Oklahoma Youth Archery Programs: Build Confidence, Earn Scholarships, Compete Statewide
Discover all 4 archery disciplines, 7 governing bodies, and every bow type. Scholarships, mobile workshops, and loaner equipment available across Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas.
Archery is more than just a sport—it's a transformative experience for young people. Youth archery builds confidence, discipline, focus, and character while providing a safe, inclusive pathway to competition, scholarships, and lifelong skills.
Official 4-H Shooting Sports Partner | Certified Coaches | Loaner Equipment Available | 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Why Archery Matters for Youth Development
Archery isn't just a sport—it's a transformative experience that builds confidence, discipline, focus, and character. Here's what makes archery special for young people.
Builds Confidence
Every arrow released is a step toward mastery. Youth see immediate progress, celebrate small wins, and develop unshakeable self-belief that carries into every area of life.
Sharpens Focus & Discipline
Archery demands mental clarity and physical discipline. Youth learn to block out distractions, set goals, and execute with precision—skills that excel in school and beyond.
Develops Physical Strength
Archery builds core strength, upper body conditioning, and fine motor control. It's low-impact, inclusive for all fitness levels, and adaptable for youth with physical challenges.
Fosters Teamwork & Community
Whether competing individually or as a team, youth build lasting friendships, learn to support peers, and become part of a welcoming, inclusive community.
Opens Doors to Scholarships
Competitive archery is a pathway to college scholarships, NCAA opportunities, and national competitions. Red Dirt youth have earned scholarships to top universities.
Teaches Responsibility & Safety
Archery instills respect for equipment, awareness of surroundings, and a deep commitment to safety. These values shape responsible, thoughtful young adults.
Real Impact, Real Stories
"Archery changed my life. I went from shy and uncertain to confident and focused. Now I'm competing at the state level and have a scholarship offer from a top university." — Maya, Age 16
Read More Success StoriesHow to Get Started with Youth Archery
Starting your archery journey is simple. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, we'll guide you every step of the way—no equipment or experience required.
Register Online
Fill out our simple registration form. Tell us about your youth's interests, experience level, and any questions you have. Takes less than 5 minutes.
Start Registration →Attend Orientation
Join a free safety orientation (45-60 minutes) where we cover range rules, equipment basics, and answer all your questions. 100% of participants complete this step.
View Schedule →Get Fitted & Trained
Our certified coaches will fit your youth with loaner equipment and begin personalized training. No purchase required—we provide everything you need to start.
Learn About Equipment →Practice & Progress
Train with certified coaches, track progress, and build skills at your own pace. Most youth are competition-ready within 12-24 months.
Explore Training Levels →We Remove Every Barrier
70% of youth receive scholarships. Financial need is never a barrier.
Loaner bows, arrows, safety gear—all provided at no cost.
Mobile workshops bring training to your community (OK, TX, MO, AR).
Certified coaches with NRA, USA Archery, 4-H credentials.
Ready to Start Your Archery Journey?
Join 750+ youth who've discovered confidence, discipline, and opportunity through archery.
Questions? Call us at [Your Phone] or email [Your Email]
Explore All 4 Archery Disciplines
Red Dirt Shooting Sports offers comprehensive training in all major archery disciplines. Find the one that matches your interests and skill level.
Target Archery
The foundation of competitive archery. Shoot at stationary targets from fixed distances (18-70 meters) with precision and consistency.
What You'll Learn:
- Proper stance, grip, and release technique
- Distance estimation and scoring
- Mental focus and concentration
- Competition rules and etiquette
3D Archery
Shoot at 3D animal targets in outdoor courses. Combines target archery with hunting-style challenges and variable distances.
What You'll Learn:
- Hunting-style shooting techniques
- Distance judgment and trajectory
- Outdoor range navigation
- Bowhunting ethics and safety
Bowhunting
Learn the skills and ethics of hunting with a bow. Develop accuracy, field craft, and responsible hunting practices.
What You'll Learn:
- Hunting regulations and licensing
- Precision shooting at hunting distances
- Game animal behavior and field craft
- Ethical hunting practices
Field Archery
Shoot at targets on natural terrain with varying distances and angles. Combines target archery with outdoor adventure.
