Targeting STEM through 4-H Shooting Sports

Targeting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) in education started to become a mainstream in American schools from about 2001 to 2005, and some speculate as early as 1985 (Education Week Archives, 2015). Naturally, 4-H being at the forefront of research based science education, and positive youth development (PYD) started to implement STEM into their programming.

4-H Shooting Sports, a major project area in the program became popular in the 1980’s, because it is a quintessential example of 4-H’s “Learning By Doing” approach. In addition, 4-H Shooting Sports has a unique ability to attract and retain teens of both genders. The major disciplines (sports) within the program include archery, rifle, shotgun, black powder and hunting.

From the inception of the program and to this day 4-H Shooting Sports instructors are taught to primarily teach safety, but also taught how to provide PYD activities with an academic focus including:

• To increase the knowledge, skills, competencies, attitudes, literacy and interest of youth in Science 
• To increase the number of 4‐H youth pursuing post‐secondary education in Science, and 
• To increase the number of 4‐H youth pursuing careers in Science (B. Kwang, P. Brewer, Colorado State University, 2011)

A few examples of STEM in 4-H Shooting Sports include:

• General – Mechanics of propulsion and engineering design
• Archery – Energy stored and released, body mechanics
• Black Powder – Chemical reactions, technology evolution
• Rifle – Physics of flight and trajectory, human optics
• Shotgun – Mass, velocity and distance of flight
• Hunting – Wildlife biology, conservation

Whether on the range, in the field or classroom 4-H Shooting Sports gets kids involved in healthy, challenging, outdoor activities that not only stimulate their minds but also reinforce a healthy lifestyle. The project also supports team (pro-social) interaction as well as individual achievement, goal setting and evaluation. Florida is fortunate to have support to provide these activities, and UF/IFAS Extension in Brevard County is doing its best to implement them with the help of volunteers.

If you are interested in participating as a youth or volunteer, be sure to watch our events page or contact Gus Koerner for more information Tel: 321-633-1702, Ext. 229 or email: gkoerner@ufl.edu.

gus

On My Honor

When I was 11 years old the only thing I knew of or cared about God was the word itself.  I knew He was important, “God” was a big deal, but had no inkling of more.  I was 11!  In Boy Scouts we sang a song that would later have a profound effect on my life.  I can still sing it to this day – verbatim.

Back Row: Karl and Gus Koerner
Front Row: Charles Buck and David Sturdivant
about 1975

My life priorities in 1970 were 1) being acceptably popular, staying unnoticed at age 11 is a good thing.  2) girls – especially Lisa  from a distance, 3) football, and 4) Boy Scouts.  I loved Scouts.  We did cool things, and I had a Dad that participated with me (a little too much in my opinion).  To his credit I think he tried to keep a distance and tried to let me have a parent-less experience.  We camped, went on canoe trips, hiked in the woods, caught snakes, started fires and shot guns.  What more could a kid want?

In Scouting at the time, they weren't ashamed to say the word God.  After all, it’s still part of our nation isn't it? - In God We Trust and all.  It was the 1970’s and things were different then.  Mentioning God was acceptable in public.

At the weekend campfires which I either participated in or lead we always sang this song at closing, which I would now call a hymn.  It’s called On my Honor, and here it is…

On My Honor
by Harry Bartelt 
On my honor, I'll do my best, to do my duty to God.
On my honor, I'll do my best, to serve my country as I may.
On my honor, I'll do my best, to do my good turn each day,
To keep my body strengthened and keep my mind awakened.
To follow paths of righteousness.
On my honor, I'll do my best.

When I now think of the song I can see plainly it contains the principles of Commitment, Discipleship, Patriotism, Service to Humanity, Personal Physical and Mental Health responsibility.  I’m sure a person could also attach other attributes, but I won’t here.  These are enough.  To this day, even though I may not live this song to its fullest, I certainly know and own the values of the song and do my best to uphold them.  I hope it is continuing in the Boy Scout program.

Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray. Proverbs 22:6

The photo above is when we went as a troop to Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base for three weeks.  I'm not quite 11 years old there, but we were still singing the Scout Hymn, "On My Honor".  I'd like to give a special tribute to David Sturdivant who was my best friend and passed away a few years ago.

