Twelfth Precinct's monthly Young
Shooters Program has evolved since it was founded in the Spring of 1998. Ages
range from about 5 years to 16 years old, with nearly equal numbers
of girls and boys. Judging by their obvious enthusiasm, it is
evident that the program is meeting its goal of providing our young
people an opportunity to enjoy archery, air riflery and .22 rimfire
riflery in an
environment that stresses safety and ethics. Parents and
guardians can join in the fun, too!
Air
Rifle Range, September 2009
(Photo courtesy of Michael Bay)
If you haven't yet given
it a try, come on out to the next event!
Typically, we start each event
with safety instruction. Don't worry if you missed the earlier
sessions -- we can "catch you up" at any time and get you started.
After discussing safety and grabbing a hot dog and lemonade, we usually
break into three groups, going to the archery range, air rifle range,
and bullseye range.
At the ranges, various reactive
targets are used (balloons, spinners, silhouettes, or even animal
crackers) to keep interest high. Then the groups switch
locations so that everyone who so desires gets a turn at all of the
activities. Or, if a participant really likes archery, for
example, he or she can participate in archery all afternoon!
Our five year-olds will often start breaking balloons
on the archery range after about 15
minutes of practice. Club sharp shooters beware -- you will have
some future competition!
Young archers on Practice Range.
(Photos courtesy of Jim Conk)
We have kept the program
generally very informal. However, for those who are interested
in earning archery or marksmanship awards, we offer a program where
participants can earn patches, certificates, or medals at a variety
of skill levels and can progress at their own pace.
Note: We now have several
volunteers who are NRA-certified rifle instructors who love
to
work with members who wish to sponsor scouts and other groups!
The activities and
all necessary equipment are provided to the public at no cost. We
would like to thank Frank Pleasant at Wheeler's
True Value Hardware in the Chesapeake Landing Plaza,
Shadyside,
MD (phone/fax 410-867-2277)
for his outstanding generosity in support of our youth. We
highly recommend your patronage of his store.
Show your Club membership card to
receive a discount! We thank our own
Club members for their endorsement and financial support. And, we
especially thank our Club adult volunteers who so graciously give of
their time so that our young people can learn the joys and
responsibilities of our outdoor sports.
If you seek further information regarding the program
or wish to volunteer, please
contact
Program Leader Paul Behe at
twelfthyouth@gmail.com
or (240)695-3533.
