The sounds of summer are often a familiar mix: the buzz of cicadas, the splash of a pool, the cheer of a baseball game. Here at our range, we’ve added another sound to that list: the quiet thwack of a pellet hitting a bullseye. Our Summer Youth Air Rifle League is in full swing, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the progress, dedication, and sportsmanship on display!
This season has been a fantastic reminder that marksmanship is one of the most challenging and rewarding activities a young person can pursue. It’s far more than just learning to shoot straight. It’s a profound exercise in discipline and mental focus.
The Challenge: More Than Meets the Eye
Anyone who has tried to hold a rifle steady and align the sights on a distant target knows it’s a true test of patience. Our young athletes are learning to control their breathing, steady their nerves, and quiet their minds. They are discovering that the biggest challenge isn’t the distance to the target, but the space between their own ears. It requires a level of concentration and self-control that can be tough to master, but watching them rise to the occasion week after week is truly inspiring.
The Reward: Seeing it All Click
And that’s what makes the rewards so sweet! You can see the moment it all comes together. The shot breaks cleanly, and a triumphant smile spreads across a young shooter’s face as they look through the spotting scope and see a tight, clean group in the center of the target.
The rewards go far beyond a good score. With every practice and match, these athletes are building a powerful set of life skills:

• Responsibility: They learn the immense importance of firearm safety and responsible handling.
• Patience: They understand that improvement takes time and consistent effort.
• Confidence: They see their hard work pay off in measurable results, building self-esteem that extends far beyond the shooting range.
• Sportsmanship: They learn to encourage their teammates and respect their competitors.

We want to give a huge round of applause to every single one of our young shooters for their hard work and positive attitudes. A special thank you also goes out to our dedicated coaches and parent volunteers who provide the guidance, safety oversight, and encouragement that makes this league possible.
As we head into the final weeks of the season, the energy is high. We can’t wait to see who comes out on top in our final matches and to celebrate everyone’s personal growth
Here’s to a strong and safe finish!