MARION, Ill.- Williamson County youth interested in learning more about shooting sports will have the opportunity to participate in the 2020 spring program. Through the program, youth learn marksmanship, the safe and responsible use of firearms, principles of hunting, archery and much more.

4-H Shooting Sports is a SPIN (special interest) club that meets regularly to learn about and practice shooting sports. The program teaches youth archery, pistol and shotgun. Youth can pick one or all of the disciplines 4-H offers. 4-H Shooting Sports clubs are founded on the principles of positive youth development. Youth should feel welcome in the program as they grow in leadership and independence while mastering shooting skills. 

The shooting sports coordinator is Donald Elliott. Additional instructors for the program include Phil Odel, Don Koster, Eric Castle, Michael Grey, Bob Burgess and Phil Lindberg. The activities of the program and the support of caring adult leaders provide young people with opportunities to develop life skills, self-worth and conservation ethics.

Archery shooting and safety is available for youth ages 8-18. Beginning Feb. 3, this club will meet each Monday from 6-7 p.m. in Carterville. Beginning Apr. 6, an introduction to pistol shooting will be offered to youth ages 10-18 each Monday from 6-7 p.m. in Marion. Beginning Apr. 7, an advanced shotgun course will be offered to youth ages 10-18 each Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. in Marion.

To participate in the shooting sports program, youth must be enrolled as 4-H members. To learn more about the program or to join Williamson County 4-H, contact Esther Waddy at (618) 993-3304.

News Source: Esther Waddy, (618) 993-3304, ewaddy@illinois.edu       

News Writer: Heather Willis (618) 357-2126, hdwillis@illinois.edu