Braxton County 4-H members once again have the opportunity to participate in 4-H shooting sports training. Andrew Long and Chad Smyth were recently certified in 4-H shooting sports to offer youth training in air rifle and air pistol. Additional volunteers are being recruited to offer training in muzzle-loader and archery.
The 4-H Shooting Sports program teaches youth the basics of safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment. The program promotes high standards of safety, sportsmanship and ethics; helps youth improve their marksmanship; and strengthens families by encouraging lifelong participation in this fun recreational sport.
The first workshop was held November 13 at the Mid-State Archers building on Airport Road. Nineteen 4-H members attended the workshop and are learning the basics of air rifle. Youth who are interested in participating in Braxton County 4-H Shooting Sports must have passed their 8th birthday before June 30, 2023 up through high school. Participants must enroll in 4-H at https://4h.zsuite.org/ When selecting a club, choose “Braxton County 4-H Shooting Sports.” If youth want to participate in community clubs, they can choose that option as well. While 4-H projects aren’t required to participate in shooting sports, youth can select projects if they choose.
Practices are scheduled for Mondays at 6:00 p.m. at Mid-State Archers – the next practice is November 27. Equipment for practices is limited, but Braxton County 4-H volunteers are working to secure additional equipment. Thanks to the Braxton County Rotary and the Sutton Moose Lodge 825, new air pistols have been ordered for the program so we can offer training in that discipline. An NRA grant has been submitted for additional equipment as well. We hope to see the program grow and flourish over the next few years.
For more information about the Braxton County 4-H Shooting Sports program, please contact Debbie Friend WVU-Braxton County Extension Agent, 304-765-2809 or Debbie.Friend@ mail.wvu.edu