I hope you'll share this with a friend.

-gus

Which NRA Basic Pistol class is for you?

Are you looking to purchase a new pistol? Would you like to learn about how to safely use, store, and clean a pistol? Are you interested in getting a concealed carry permit?  Perhaps you are the spouse of a gun enthusiast, or a parent and just want to make sure you can safely handle a firearm while others are gone.  The latter makes up the majority of my students.

If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider taking an NRA Basic Pistol or FIRST (Firearms Instruction, Responsibility, and Safety Training) Steps Pistol course, taught by an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor.

Follow are the similarities and differences between the two courses to help you decide which is the best choice for you.

Both the Basic Pistol and the FIRST Steps courses are introductory in nature and present the same type of material. In each class, instructors cover the NRA’s gun safety rules, pistol nomenclature and operation, ammunition, shooting fundamentals, cleaning, range rules, and continued opportunities for skill development. The format of the classes is very similar, beginning with a classroom portion before heading to the range for live-fire shooting exercises.

Basic Pistol is a 10-hour course where students learn about both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. FIRST Steps is only 3-4 hours long, and focuses on only one pistol action type (semi-automatic OR revolver, not both) and model (Beretta 96, etc). When choosing a course, make sure you take several factors into consideration – such as the action type of the gun you own or plan to purchase and your experience handling and shooting pistols.  If you are looking to learn about handling both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers, you may want to take the Basic Pistol course. If you already own a semi-automatic and want to learn more about your gun, then the FIRST Steps Pistol course may be right for you.

If you are still unsure about what class to take, ask the NRA Certified Instructor teaching the course to help you decide, or contact me.   Most instructors are very knowledgeable and eager to assist you. To get started, find a course in your area or learn more about NRA’s firearms training courses!

How young is too young to take a child shooting?

In the Florida 4-H Shooting Sports program, which is part of the National 4-H Shooting Sports program, a committee had determined that shooting sports begins for a child at 8 years old.  They have set the following guidelines, which most states have adopted:

• Age 8-10 (4-H Juniors) are allowed to learn archery and air rifle (pellet).
• Age 11-13 (4-H Intermediates) are allowed to learn virtually all of the rest of the shooting sports, including rifle (small bore or .22 rimfire), black powder rifles and shotguns (muzzle loading) and shotgun.
• Age 14-18 are reserved some special privileges such as air pistol (not in Florida), but in other states they can learn high power rifle, high power pistol and crossbow.

There is a reason these guidelines have been put in place.  They weren't just concocted by some non-shooters who are trying to hold kids back.  On the contrary, the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee who set this standard is made up of some of the finest Educator/Shooters in the country, with representation on the committee from the NRA and industry.

This past weekend I had a great time teaching my 8 year old grandson Gavin how to shoot a black powder rifle, and since it was not a 4-H program, I was okay with the laws and liabilities of the situation.  Prior to going, I was not quite sure how he would handle it.  Once or twice before I taught him the basics or air rifle handling in the backyard, so this was quite a few steps up in complexity and power.  He did very well to make a long story short, but that is because his Papa Gus helped him every step of the way, quizzing him on safety, parts and procedure the whole time.  Was I able to shoot too?  Of course I was.  Utilizing the Coach-Pupil method of teaching, I had him coach me, just as I had him - every step of the way, reinforcing his knowledge gain.  The other part that I was concerned about, and was not sure until I tried it, was using the Caldwell Lead Sled to help him make his shots.  This wonderful tool took almost all of the recoil of the gun away, but allowed him the flexibility to adjust his own sights, and shoot the gun himself.  I first learned about the Lead Sled at the 2009 Orlando SHOT Show, but they can be purchased at most stores that sell quality shooting gear.

I need to point out that even though these are the recommended ages for 4-H, they differ for other youth programs, and sometimes within the same program but state to state and county by county.  Check with your local youth leadership professional to be sure.  Some programs are more or less stringent, but I think they're about right.  No child is however too young to learn about the dangers and risks involved with guns and anything that shoots a projectile.  Kids are killed virtually every week with air rifles, airsoft and paintball guns.  They should all be respected, and every member of the household, oldest to youngest should know The 3 Always of 1) Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction, 2) Always keep the gun unloaded until you're ready to use it, and 3) Always keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.

