Coles County Shooting Sports clubs receive grant to enhance youth programming

CHARLESTON — The Coles County 4-H Shooting Sports Special Interest (SPIN) Clubs recently received a generous grant from the NRA Foundation.

This funding has enabled the clubs to enhance their resources, expanding opportunities for youth participating in both the air rifle and archery clubs.

Through this grant, the clubs acquired a range of new equipment, including eight Daisy 599 Air Rifles (.177 caliber), $300 for Snowpeak Competition Air Pistols, and $100 toward a new bow rack.

Hayden and Cale Frantz, both of Mattoon, alongside the rest of the Air Rifle Club members recently put the new rifles to use during their first meeting of the season on Oct. 19, marking an exciting milestone for members.

"These new air rifles are a big improvement," said Zach Frantz, Shooting Sports Air Rifle leader. "The kids won't have to worry about finger pinches from pumping with each shot. In my opinion, they're safer too. No more awkward muzzle handling during pumping. We're excited for these rifles to have a long, productive life with the club."

In addition to using the new equipment, both clubs are launching a fundraiser to complete their goal of purchasing the remaining Snowpeak Air Pistols and a bow rack. Community support is key to sustaining these improvements and building on the NRA Foundation's initial contribution.

Community Content Coordinator