What You'll Learn:
- Shooting on slopes and uneven ground
- Long-distance accuracy (up to 100+ yards)
- Outdoor navigation and trail skills
- Environmental awareness
Bow Types We Teach
Each discipline uses different bow types. We provide loaner equipment and expert instruction for all styles.
Classic design, excellent for beginners and competition. Used in Olympic archery.
Modern design with mechanical advantage. Popular for hunting and 3D archery.
Traditional design, simple and elegant. Great for field archery and hunting.
Minimal equipment, pure technique. Challenges shooters to master fundamentals.
Official Governing Bodies
Red Dirt is affiliated with 7 major archery organizations, ensuring world-class coaching and competition opportunities.
Official U.S. Olympic archery organization
Youth development through archery
Collegiate archery championships
Field and 3D archery competitions
3D archery championships
Oklahoma state archery association
Civilian marksmanship programs
Not Sure Which Discipline is Right for You?
Our certified coaches will help you find the perfect fit. Start with target archery and explore from there.
Get Started TodayTraining Levels: From Beginner to Champion
Our structured training program meets youth where they are. Progress at your own pace with certified coaches guiding every step.
Beginner (Ages 8-12)
Build Your Foundation
Focus Areas:
- Safety fundamentals and range rules
- Proper stance, grip, and release
- Basic shooting technique
- Equipment familiarity
- Building confidence
Intermediate (Ages 10-16)
Refine Your Skills
Focus Areas:
- Advanced technique and consistency
- Discipline-specific training
- Mental focus and competition strategy
- Equipment optimization
- Regional competition prep
Advanced (Ages 13-18)
Pursue Excellence
Focus Areas:
- Elite-level technique and precision
- State and national competition prep
- College recruitment support
- Specialized coaching (1-on-1 available)
- Scholarship pathway guidance
How Progression Works
Assessment
Coaches evaluate your current skills and goals
Training Plan
Personalized plan tailored to your level
Practice & Feedback
Regular sessions with progress tracking
Advancement
Move to next level when ready
Youth Stay With Us
Our structured approach keeps youth engaged and progressing.
Multi-Year Retention
Youth stay engaged across multiple seasons
Beginner to Intermediate
Most beginners advance to intermediate level
Intermediate to Advanced
Majority of intermediate shooters reach advanced
Time to Competition
Most youth compete within 12-24 months
Meet Your Coaches
Red Dirt has 6+ certified coaches with credentials from USA Archery, 4-H, CMP, and more. All background-checked and trained in youth development.
Official Olympic archery coaching credentials
Youth development and character building expertise
Every 3 years, zero tolerance for disqualifying offenses
Annual youth protection training and skill development
From Beginner to Champion
See how youth progress through our training levels.
"I started as a complete beginner. Now I'm competing at the regional level and have scholarships offers from colleges."
— Sarah, Advanced Level (Age 16)
"The coaches made me feel confident from day one. I went from scared to shoot to winning my first local competition in 6 months."
— Marcus, Intermediate Level (Age 12)
"Red Dirt gave me the equipment, coaching, and scholarship I needed. Now archery is my path to college."
— Emma, Advanced Level (Age 17)
Which Level Are You Ready For?
Start at Beginner and progress at your own pace. Our coaches will guide you every step of the way.
Start Your JourneyScholarships & Financial Aid
Cost should never be a barrier. 70% of our youth receive scholarships or financial aid. If you need help, we've got you covered.
No Youth Left Behind
Financial need is never a reason to sit on the sidelines. We provide equipment, coaching, travel, and entry fees.
Simple Application
No complicated forms. Just tell us about your situation in a brief statement. We review rolling and notify in 2-4 weeks.
Flexible Eligibility
Ages 8-18, any income level. Free/reduced lunch? Receiving assistance? Simple need statement? You qualify.
What We Cover
Scholarships range from $1,000–$2,000 per youth per year and include:
Equipment
Bows, arrows, air rifles, pistols, safety gear, and all loaner equipment at no cost
Travel
Transportation to competitions, workshops, and training sessions
Program Fees
Registration, coaching, and competition entry fees covered
Competitions
Local, regional, and state competition costs fully covered
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and takes about 15 minutes.
