Deadline for joining 4-H shooting sports clubs extended to April 17

4-H Shooting Sports Clubs are local youth clubs in most Ohio counties open to youth ages 9-18 who have an interest in learning safe and responsible firearms and archery shooting.

Club members learn about shooting sports by taking a "project" which may include rifle, pistol, shotgun, archery, muzzle loading, crossbow, hunting/wildlife, and living history. Each of these projects involves participating in several activities that focus on the safe, responsible, and proficient use of the implement being studied.

Members also learn about leadership, community service, and citizenship in a 4-H club. 4-H Shooting Sports Clubs and projects do not focus on competitive shooting, however informal competition can be part of each project.

The purpose is to teach life skills to 4-H youth through the shooting sports curriculum and activities that will enable boys and girls to reach their fullest potential as capable, caring and contributing citizens.

Eight basic disciplines are available: Archery, Crossbow, Hunting & Wildlife, Living History, Muzzleloading, Pistol, Rifle, and Shotgun Western Heritage. All disciplines are taught by 4-H Certified Instructors. Some advanced disciplines are available with the basic discipline prerequisites successfully completed. Most but not all counties have Shooting Sports Clubs, and some clubs do not offer all disciplines.

The usual deadline for joining most 4-H Clubs is April 1st each year. However, it has now been extended until April 17. Each club has approximately 10-12 meetings between February and August. Members are expected to attend most club meetings.

To learn more about 4-H Shooting Sports Clubs in Ohio, contact:

State Extension Program Coordinator
4-H Shooting/Fishing Sports
Phone: 740-286-4058
[email protected]
or contact your County Extension Office

Click here to find your local 4-H Club for activities and membership information.