There are some excellent articles and helps written on the Ages and Stages of kids.  My very first reference for this is the Univ. of Florida EDIS publications on teen development.  Another great site for this is HealthChildren.org.

Youth Shooting Sports, A Risky Business (Risk Management)

Even though my primary thoughts when writing this are geared toward the shooting sports, it is virtually the same for adults leading youth in any training, activity or exercise.  Risk is the chance of loss or injury.  In managing that risk, we can either assume, reduce, avoid or transfer it.

When we assume the risk we recognize your specific duties by liability, and there are 2 types of liability, criminal (duties toward community) and civil (duties toward individuals).  Within civil there is contractual and tort  (negligence).

We have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for our program, recognizing and controlling potential hazards.  We also are responsible for conducting activities in a .  Remember that those words, reasonable and prudent manner.  That's why it is so imperative that we follow the guidelines we've been given in our training from our organization, as well as the umbrella organization who wrote the curriculum for our training, like the National Rifle Association.

When leading our activities, our specific duties are to:

• Follow your instructors manual when teaching your discipline
• Properly plan ahead
• Provide adequate instruction
• Explain the risks to youth and parents
• Monitor for injury or incapacity
• Provide safe equipment
• Have a plan for emergencies
• Keep records
• Provide close supervision

We are also responsible for developing a Risk Management Plan, or using one that has been provided by our sponsoring organization.  A good plan will include the following points: Goals, Staffing/ Supervision, Insurance, Record Keeping System, Emergency procedures, Equipment Handling/ Inspections, Facility Inspection and perhaps more.  If you are sponsored by a government organization, more than likely they will require you to follow an Affirmative Action, providing equal access to all.

I have just touched the tip of the iceberg with risk management in this short article.  The very best source for protecting yourself and your participants will be your sponsoring organization.  Any quality organization will have all their ducks in a row on this topic.  For further information and a good sample plan for 4-H, which could be adapted to any youth organization is from the University of Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports program, and U of N 4-H Risk Management Plan. It expands upon what I have written today.

NSSF Urges Support of Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Act in Senate

This article appeared today from the National Shooting Sports Foundation...

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, is encouraging all sportsmen, gun owners and firearms enthusiasts to contact members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works today and urge them to support the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Support Act (S. 1249 / H.R. 3065). This bi-partisan legislation will give states greater flexibility in using their Pittman-Robertson.  (Money received from fishing and hunting licenses, guns and ammo)

A recent survey by the Responsive Management Company has shown that the biggest obstacle to participation in hunting and the shooting sports is access....

 In addressing this concern, the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Act will not only help sportsmen and target shooters, but wildlife and conservation efforts as well. Active participation in hunting and the shooting sports means increased production of firearms and ammunition....

By allowing the states more latitude in determining how excise tax dollars are used to enhance and develop public shooting facilities, wildlife conservation funding will increase....

Read the entire article 

Photo credit above: Crook County School District, NJROTC 2007.

Brevard County Extension Partners With FWC for Advanced Archery Instruction

Seventeen states in the US now require a certification in bow hunting in order to participate in their archery hunts. Florida and others are considering the same requirement. This certification is in addition to the conventional Hunter Safety course now offered. What that means is that when Florida bow hunters go to anyone of the participating states such as Alaska, Vermont or Maine, they will not be able to hunt without showing certification in advanced archery. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) now offers this certification, and several University of Florida Extension Offices offer (or will) this in partnership with FWC, including Brevard.

The reason this training is so important, even though not at this point required in Florida, is that it reinforces basic safety guidelines specific to archery that will help prevent accidents, reinforce ethical decision making, fundamental skills, techniques and tackle. According to the National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) almost 90% of bowhunters hunt from elevated stands. Of those 10-37% report having accidents, with 25% of those being seriously injured. Using the teaching materials developed by the NBEF, students learn in hands-on approach topics including tree stand safety as well as equipment preparation and survival techniques.

Initially this class in Brevard will be offered to young archers through the 4-H Youth Development Shooting Sports Program, but will open up to the general public in the spring of 2012. For more information, contact Gus Koerner at 633-1702, ext. 229 or email gkoerner@ufl.edu.