Fill Out the Form
Basic information: name, age, parent/guardian contact, and which archery program interests you.
Tell Your Story
Write a brief statement (a few sentences) about why archery matters to you and your financial situation.
Optional Recommendation
A teacher, coach, or community leader can submit a brief recommendation (not required, but helpful).
We Review & Notify
Our board committee reviews applications rolling. You'll hear back in 2-4 weeks with a decision.
Who Qualifies?
If any of these apply to you, you likely qualify for a scholarship:
Automatically eligible if you receive free/reduced lunch at school
Receiving SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or other state/federal assistance
Simply fill out a need statement explaining your situation
No age restrictions. We serve youth from elementary through high school
Our Scholarship Impact
Scholarships change lives. Here's what we've accomplished:
Youth Receiving Aid
Nearly 3 out of 4 participants benefit from our scholarship program
Per Youth Annually
Average scholarship covers equipment, coaching, travel, and competition fees
Youth Served Annually
150+ direct participants, 600+ through mobile outreach across OK, TX, MO, AR
College Scholarships Earned
Multiple youth have earned NCAA and archery scholarships to college
Scholarship Success Stories
Real youth, real impact.
"Without the scholarship, I never would have tried archery. Now it's my passion and my path to college. Red Dirt believed in me when I didn't believe in myself."
— Jordan, Age 15
Now competing at state level with college recruitment interest
"My family couldn't afford equipment or coaching. The scholarship gave me everything I needed to compete and win. I'm so grateful."
— Aisha, Age 13
Won her first regional competition within 8 months
"Red Dirt's scholarship program didn't just give me a sport—it gave me confidence, friends, and a future I can believe in."
— Tyler, Age 11
Progressed from beginner to intermediate in 6 months
Scholarship FAQs
Do I have to pay back the scholarship?
No. Red Dirt scholarships are grants, not loans. You don't pay them back. We invest in youth because we believe in the power of shooting sports.
How long does the scholarship last?
Scholarships are awarded annually and can be renewed. As long as you're participating and making progress, we'll support you.
Can I apply if I don't qualify for free/reduced lunch?
Absolutely. Fill out a need statement and let us know your situation. We review each application individually and consider all circumstances.
What if I'm denied? Can I appeal?
Yes. If your application is denied, you can request a review or reapply the following year. We want to help—let's talk about options.
Can I apply mid-season?
Yes. We review applications rolling throughout the year. Apply anytime—you don't have to wait for a specific deadline.
Do I need a parent/guardian to apply?
Yes. We need parental/guardian consent and contact information. They'll need to sign the application and any waivers.
Ready to Apply?
Don't let cost hold you back. Apply for a scholarship today and start your archery journey.
Apply for a ScholarshipQuestions? Contact us or call us at (XXX) XXX-XXXX
Mobile Outreach & Accessibility
We bring archery to you. 54+ workshops per year across OK, TX, MO, and AR. No matter where you live, Red Dirt makes archery accessible.
We Come to You
300-350 miles round-trip per event. We travel to rural communities, schools, and 4-H clubs across four states.
Fully Equipped
All equipment provided: bows, arrows, targets, safety gear. Youth show up ready to learn—we handle the rest.
Scholarships Included
Financial aid available at every workshop. 70% of participants receive support—cost is never a barrier.
Expert Coaching
3-5 certified coaches per session (USA Archery, 4-H, S3DA). Professional instruction in every community.
Where We Serve
Red Dirt delivers mobile workshops across Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas. We prioritize rural and underserved communities.
🟥 Oklahoma
Primary Service Area
Tillman, Kiowa, Jackson, Cotton, Oklahoma, Comanche counties and beyond
Year-round workshops
🟦 Texas
Extended Service Area
North Texas communities, schools, and 4-H clubs
4-6 workshops/month (peak season)
🟩 Missouri
Extended Service Area
Southern Missouri rural communities
1-2 workshops/month
🟨 Arkansas
Extended Service Area
Western Arkansas communities and schools
1-2 workshops/month
How Mobile Workshops Work
From request to execution, we make it simple for communities to host Red Dirt workshops.
