Twenty-four years ago, my seven-year-old daughter walked up to me and said “Daddy, I want to shoot archery in 4-H. How can that happen?” I would have never believed that simple statement and request would start me on the path to becoming the Program Coordinator for the National 4-H Shooting Sports program.

Growing up on our family farm near Waco, Nebraska, I was raised in a family that encouraged and developed my love of the outdoors from an early age. This upbringing instilled a deep appreciation and respect for nature, wildlife, and the values of hard work and dedication.

After college, I became involved in county government where I served roles as Zoning Administrator, County Administrator, and County Commissioner. My professional journey also led me to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I worked in developing programs focused on outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, and shooting sports. The goal was to get families and individuals outside and understand the importance of spending quality time outdoors, fostering a connection with nature, and promoting responsible stewardship of our natural resources.

My involvement with 4-H Shooting Sports started twenty-four years ago at a local level where I helped start shooting sports clubs, served on the 4-H Council and Extension Board. I also became a state shooting sports instructor in four disciplines. My involvement with National 4-H Shooting Sports began in 2013. Since then, I have held various key roles, including seven years as a national committee member, chief range officer for two disciplines at the national championships, and a national instructor in three disciplines. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the positive impact these programs have on positive youth development.

The National 4-H Shooting Sports Program is the only 4-H program that requires instructors and leaders to attend and complete a certification workshop that provides a minimum of nine hours of instruction in each specific discipline and a minimum of three hours of instruction in teaching youth development, life skills, and risk management. The national program officially started in 1980 and positive youth development is at the core. There are nine disciplines that include archery, coordinator, hunting & outdoor skills, muzzleloading, pistol (air and smallbore), rifle (bb-gun, air, and smallbore), shotgun, and western heritage. Participants not only learn about safe and proper use of firearms and archery equipment, but also develop essential life skills such as critical thinking, personal safety, teamwork, leadership, empathy, and goal setting.

I have a deep love and passion for 4-H Shooting Sports which is why the transition to my current role as Program Coordinator in late 2023 marked a significant milestone for me. One of my responsibilities is the recruitment, retention, and engagement of volunteers who play a vital role in delivering impactful experiences to 4-H youth. By working with partners and donors, I plan to raise funds for national instructor training, develop state 4-H shooting sports coordinator professional development and training opportunities, support for the national championships, and expand and support the National 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassador program.

I believe that not only is 4-H shooting sports a positive youth development program, but it is also a positive person development program. I have experienced and seen the difference and growth that happens with youth and adults in the program. The impact extends beyond just shooting and outdoor activities. It fosters a sense of community, camaraderie, and mentorship among participants, volunteers, and supporters. This sense of belonging is crucial in developing confident, caring, contributing citizens of good character.

My vision for the 4-H Shooting Sports Program is rooted in the belief that every person, young and young at heart, deserves the opportunity to discover their potential, cultivate essential life skills, and contribute positively to their communities.

The program will empower participants to strive for excellence in their discipline by creating an environment where they can set goals, develop skills, and achieve success while fostering a lifelong passion in shooting sports. This includes developing essential life skills which are crucial to success both on and off the shooting range. Through engaging experiences, with a caring adult, participants will have the skills needed to thrive.

Inclusivity and diversity are fundamental in our program. I will continue to create and promote an environment where every individual, regardless of background or ability, feels welcomed and valued. This will help to build and strengthen our shooting sports family.

Having participants recognize and understand the role of shooting sports in nature and conservation is important. Instilling a deep appreciation for our shooting sports and hunting heritage by inspiring participants to become advocates will help ensure these opportunities for future generations.

Developing a collaborative network of passionate individuals and organizations working together is important to support and enhance the program. Through partnerships, outreach opportunities, and resources, we can expand our impact, reach new audiences, and create meaningful experiences for participants.

I am dedicated to improvement, innovation, and collaboration with stakeholders at all levels. Together we can create a world where every young person can thrive, grow, and make a difference through the transformative power of the 4-H Shooting Sports Program while still staying true to the core principles that have made the program a beacon of excellence in youth development.

You can learn more about 4-H Shooting Sports at https://4-hshootingsports.org/, or contact Scott Stuhr at coordinator@4-hshootingsports.org or (402) 643-0704.