4-H Shooting Sports Recap For 2024

Walton County Team 1 was the best-finishing team at the April 26-28 State BB Tournament.

Beginning in January and going into March, thousands of kids from elementary age up to seniors in high school compete in the 4-H Project S.A.F.E. program. From archery to shotguns and even .22 rifles, kids are introduced to these sports, and a lot of them shoot better than seasoned adults.

The state indoor archery match Jan. 19-20 kicked-off the season and was a forerunner for what would prove to be a season of growth.

“When all five flights for the State Indoor Match filled, we knew 2024 was off to a running start,” said Georgia 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinator Craven Hudson. “All matches saw double-digit percentage growth for the 2024 season. “The .22 Rimfire match was full, even when we added another relay. We are likely going to move to a larger range in 2025!”

With growth comes a need for more volunteers, a factor that Craven isn’t concerned about at the moment.

“We knew 2024 was going to be special when we trained a record number of volunteers to become GA 4-H Shooting Sports Certified Coaches in each discipline we offer,” said Craven. “We even added a new discipline, Hunting Skills, as a pilot.

“Growth is always good. Most importantly, youth are building relationships with their peers and caring adult leaders. Belonging is an essential element for positive youth development, and Georgia 4-H provides that safe place of acceptance and growth. Better skills with archery equipment and firearms is an added bonus.”

Below are the results from the 2024 4-H Shooting Sports season. Enjoy as we celebrate their successes and what 4-H is accomplishing.

For more on the 4-H Project S.A.F.E. program or to learn how to get involved in 4-H, call your county extension office, or go to www.georgia4h.org/safe.