Request a Workshop
Schools, 4-H clubs, community centers, or parent groups contact us 2-3 months in advance. We discuss dates, venue, and participant numbers.
Plan & Prepare
We conduct venue safety surveys, secure insurance, coordinate logistics, and promote the workshop through co-branded outreach.
Execute the Workshop
10-15 youth per session, 3-5 certified coaches, all equipment provided. Safety briefings, hands-on instruction, and supervised practice.
Follow-Up & Support
Post-event reporting, participant feedback, scholarship applications, and pathways to ongoing training or competition.
Mobile Workshop Impact
Real numbers, real reach, real transformation.
Workshops Per Year
4-6/month peak season, 1-2/month winter
Youth Per Session
Small groups ensure personalized coaching
Coaches Per Workshop
USA Archery, 4-H, S3DA certified
Youth Reached Annually
Through mobile outreach across 4 states
Low-Income Participants
Serving underserved communities
Boys/Girls Ratio
Inclusive and welcoming to all
Our Community Partners
Mobile outreach works because of strong partnerships with schools, 4-H, OSU Extension, and community organizations.
4-H Shooting Sports
Official Partner
Collaborative workshops, shared coaching resources, and co-branded outreach across all service areas.
OSU Extension
Key Partner
Tillman County and regional offices provide venue support, promotion, and youth recruitment.
Local Schools
Community Access
Schools host workshops, provide facilities, and connect us with youth who benefit most.
Community Centers
Rural Reach
Faith-based groups, gun clubs, and civic organizations open doors in underserved areas.
Mobile Outreach Success Stories
Real youth from rural communities, transformed by access.
"I live 90 miles from the nearest archery range. Red Dirt came to our school and changed my life. Now I'm competing at state level."
— Emma, Age 14, Rural Texas
Progressed from beginner to state competitor in 18 months
"Without the mobile workshop, my kids would never have tried archery. Now it's a family activity and they're thriving."
— Parent, Small-Town Oklahoma
Two siblings now training regularly, both scholarship recipients
"Red Dirt brought professional coaching to our 4-H club. Our youth are now competing regionally and winning."
— 4-H Leader, Arkansas
Club grew from 8 to 25 youth in one year
Mobile Outreach FAQs
How far in advance should we request a workshop?
2-3 months is ideal. This gives us time to coordinate logistics, secure insurance, and promote the event. Rush requests may be possible—contact us.
What does the host need to provide?
A safe venue (indoor or outdoor), liability insurance naming Red Dirt as additional insured, and help promoting the workshop. We provide all equipment and coaching.
Is there a cost to host a workshop?
No cost to the host or participants. We cover travel, equipment, and coaching. Scholarships available for ongoing training.
How many youth can participate?
10-15 per session is ideal for safety and personalized coaching. Larger groups can be split into multiple sessions.
What if we're outside your service area?
Contact us anyway. We're expanding and may be able to accommodate special requests or partner with local organizations.
Can youth continue training after the workshop?
Absolutely. We connect participants with ongoing training opportunities, scholarship applications, and pathways to competition.
Bring Red Dirt to Your Community
Request a mobile workshop and give your youth access to world-class archery training—no matter where you live.
Request a WorkshopQuestions? Contact us or call (XXX) XXX-XXXX
Safety & Compliance
Zero safety incidents in 3+ years. Red Dirt maintains the highest standards of youth protection, coach certification, and operational compliance.
Zero Incidents
3+ years of flawless safety record across all disciplines and events.
Certified Coaches
All instructors hold NRA, USA Archery, 4-H, or equivalent certifications.
Background Checks
Every adult with youth contact undergoes thorough background screening every 3 years.
Full Compliance
Multi-state registration, liability insurance, and regulatory adherence across all operations.
Our Coaching Team
Every Red Dirt coach holds active certifications from recognized governing bodies.
🎯 Air Rifle & Pistol
Certifications: NRA, CMP
Precision shooting instruction, competition prep, equipment safety.
🏹 Archery
Certifications: USA Archery, 4-H, S3DA, NFAA, ASA, OSAA
All archery disciplines: target, 3D, bowhunting, field archery.
