Hitting the Target with 4-H Archery

Florida 4-H Archery is offered by the University of Florida/IFAS Extension through the 4-H Youth Development program. It provides young people in Florida with the opportunity to learn and participate in the sport of archery while emphasizing safety, skill development, and sportsmanship.

Two girls with bows drawn back to shoot at archery target
Youth members practice every Saturday during archery season in Putnam County.

Educational Focus

Florida 4-H Archery is designed to provide youth with hands-on learning experiences in archery. Participants gain knowledge about equipment, safety procedures, and proper shooting techniques. Safety is a top priority in the program. Participants learn and adhere to strict safety rules and guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Youth with bows drawn back, ready to shoot.
Youth shoot their first practice shot at the Florida 4-H FITA competition.

Skill Development

The program aims to develop archery skills in participants, from basic techniques for beginners to more advanced skills for experienced archers. Participants have the opportunity to progress through different skill levels. The program is led by certified instructors who have received training in archery instruction and safety. These instructors guide participants in learning the fundamentals and advancing their archery skills.

Competitions and Events

The program offers opportunities for participants to compete in archery events and tournaments at local, state, and even national levels. These events allow participants to showcase their skills and sportsmanship.

Life Skills Development

In addition to archery skills, the program also emphasizes developing essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, goal-setting, and responsibility. Florida 4-H Archery provides opportunities for older youth to take on leadership roles within the program. This may include assisting with instruction, organizing events, and mentoring younger participants.

Boys and girls receiving ribbons at 4-H competition.
4-H archers receiving ribbons at Florida 4-H Field Archery competition.

Access to Resources

Participants in the Florida 4-H Archery program may have access to resources such as equipment, facilities, and educational materials to support their learning and skill development.

Youth 4-H archers with medals and archery leader.
Coach Tony and youth showing off medals after the Florida 4-H Indoor competition.

Putnam County 4-H Archery

Swamp Gator 4-H Archers of Putnam County is the local 4-H archery club. It has grown from 9 members in the 2021-2022 4-H year to 27 members this current year. Through the growth of the archery club, we have found support by doing a yearly archery competition fundraiser and a generous equipment grant worth over $4,300 from The NRA Foundation this past year. Putnam County 4-H is grateful for the opportunities provided for our youth through our dedicated 4-H club leaders, parent involvement, and generous grants such as the NRA grant we received.

If you would like to learn more about Florida 4-H archery, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office and speak with the 4-H Agent.

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Posted: October 24, 2023


Category: 4-H & Youth, UF/IFAS Extension,
Tags: 4-H, Archery, Putnam, Putnam County, UF/IFAS Extension, Youth


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