We Believe
Human growth and development is the primary goal of the 4-H Shooting
Sports program.
Shooting Sports are 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 tract and
field. It is nearly unique in being a lifetime sport.
Shooting Sports attract new audiences to 4-H and created 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
lifelong 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.
(top
of page)
Shooting Sports include:
● Archery
● Hunting and Wildlife
● Air Rifle
● Shotgun
Each discipline teaches safety, concentration, self-discipline,
self-confidence, goal-setting, decision-making and courtesy as the 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.
(top of page)
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.
(top of page)