🔫 Shotgun & Smallbore
Certifications: NRA, CMP
Shotgun sports, smallbore rifle, hunting education, safety protocols.
🎓 Youth Protection
Certifications: Annual 4-H Youth Protection Training
Mandatory annual training on youth safeguarding and incident response.
Background Check & Screening Process
Every adult with unsupervised youth contact undergoes comprehensive screening.
Initial Screening
All volunteers and staff complete background check application and disclosure form.
Criminal History Review
Comprehensive check for violent offenses, abuse, sexual misconduct, and disqualifying crimes.
Approval & Onboarding
Approved candidates complete youth protection training and safety orientation.
Renewal Every 3 Years
Ongoing screening ensures continuous compliance and youth safety.
Disqualifying Offenses: Violent crimes, child abuse, sexual misconduct, felony convictions related to youth harm.
Safety Protocols & Procedures
Every participant, every event, every session follows strict safety standards.
🎓 Mandatory Safety Orientation
Duration: 45-60 minutes
Completion: 100% required before participation
Discipline-specific safety rules, equipment handling, emergency procedures, and incident reporting.
🔧 Equipment Inspection
Timing: Before and after every event
Certified By: NRA-certified instructors
All firearms, bows, targets, and safety gear inspected for damage or defects.
🚑 First Aid & AED
On-Site: Every workshop and event
Certified Staff: CPR/First Aid certified coaches present
AED accessible, first aid kits stocked, emergency protocols documented.
📍 Venue Safety Surveys
Conducted: Before every mobile workshop
Verified: Safe perimeter, secure storage, emergency access
Host venue must meet liability insurance and safety requirements.
🌦️ Weather Monitoring
Continuous: During all outdoor events
Protocol: Immediate suspension for lightning, extreme heat, or unsafe conditions
Youth safety always takes priority over event schedules.
📝 Incident Documentation
Reporting: Immediate documentation of any incident
Follow-Up: Insurance claim filed within 24 hours if needed
Full transparency with parents, insurance, and regulatory bodies.
Insurance & Liability Protection
Comprehensive coverage protecting youth, families, and the organization.
General Liability
Coverage: $1-2 Million
Covers bodily injury, property damage, and operational incidents.
Accident Insurance
Coverage: $10-25K per incident
Medical expenses, emergency treatment, and participant injury coverage.
Directors & Officers (D&O)
Coverage: Full protection
Protects board members and leadership from liability claims.
Abuse & Molestation
Coverage: Full protection
Specialized coverage for youth protection and safeguarding claims.
Property Insurance
Coverage: Equipment, facilities, storage
Protects loaner gear, ranges, and facility assets.
Auto & Umbrella
Coverage: Vehicle and excess liability
Covers mobile outreach travel and additional liability protection.
Host Venue Requirements
All workshop hosts must provide:
- $1M/$2M liability insurance
- Coverage for firearms activities
- Red Dirt named as additional insured
- Proof of insurance before event date
Regulatory Compliance & Standards
Red Dirt operates under strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status
Tax-exempt organization with annual IRS filings, Form 990, and state compliance reports.
Multi-State Registration
Registered in Oklahoma (primary), Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas. Compliant with each state's nonprofit regulations.
Board Governance
18+ member board with background checks, annual conflict-of-interest disclosures, and fiduciary oversight.
COPPA & FERPA Compliance
Youth data protection standards: encrypted storage, role-based access, annual privacy reviews, secure disposal.
Firearms Transport (FOPA 18 §926A)
All firearms transported locked, unloaded, with staff logs and insurance. Compliant with federal interstate transport laws.
Youth Travel Protocols
Parental consent, medical releases, insured vehicles, certified chaperones, filed itineraries, equipment manifests.
Safety & Compliance FAQs
How often are coaches certified?
Coaches hold active certifications from NRA, USA Archery, 4-H, or equivalent bodies. Certifications are renewed per each organization's requirements (typically annually or every 2-3 years). Annual youth protection training is mandatory.
What happens if a youth is injured?
Immediate first aid by CPR-certified staff, incident documentation, parent notification, and insurance claim filing within 24 hours. Full transparency and follow-up care coordination.