Florida 4-H State Muzzle Loading Rifle Tournament, 2011

February is a beautiful month in central Florida, and on this particular day, (Feb.5) the conditions were perfect, about 70 degrees, for a day at the range shooting "black powder guns".  I quote those words because I believe all of the shooters were using synthetic black powder that day.  This was an important day for six shooters and their coaches because it was the Florida 4-H State Muzzle Loading Tournament.  Other than just testing the shooters skill for pride and bragging rights, this particular match determines which senior 4-H'ers will be selected to go to the National Invitational this year in San Antonio, Texas.

The participants included two shooters from Brevard County, two from Indian River County, and two from Okeechobee County.  They all did very very well at each of the 5 events which were 50 yard bulls-eye, off-hand and bench rest, 50 yard silhouette, two 25 yard novelty targets and the knowledge test "Skill-A-Thon".  There was a total possible score of 50 points per target and 130 points for the academic portion.  If you've never participated in a Muzzle Loading Skill-A-Thon, you've missed a challenging and fun opportunity.  Laid out on the table are at least one firearm, and the contents of a Possibles Bag such as ball starter, capping tool and spare flint.  On our table were about 30 different items and the youth were under a three minute time limit to properly label all of the components.

After the shooting we went straight to the awards ceremony, which was a good one!  Not only did we have ribbons for each shooter and a few plaques, but the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association gave copies of their Muzzle Blast magazine and a pin for all, the black powder shooters at the Titusville Rifle and Pistol Club (TRPC) gave shooting gifts to each of the kids and the Brevard County 4-H, Mosquito Lagoon 4-H Muzzleloaders, an NMLRA chartered club, gave old fashioned fixed grain finger chargers to each shooter from Track of The Wolf.

Many thanks to all the parents and coaches who helped prepare and put on this event such as Sylvain Roberge, Lars Lutton and Don Richards for running the line.  Lori Menendez for administrative help.  TRPC for hosting us.  The NMLRA for the gifts and Chris Hodgdon of Hodgdon Powder Company for their donations of powder for the shooters.

County Extension Teaches Hunter Safety

The University of FL / IFAS / Brevard County Extension in partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will be teaching local Hunter Safety Classes, monthly, at the Titusville Rifle and Pistol Club in Mims, FL.

Extension has a rich history teaching and consulting in agriculture, family and consumer science, horticulture, and natural resource management for the home owner and industry. The Brevard 4-H program has had youth shooting sports since the early 1990’s, so reaching out to the community with Hunter Safety education is a natural progression.

The Hunter Safety curriculum being used is written by FWC. The primarily taught Internet-based Hunter Safety Course allows the student to learn a majority of the knowledge portion of the course via distance learning. The remainder of the course is covered in a 4-hour classroom setting, written test and a 3-hour range test. Extension’s involvement with Hunter Safety Education allows students to learn of similar programs currently taught by Extension, and provides additional opportunities for families to participate in 4-H shooting sports and to hone their skills as safe outdoors men and women, while promoting home firearm safety. For more information and dates and times, please call Gus Koerner at 321-633-1702 x229.

My Muzzle Blasts Editorial, Jan. 2010

Muzzle Blasts is the official publication of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association. In this month's issue, Letters to the Editor I wrote a column promoting the use of GPS receivers by all hunters and outdoors men, even the most traditional ones.


Here is an excerpt...Dear Editor, (Mr. Eric), I call this Old Tech Meets New Tech... As a group of dedicated gun enthusiasts, typically appreciating more the low-tech nature of the sport than the high-tech, we may often disregard or even scoff carrying and using a GPS receiver, and (God forbid) perhaps even putting it in our possibles bag next to our powder flask and nipple pick. The reasons that we should seriously consider using a GPS receiver is two-fold, safety and convenience. Gary’s reasoning, to find the remote rendezvous location from another city is a good one, but we should also consider other positive implications of knowing precisely where you are (or are going). I have to also mention before I go on, that the old fashioned way of map and compass will never be lost by the wayside of navigation, and will always be more reliable than any electronic device...

At the end of the article, I issued this challenge: PS. The first reader to email me my office street name, I’ll send them an official replica of an 1837 Bank Token cast of solid pewter I bought from Track of the Wolf. I am at GPS Coords. (DMM): 28° 21.579'N, 80° 46.884'W. 

