4-H Camps and non- 4-H camps often find it difficult to secure counselor training, especially in Archery and Rifle disciplines because counselors are not available until the start of the camp season. Coupled with timing, NYS law requires that rifle counselors possess National Rifle Association (NRA) certification. 4-H Shooting Sports has offered training in the recent past to accommodate camps. A series of courses will be offered in the coming weeks in preparation for the 2008 camping season. However, our nationally trained instructors are not able to accommodate a workshop in each camp. We try to rotate locations as much as schedules permit.

Archery

The source and curriculum for Archery Counselor Training is not specified. 4-H Shooting Sports offers a modified 4-H Volunteer Instructor Workshop that is especially designed for camp environments. This six hour program is taught by instructors who possess National 4-H Shooting Sports certification and qualifications with the focus on safety, techniques and youth development. Dick and Glenda Smullen, our Key Archery Instructors, were members of Camp Sacandaga’s staff before it closed. 4-H Shooting Sports does not charge for this certification and all who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion. Individual camps may charge for lunch.

June 7, Delaware County: John T. Hannum and Camp Shankitunk will be hosting this workshop. Contact John for details or to register: jth44@cornell.edu; 607-865-6531.

July 2, Cortland County: Sid McEvoy is the contact for this workshop. The training will take place at Camp Owata. Contact Cortland County for details: scm6@cornell.edu; 607-753-5220.

Rifle

4-H Shooting Sports Instructor and NRA Certified Trainer Jack Mazur will conduct this course Since Jack is also a veteran 4-H Volunteer/Instructor, he incorporates many of the basics of 4-H youth development into his training sessions. There is a fee for the NRA Rifle Courses plus local charges for meals. The instructor or host site will provide the cost information.

June 23 & 24, Saratoga County: Contact Jack Mazur at 518-885-8767 to register or email Jack at jmazur@nycap.rr.com for additional details.

4-H Shooting Sports offers these workshops as part of our overall program. If you have any questions about specific sites please contact them directly. For general information regarding these trainings please contact Bill Schwerd, CCE Saratoga County at wms4@cornell.edu or by phone at 518-885-8995.