Are background checks really required?
Yes, every adult with unsupervised youth contact undergoes background screening every 3 years. This is non-negotiable for youth safety.
What if a coach fails a background check?
Disqualifying offenses (violent crimes, abuse, sexual misconduct) result in immediate removal. We have zero tolerance for any threat to youth safety.
How is youth data protected?
All participant data is encrypted, stored securely, with role-based access control. We follow COPPA/FERPA-like standards and conduct annual privacy reviews.
What if weather becomes unsafe?
We monitor conditions continuously. Lightning, extreme heat, or other unsafe conditions result in immediate event suspension. Youth safety always comes first.
Our Safety Commitment
Red Dirt Shooting Sports is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and protective environment for every youth. Our zero-incident record reflects our dedication to excellence in youth safeguarding, coach certification, and operational compliance. Every policy, every procedure, and every decision is guided by one principle: youth safety first.
Questions About Safety? Contact UsSuccess Stories & Testimonials
Real youth. Real transformation. Real impact. These are the stories that drive Red Dirt's mission.
From Shy to State Champion
"I was the quiet kid who didn't fit in anywhere. Red Dirt gave me archery, but more importantly, they gave me confidence. My coaches believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. Now I'm competing at state level and my entire life has changed."
— Marcus, Age 16, Oklahoma
Outcome: Progressed from beginner to state competitor in 18 months. Earned archery scholarship offer from college.
Youth Transformations
Stories of confidence, discipline, and life-changing opportunity.
Finding Her Voice
Air Rifle
"I never thought I could do something this cool. Red Dirt made me feel like I belonged."
— Jasmine, Age 12, Texas
Journey: Beginner → Intermediate in 12 months
Impact: Joined school team, made new friends, improved grades
Next Step: Competing in regional competitions
From Couch to Competitor
Archery (3D)
"Archery gave me a reason to get outside and challenge myself. It's the best decision I've ever made."
— Tyler, Age 14, Missouri
Journey: Beginner → Advanced in 20 months
Impact: Lost 30 lbs, built discipline, found passion
Next Step: Pursuing NCAA archery scholarship
Breaking Barriers
Shotgun
"My family didn't have money for sports. Red Dirt's scholarship changed everything for us."
— Destiny, Age 15, Arkansas
Journey: First-time participant → Team member in 8 months
Impact: Full scholarship, family engagement, leadership role
Next Step: Mentoring younger participants
Rediscovering Purpose
Air Pistol
"Red Dirt coaches saw potential in me that I didn't see in myself. They changed my trajectory."
— DeShawn, Age 13, Oklahoma
Journey: Struggling student → Focused competitor in 14 months
Impact: Improved academics, built confidence, found mentors
Next Step: State competition qualifier
Family & Community Impact
Red Dirt transforms not just youth, but entire families and communities.
Family Bonding
"My kids are thriving in Red Dirt, and now we're doing archery together as a family. It's brought us closer."
— Parent, Oklahoma
2 siblings, both scholarship recipients, family now competes together
Community Growth
"Red Dirt's mobile workshop transformed our 4-H club. We went from 8 youth to 25 in one year."
— 4-H Leader, Arkansas
Club expanded, youth earning scholarships, regional competition placements
Academic Success
"Archery gave my son discipline and focus. His grades improved and he's more confident in school."
— Parent, Texas
GPA improvement, leadership skills, college scholarship pathway
Life Direction
"Red Dirt helped my daughter find her passion and direction. She's now pursuing a college archery scholarship."
— Parent, Oklahoma
NCAA recruitment interest, full scholarship offers, clear future path
Veteran & Mentor Stories
Red Dirt's veteran support program creates meaningful connections and healing through shooting sports.
Mentorship & Purpose
"Coaching youth at Red Dirt gave me purpose again. Helping these kids is the most rewarding thing I've done."
— Coach James, U.S. Army Veteran
NRA-Certified Coach, 3+ years with Red Dirt
Healing Through Community
"Red Dirt's community and the shooting sports helped me heal. Now I'm giving back by mentoring the next generation."