Congratulations to Jerry Boyle, Dave Schreck, Rick Buxton and Jim and Annetta Holmes for being the first to reply! Dave Schreck was the winner, but they will all receive a token (if I have enough!).  Other winners of either finding the location or giving it their best shot were: Steve Pressman, Brad Bennett, Pete Garrett.  Sorry, I'm out of tokens now.

Allow Kids To Screw Up

When we are teaching children, sometimes it seems we want to make them do it the "right way" or not at all. Learning is a process.

Allow youth to do the activity- don’t be too quick to correct them, show them the right way, or do things for them. Of course, if you see a danger threat, intervene immediately. The point is, some of the most important life lessons are learned by making mistakes. Adults tend to want to rescue kids from adversity. When we do that, we rob them of some of the most powerful learning experiences.

This is just one of the principles we teach in the 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Classes, but it is applicable to any discipline or subject matter, to other kids or your own. Allowing them to fail in small degrees will set up those teachable moments, like I discussed in a previous blog, 12/2/09 Teachable Moments.

Spotlight: HAVA, Honoring our Vets.

A few weeks ago late at night, watching the Outdoor Channel, one of the shows featured HAVA, Honored American Veterans Afield. As a shooting sports educator I was interested, as the son and brother of veterans I was pleased, but as the Father of an active US Marine I was riveted and moved at this organization’s service. Photo Credit: HAVA

HAVA is an incredible organization to raise awareness and assist disabled veterans with the healing process through active participation in the outdoor sports. - As the number of injured men and women returning from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan grew, members of the firearms industry initiated a non-profit partnership called HAVA to aid disabled soldiers as they transition to their lives back in the United States. The ultimate goal is to increase their confidence and hope for the future by reconnecting with their love of the outdoors and the American traditions of hunting and firearms. Each HAVA veteran is a national hero that has earned our respect and support through valorous service in defense of our way of life.

HAVA has also been featured in on TV in shows such as Shooting Gallery, American Rifleman, Shooting USA, and the Glenn Beck Show. It has also been featured in print, in some the NRA publications.  Please get to know HAVA and offer any support you can possible give. Our disabled service men and women deserve this. Thank you HAVA!

Teachable Moments

A "teachable moment" is THE teaching opportunity, right at the instant it needs to be delivered. This teaching tool is applicable for any subject matter, students of any age. For example, on the archery range regarding finger guards - you can talk about them prior to shooting, "how important they are, blah blah blah", but why take away valuable shooting time with lecture. If the child shoots without finger guards, no harm will come other than potentially sore fingers. With no glove or finger tab you'll be able to see if the string is properly positioned, then after 10 shots or so, ask how the child's fingers are. If the shooter says they're kind of sore, then introduce him to the glove. They'll get it and never forget. The trademark of every effective educator is to devise and use teachable moments.

These teachable moments can't be done with most mandatory safety rules. There has to be some basic knowledge imparted so as to maintain order and range safety, but the more mundane - although very important topics can be taught one at a time, as the situation arises.

Final note. This is not a unique thought, but one of the many valuable tools imparted to all instructors in the 4-H shooting sports program.

You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out, Part 2 – Archery

…this doesn’t have to be true or even a threat this holiday season, if you’re considering getting your child or grandchild a bow and arrow. The best advice I can give you on buying your first bow is DO NOT buy a used bow from a neighbor, pawn shop or online, unless you know exactly what you’re getting and why. When you buy a bow for your youngster, you will need follow-up help. Ask yourself, will this vendor (online or otherwise) be able to provide me with expert advice after the sale? You see, bows and arrows are like shoes; they either fit or they don’t, and when they do fit, they are outgrown over a relatively short period. You can save a lot of money and heart ache, if you get your child fitted for a bow from someone who knows what they’re doing – a professional. The wrong size or improperly fitted bow may very likely cause your lad to become frustrated or discouraged and not enjoy shooting at all.

Things you need to know to buy your first bow. This is very simplified, but is a good enough explanation to help you make an intelligent decision. Notice I have not mentioned a compound or a traditional bow yet. I will.

