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Hey, we all started with airguns somewhere. Mostly when we were still young. And for many of us it has been a lifetime’s interest. Now the Student Air Rifle Program (SAR) is bringing the sport of target shooting to school-aged youth in grades 4 through 12.
Developed by the Missouri Youth Sport Shooting Alliance (MYSSA), the SAR is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. It uses school-aligned units of study, teacher training, universal whistle commands, positive language, and standardized equipment to facilitate a safe introduction to the lifetime sport of target shooting to school-aged youth.
The success of the Student Air Rifle Program is shown by the fact that – to date – over 25,000 students have participated in SAR activities since its launch in 2016!
In addition, SAR recently completed its first in-person National Tournament in Festus, Missouri on October 26, 2024. Nearly 200 competitors from seven states traveling from as far away as Alaska to attend.
Now the SAR has announced the support of Umarex USA for our growth into Arkansas. That makes eleven states with participating schools and clubs. To support the SAR in their own state, Umarex USA will be donating 100 of the exclusive Embark rifles. In addition, the company will provide financial support for other costs to the first ten schools to incorporate the Student Air Rifle Program across Arkansas.
Below. Arkansas teachers and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission staff are trained in the first SAR BARI course held at Pangburn High School on September 5, 2024.
“This phenomenal support from Umarex is another step in the national expansion of Student Air Rifle Program and another great display of their dedication to the addition of shooting sports programs for student athletes throughout the country.” explained Jake Hindman, CEO, Student Air Rifle Program.
Arkansas Game and Fish has taken the role of coordinating agency in its own state. It will provide state-level management of instructors and tournaments, including training of instructors and other personnel. This is another of many education efforts for the agency to further the legacy of shooting sports and other outdoor activities.
“The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is committed to expanding our programs and creating new opportunities to promote safe shooting practices and educate our youth.” said Jose Jimenez, Chief of Recreational Shooting Sports, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. “Our involvement in SAR strengthens this commitment, and we aspire to be a positive influence in advancing shooting sports not only in Arkansas but also nationwide.”
For more information about the Student Air Rifle Program, visit Student Air Rifle Program. It’s a great way to get kids started in the interest we all love!
The post Now The Student Air Rifle Program Is Running In Eleven States appeared first on Hard Air Magazine.