— Coach Sarah, U.S. Marine Veteran
USA Archery-Certified Coach, Mentor to 20+ youth
Impact by the Numbers
Measurable outcomes that prove Red Dirt's transformation.
Youth Served Annually
150+ direct, 600+ through mobile outreach
Receiving Scholarships
$1-2K per youth removes financial barriers
Multi-Year Retention
Youth stay engaged and committed
Mobile Workshops/Year
Reaching rural and underserved communities
Disciplines Offered
Air rifle, pistol, archery, shotgun, and more
Safety Incidents (3+ years)
Flawless safety record across all programs
College Scholarships & Pathways
Red Dirt youth are earning scholarships and competing at the NCAA level.
NCAA Archery
Multiple Red Dirt youth have earned NCAA archery scholarships to compete at the collegiate level.
Partner Schools: Murray State, Texas A&M, UT Tyler, Jacksonville State
Collegiate Shooting Sports
Red Dirt maintains relationships with USA Shooting and collegiate shooting programs nationwide.
Pathways: USA Shooting, S3DA Collegiate Archery, CMP
Recruitment Support
Red Dirt coaches provide mentorship, competition prep, and direct connections to college recruiting.
Support: Video highlights, competition records, coach recommendations
What Parents & Coaches Say
Feedback from families and community partners.
"Red Dirt is more than a shooting sports program. It's a life-changing opportunity for youth who need it most."
— School Principal, Oklahoma
"The professionalism, safety standards, and genuine care for youth at Red Dirt is unmatched. Our community trusts them completely."
— 4-H County Coordinator, Texas
"My daughter was shy and struggling. Red Dirt gave her confidence, discipline, and a community. I can't thank them enough."
— Parent, Arkansas
"Red Dirt's commitment to accessibility and inclusion is inspiring. They truly remove barriers for youth who want to participate."
— OSU Extension Director, Oklahoma
"The coaches are certified professionals who genuinely care about each youth's development—both as competitors and as people."
— Coach, USA Archery
"Red Dirt's scholarship program changed our family's life. Our kids have opportunities we never dreamed possible."
— Parent, Oklahoma
Your Story Could Be Next
Every youth deserves access to opportunity, mentorship, and the chance to discover their potential. Join Red Dirt and become part of a community that transforms lives.
Get Started TodayHave a story to share? Contact us — we'd love to hear about your Red Dirt experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We've got answers. Find everything you need to know about Red Dirt programs, scholarships, safety, and getting started.
What is Red Dirt Shooting Sports?
Red Dirt Shooting Sports is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to removing financial and access barriers to youth (ages 8–18) participating in shooting sports. We offer 11 disciplines including air rifle, archery, shotgun, and more across Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas.
Who can participate?
Youth ages 8–18 are welcome to participate in Red Dirt programs. No prior experience is necessary. We serve youth from all backgrounds, income levels, and abilities.
What disciplines does Red Dirt offer?
We offer 11 disciplines: air rifle, air pistol, archery (target, 3D, bowhunting), smallbore rifle, smallbore pistol, shotgun, muzzleloader, hunter education, and survival skills.
Where are Red Dirt programs located?
We operate in Oklahoma (primary), Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas. Our facility is in Frederick, OK. We also conduct 54+ mobile workshops per year across all four states.
Is Red Dirt a nonprofit?
Yes, Red Dirt Shooting Sports Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All revenue supports youth programs, scholarships, and community outreach.
How long has Red Dirt been operating?
Red Dirt has been serving youth for several years with a mission-driven focus on accessibility, safety, and character development. We maintain a zero-incident safety record over 3+ years.
What's the difference between beginner, intermediate, and advanced training?
Beginner (8–12): Safety fundamentals, equipment basics, confidence building. Intermediate (10–16): Discipline-specific training, local competitions, skill development. Advanced (13–18): State/national prep, specialized coaching, competition focus.
How often do youth train?
Training frequency varies by discipline. Air rifle/pistol: 6–8 hrs/week. Archery: 6–28 hrs/week depending on discipline. Shotgun/Smallbore: 12–24 months to competition readiness. Schedules are flexible and accommodate school calendars.
Do I need to own equipment?
