4-H isn’t just sewing and livestock anymore. The Butler County 4-H program offers a variety of clubs and activities for youth, one of which is the Butler County 4-H Archery Project.
Youth meet weekly to practice their archery skills and prepare for competitions. They have six-week courses, with a break in the summer.
“It is geared toward target shooting,” said Fred Becker, assistant project leader. “We just give them what we can as far as (knowledge of ) how to shoot.”
They also work on safety skills, and youth must go through two orientation classes, including the general shooting safety course and one specific to archery before they can begin.
Two of the members are Becker’s daughters, Alli and Mandi.
Alli wanted to give it a try so they bought her a bow. Mandi also got involved.
Others had different reasons for trying out the sport.
“My grandparents bought me a bow for Christmas one year and I thought it would be fun,” said Chance Lopez.
Clay Hoker also is involved in the project.
“It’s fun shooting stuff,” he said. Hoker is looking to go more toward deer hunting.
Fred Becker pointed out it takes a lot of concentration and girls are often better at it than boys.
“And it improves patience,” Lopez added.
Recently the some members of the group traveled to Great Bend for a Barton County competition, where several received medals.
From these competitions, participants can qualify for the national level competition.
For more information on the archery club, contact the Butler County 4-H office at 321-9660.
El Dorado, Kan. —
