Twelfth Precinct's monthly Youth
Program was founded in the Spring of 1998, and now has a roster of
around 80 participating youngsters and young adults. 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 and air riflery in an
environment that stresses safety and ethics.
If you haven't yet given it a
try, come on out to the next event -- the Youth Program normally starts the
fourth Sunday in April and is held every month thereafter up to and
including October. Youth events are
normally held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
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 soda and hot dog, we usually
break into two groups, one going to the archery range and the other
to the air rifle range.
At the ranges, various reactive
targets are used (balloons, spinners, silhouettes, or even animal
crackers) to keep interest high. Then the two groups switch
locations so that everyone who so desires gets a turn at both
archery and air rifle shooting. Or, if you really like archery, for
example, you can participate in archery all afternoon!
Our five year-olds will often start breaking balloons after about 15
minutes of practice. Club sharp shooters beware -- you will have
some future competition!
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.
The Youth Program activities and
all necessary equipment are provided to the public at no cost. We
would like to thank Frank Pleasant at Wheeler's Hardware in Deale,
MD for his outstanding generosity in support of our youth. We
highly recommend your patronage of his store. 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, please
contact Bill Hoover at 443-223-5153.
