SPFGA Outdoor Youth Program - Rifle Marksmanship and Biathlon

The Sherwood Park Fish and Game Association Outdoor Youth Program is grounded in the understanding that children and youth play a crucial role as future stewards of our planet.

Through outdoor education initiatives, the program aims to nurture responsible environmental stewardship. Research indicates that engaging in outdoor activities significantly improves the mental well-being and happiness of young people, enriching their overall quality of life, and that outdoor experiences bolster physical, mental, and cognitive health, as well as enhancing problem-solving abilities. By fostering a deeper connection between youth and nature, our Youth program seeks to enhance ecological literacy and cultivate conservation-oriented values and actions, essential for addressing current environmental and conservation challenges. Recognizing the declining trend of outdoor engagement, especially in urban settings, this program offers structured outdoor experiences to counteract this shift. These experiences not only foster a meaningful connection with nature but also facilitate the development of outdoor skills and competencies, empowering youth to better engage with, and appreciate the natural world.

Through a safe and supportive learning environment, this will be comprised of six sessions throughout 2024.

Are you curious about hunting, biathlon (cross-country skiing and rifle shooting), or other shooting sports but have never handled a firearm? Would you like to start with an optical rifle? Join us for an exciting opportunity to learn and practice with an Eco-Aim optical rifle!

Eco-Aims are innovative training tools that look and feel like real firearms but are actually sophisticated cameras. These devices are used by athletes worldwide in competitions across various sports, including Biathlon, Modern Pentathlon, Obstacle Course Racing, and more. Since they are cameras, Eco-Aims are noiseless and allow for extensive practice without the cost of ammunition.

Thanks to a grant from the Minister’s Special Licence Raffle, the Sherwood Park Fish and Game Association (SPFGA) has acquired Eco-Aim hunting rifles. We are excited to partner with Alberta Biathlon to offer this unique rifle marksmanship and biathlon session. Participants will have the chance to use both Eco-Aim hunting and biathlon rifles under the expert coaching of Alberta Biathlon’s President, Lowell Niven.

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this session is perfect for you. Come and experience the future of shooting sports and see if it is the recreational pastime for you!

(Banner photo credit: Ecoaims Precision Sports System https://www.ecoaims.com)

Attendance Age

This session is intended for youth 12 to 17 years of age.

Session Lead Biography

Lowell Niven is a prominent figure in the world of biathlon and Nordic sports in Alberta. Currently serving as the President of Alberta Biathlon, he has a deep-rooted connection with the sport, highlighted by his extensive coaching and mentoring roles. Lowell is also the Head Coach for Nordic Sports at the University of Alberta, where he oversees the development of student-athletes in Biathlon.

He has played a key role in nurturing young talent and has been instrumental in preparing athletes for major competitions, such as the Canada Winter Games. His expertise and leadership were particularly evident during the 2023 Canada Winter Games, where he contributed significantly to Team Alberta's preparation and performance​.

Beyond his contributions to biathlon, Lowell is dedicated to fostering the next generation of athletes. His work with the Camrose Ski Club and his involvement in the broader Nordic skiing community highlight his commitment to the sport and its athletes. Under his leadership, athletes have benefitted from his knowledge and dedication, gaining valuable insights and skills essential for competing at national and international levels.

With a deep understanding of biathlon and a passion for coaching, Lowell continues to inspire and mentor athletes, helping them to reach their full potential in the sport. His involvement in this unique rifle marksmanship and biathlon session promises to provide participants with exceptional guidance and an enriching learning experience.

The SPFGA was able to purchase the Eco-Aim optical hunting rifles through a successful Minister's Special Licence Raffle grant. The biathlon rifles are being provided by Alberta Biathlon.

Are refreshments included?

No refreshments will be provided. Please bring your own water.

Anything that participants should know?

Remember to dress for the forecasted weather conditions as you will be outside.

What happens if there's bad weather?

Unless the weather poses safety conditions, this event will proceed.

Is an SPFGA membership required in order to register?

No, these sessions are open to both members and non-members.

We will refund registration fees if an event is cancelled. Outside of that, individual refunds will not be provided. Please ensure your availability prior to booking. Individuals who cannot make the event may transfer their registration to another individual.

Host or Publisher Sherwood Park Fish & Game Association Board