No. Red Dirt provides all loaner equipment including rifles, bows, pistols, arrows, targets, and safety gear. Youth show up ready to learn—we handle the rest.
Can youth compete?
Yes. Red Dirt youth compete locally, regionally, and at the state level. We prepare youth for competitions and provide pathways to NCAA scholarships and collegiate shooting sports.
What's the retention rate?
Red Dirt has a 60% multi-year retention rate. 70–75% of beginners progress to intermediate, and 50–60% advance to competitive levels. Youth stay engaged because they're having fun and seeing real progress.
Are there mobile workshops?
Yes. We conduct 54+ mobile workshops per year across OK, TX, MO, and AR. Workshops are 10–15 youth per session with 3–5 certified coaches. All equipment and scholarships are included.
How much do programs cost?
Red Dirt offers scholarships to 70% of participants. Youth from low-income families, those receiving assistance, or those with demonstrated financial need are eligible. Cost is never a barrier to participation.
Who qualifies for a scholarship?
Youth ages 8–18 with financial need qualify. Eligibility includes: free/reduced lunch status, current assistance, or a simple financial need statement. No complex application required.
What does a scholarship cover?
Scholarships cover equipment, training fees, travel, and competition costs. Average scholarship: $1,000–$2,000 per youth per year. Coverage is tailored to individual needs.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
Fill out a brief application form, provide a statement of financial need, and optionally get a coach/leader recommendation. Rolling review by board committee. Notification in 2–4 weeks.
Is the application process difficult?
No. We keep it simple. A one-page form and a short statement are all we need. We want to remove barriers, not create them.
Can my family get help with travel costs?
Yes. Scholarships cover travel to competitions and events. We also conduct mobile workshops in your community to reduce travel needs.
Is Red Dirt safe?
Yes. Red Dirt maintains a zero-incident safety record over 3+ years. All coaches are certified (NRA, USA Archery, 4-H). Background checks every 3 years. Mandatory safety orientations. Full insurance coverage. Safety is our top priority.
Are all coaches certified?
Yes. Every Red Dirt coach holds active certifications from recognized governing bodies: NRA, USA Archery, 4-H, S3DA, NFAA, ASA, OSAA, or CMP. Annual youth protection training is mandatory.
Do coaches have background checks?
Yes. Every adult with unsupervised youth contact undergoes comprehensive background screening every 3 years. Disqualifying offenses (violent crimes, abuse, sexual misconduct) result in immediate removal.
What safety training do youth receive?
Mandatory safety orientation (45–60 min) before participation. 100% completion required. Covers discipline-specific rules, equipment handling, emergency procedures, and incident reporting. Make-up sessions available.
What if my child is injured?
Immediate first aid by CPR-certified staff. Incident documentation. Parent notification. Insurance claim filed within 24 hours. Full transparency and follow-up care coordination.
Is youth data protected?
Yes. All participant data is encrypted, stored securely, with role-based access control. We follow COPPA/FERPA-like standards. Annual privacy reviews. Secure disposal of data. Zero data sales.
How do I register my youth?
Visit our website and complete the registration form. Provide basic information, parental consent, and medical release. Our team will contact you within 1 week to schedule orientation and first session.
What happens during onboarding?
1-week process: Registration → Waivers → Background check → Orientation → Equipment fitting → Supervised session → Progress follow-up. We make sure every youth is ready and confident.
What should my youth bring to the first session?
Just bring your youth! We provide all equipment (rifles, bows, pistols, safety gear, targets). Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. We handle everything else.
Can my youth try multiple disciplines?
Absolutely. Many youth try several disciplines before finding their passion. We encourage exploration. Coaches help youth discover what they love.
How do I request a mobile workshop?
Contact us 2–3 months in advance. Schools, 4-H clubs, community centers, and parent groups can request workshops. We discuss dates, venue, and participant numbers. No cost to host or participants.
How do I stay updated on programs and events?
Follow us on Facebook, subscribe to our email newsletter, or visit our website. We share program updates, event schedules, scholarship info, and success stories regularly.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out anytime with questions about programs, scholarships, safety, or anything else.
Or call (XXX) XXX-XXXX | Email: info@redditshootingsports.org
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