Bow size: Your child has a wingspan, finger tip to finger tip with arms outstretched. Take that number in inches, and divide by 2.5 Example – Billy has a wingspan of 48 inches. 48 divided by 2.5 equals a draw length of 19.2 (or 20) inches. Always round up. A knowledgeable bowman will measure or ask for the draw length from the get-go. This measurement will affect what size bow you get, and the arrows you buy.

Bow Poundage: If a bow is a “20 pounds”, that means it requires 20 pounds of force to pull back. In my experience, the average eight year old child can draw back 15 to 25 pounds. In five shooting sessions, even over one week, that child’s strength and technique can increase to the point where even the lightest bow is becoming less challenging. Keep your new shooter challenged, but not overly so.

Compound verses traditional: Traditional bows include recurve and long bows. Compound bows have the wheels on each tip. Training Wheels! Some of us joke (tee hee hee). There is much controversy out there on which one to buy. Debates go on with this topic just as much as religion or politics. As a rule, in my humble opinion, traditional bows help reinforce better technique, where compound bows will help a kid hit the bulls-eye quicker. The reason this is so, is because most new compound bows come with sights similar to a gun, and the shooter no longer is using his/her instincts to aim the bow. These sights act as a crutch for some. Traditional bows will be useful over a broad draw length range, compound bows are not, BUT most of the major manufacturers are building bows that have an adjustable draw length over a range. Check your vendor for this. (Photo caption: the Genesis bow, by Matthews pictured is one of many fine bows to teach introductory archery in programs such as NASP. Even though it has wheels, it has the feel and characteristics of a traditional.)

As I mention in Part 1 of this series, get to know groups in your community who teach the sport and can help your child learn the fundamentals from the beginning. A good archery coach will immediately start teaching you and your shooter safety and the Nine, Ten or Eleven (depending on the organization) Steps to the 10 Ring.

Archery is more than just for fun. It can train that future bow hunter or next Olympian, but it also can potentially getting some kids in serious trouble. Adult supervision is always required for kids shooting bows, not just as a good precaution but in some cases, it is the law. Be Aware - modern bows and arrows, even the least expensive ones can easily kill a domestic pet or cause serious property damage. On the flip side again, shooting successfully requires a child to take multiple, specific steps in order, the exact same way, every time, time and time again. Similarly to learning to play a piano, the steps required in shooting can help a child scholastically, and build self confidence unlike many other activities. Make archery a family activity that you each can use to make memories for a lifetime.

“You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!” Part 1 – Air Rifles

…this doesn’t have to be true or even a threat this holiday season, if you’re considering getting your child or grandchild an air rifle. When I say “air rifle,” this also includes the whole family of pneumatic firearms, which also take in pellet and BB guns. The first and foremost safety rule is, Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction. If this were the only rule that people followed, there would never be an accident! Also see my blog, Oops, Sorry About Your Cat.

There are many companies out there that market and sell air rifles, the primary ones most advertized include Crosman , Daisy and Gamo. Within those companies, you have probably a hundred to choose from, ranging from $30 to well over $500, but be sure of this – all of these companies make fine equipment. Which one to buy? That’s a great question, but to answer it you need to ask yourself why you are buying the rifle for your youngster?

Air rifles are for competition, training, hunting, recreational plinking, and for potentially getting some kids in deep trouble. Adult supervision is always required for kids shooting air rifles, not just as a good precaution but in some cases, it is the law. Be Aware - modern air rifles, even the least expensive ones can easily kill a domestic pet or cause serious property damage.

Now to the point of really helping you to buy the right one for your young Olympian or hunter to be… 1) do your research before you buy. Each of the companies I mention have very informative web pages, and may give you a discount if your child belongs to a bona-fide youth shooting sports program. 2) Look around locally for youth programs such as scouts or 4-H. They can provide shooting opportunities for your child with air rifles and some of them may allow you to try some of their guns prior to purchase, or inform you of special purchasing options to save you money. In addition, they will more than likely host or attend competitive events which may require a specific gun, or one with special requirements. 3) I would consider this most important – consider this an opportunity to have a fun, safe, healthy outdoor hobby with your young family member so as to make memories and establish safe habits for a life time.

