in being a lifetime sport.
  • Shooting Sports attracts new audiences to 4-H and creates adult/youth bonds.
• Program goals
  • To encourage understanding of natural resource concepts through participant's interest in shooting and hunting.
  • To enhance development of participant's self-concept, character and personal growth through safe, educational and socially acceptable involvement in shooting activities.
  • To teach safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment, including sound decision-making, self-discipline and concentration.
  • To promote the highest standards of safety, sportsmanship and ethical behavior.
  • To expose participants to the broad array of vocations and life-long vocational activities related to Shooting Sports.
  • To strengthen families through life-long recreational activities.
  • To complement and enhance the impact of existing safety and hunter education programs
• Program goals:
  • To encourage understanding of natural resource concepts through participant's interest in shooting and hunting.
  • To enhance development of participant's self-concept, character and personal growth through safe, educational and socially acceptable involvement in shooting activities.
  • To teach safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment, including sound decision-making, self-discipline and concentration.
  • To promote the highest standards of safety, sportsmanship and ethical behavior.
  • To expose participants to the broad array of vocations and life-long vocational activities related to Shooting Sports.
  • To strengthen families through life-long recreational activities.
  • To complement and enhance the impact of existing safety and hunter education programs.
• Shooting sports includes?
  • Archery
  • Hunting and Wildlife
  • Air Rifle
  • Shotgun
  • Each discipline teaches safety, concentration, self-discipline, self-confidence, goal-setting, decision-making and courtesy as young people learn basic skills and build toward more advanced activities.  Both competitive and cooperative skills are included.  Participants are exposed to local policies, regulations, laws, and ethical behavior through repeat demonstrations and personal practice.
• A Shooting Sports Leader Is?
  • Interested in youth and their development
  • Interested in some phase of shooting
  • Willing to learn how to teach effectively
  • Willing to be helpful, open and supportive
  • Interested in challenges with rewards
  • Enthusiastic, positive and energetic
  • Honest, self-disciplined and kind
    Shooting ability is not essential, but a willingness to learn coaching skills is required.  Training is available for interested people.  Program materials provide excellent support to certified leaders and to those who assist them with the program.
• Leader Responsibilities
  • Learn and practice higher standards of safety.
  • Learn and practice cooperative coaching techniques.
  • Learn and practice 4-H teaching techniques.
  • Invest your time, energy and spirit.
  • Focus on helping youth develop and learn.
  • Be a strong, positive role model.