Sneaky Prophylactic Education

Talk about perking the ears up on the administration! Sneaky Prophylactic Education in short, in this context, is using shooting sports as the hook to grab the child’s attention, so as to be able to impart knowledge, modify behavior, and ultimately touch the life of the youngster to help them grow into a responsible caring adult. My old friend Dr. Ron Howard of Texas A&M explains it well:

I think you've heard several things. When most youth programs go out to work with shooting, what they are doing is sneaky prophylactic education.

I want you to understand what I mean. Prophylactic means preventative. Our objective through 4-H is to educate the kid. It's sneaky because we sell all of the educational package with fun. When it comes to those parents, it's doubly sneaky prophylactic education because they think that they must be there because only the kid is there.

They don't know that we're going to recruit them and put them to work at the same time. They don't know that we're going to teach them the same stuff that the kids are being taught and therefore try to recruit them as well. Being a spectator stinks. - excerpt taken from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Reaching Out to Existing Youth Organizations, 2005 by Dr. Ron Howard, Jr. Extension 4-H and Youth Development Specialist, Texas Agricultural Extension Service.

Make a difference in the life of a kid by taking them outdoors. They’ll benefit on many levels.

Upholding Our 2nd Amendment, One Child at a Time

A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the People to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. – The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, adopted on December 15, 1791.

For those of you teaching kids like me in the shooting sports, remember that with every child you reach you are doing something for the greater good of this nation. Have you actually considered your ownership and possession of firearms a right and not a privilege? I must admit, I usually consider it the other way around – even though I know different. As a school child, I remember my teachers talking about our freedoms of religion and speech, but not once did one of them talk about our right to bear arms. Why not do you suppose? Typically those of us in the shooting sports circles talk about it freely among our friends, but perhaps not in the politically correct circles we are sometimes required to associate in. If we spoke about it more in public, the fear is being considered one of those “extremist wackos” probably. What a shame. The next time you teach our youth how to safely handle a firearm; I challenge you to not be shy in explaining to the kids, in terms they can understand that this is one of the rights our founding fathers created for us, that we need to protect.

Professional Shooter

I get paid to see that kids get a safe, fun and rewarding experience in the shooting sports. I guess by that definition of my job, you could say that I’m a professional shooting instructor. Technically its true, but something about the statement seems false. Perhaps it’s too good to be true. Don’t get me wrong, its not like I’m out there teaching defensive tactics or how to put a sniper round through the target at 1000 meters. It’s more like taking a covey of 8 year olds and making sure they don’t shoot each other’s eye out. I’m joking. It’s more than that. It is about fulfilling a kids basic need to squeeze the trigger or release the bow string to let that projectile fly, just like the heros they sometimes imagine to be. At the same time, I might be able to influence the child into becoming a better citizen or someday making wiser choices. Very rewarding.

Last night I skipped out on archery class so that I could attend the Jr. Air Rifle Class up North, which meets the same time. Although I was reluctant to miss archery, it was a good thing. The clubs are supposed to be run by volunteers, and when I’m there the leader lets me take over. I need to help them grow in independence, relying on the parents to step in. I also had to miss seeing my daughter shoot, but that's a good thing sometimes too as she acts differently when I watch. Reports of the meeting were that although things did not go as smoothly as usual, it was a good night anyway.

This is the my first posting...

I call myself a “regular Joe” because I think I am fairly typical of a lot of guys out there.


I’m the grandson of immigrants along with my five siblings, the child of parents growing up in suburbia, a parent of four great kids and the grandpa of four youngins’. I work hard for a living, knowing that while I’m at work I think about home and while at home I think about work. It seems I always need to be somewhere else. My Dad and brother served in the military. Of my children, one of my sons is a student and one is a US Marine. Of my daughters, one is a teacher and one is a student. My Step-daughters are jewels and one of my many many blessings.


Professionally I am an former NASA program manager, and a current government employee working with kids in youth development, teaching all of the shooting sports disciplines. In the program I developed, my volunteers and I teach approximately 1000 kids per year of every imaginable background. I owe my successes to the gifts I’ve received in building partnerships, relating with people (especially youth), a love of the outdoors, great mentors, and an understanding and loving wife. Even though I do not directly mention God. He is creator of all good things to whom I am grateful beyond words.  Listen to this podcast, Size: 1.5 mb, Time: 1:36.