Traditional shooting clubs merge against a lack of young people!

Traditional shooting clubs merge against a lack of young people!

Langenhagen, Deutschland - The Schützenverein Altenhorst and the Schützenverein Krähenwinkel in Langenhagen have taken a significant step to counteract the challenges that arise from lack of young talent and increasing infrastructure costs. The merger of the two traditional clubs, which were independent for over 100 years, was decided on Friday evening with a majority of three quarters of the members present. This represents a formative turn in the club's life of the Lower Saxony region, because many shooting clubs are currently fighting with similar challenges. So reports NDR

A central motive for this merger is the dramatic decline in members. The Altenhorster Association recently only counted around 40 active members, which brought the club management to inspect that the connection to another club is the only way to preserve its own tradition. Robert Grellmann, the second chairman of Altenhorst, clearly explains: "This is the only way to continue our club." The acute young problems have a particularly questionable effect: the topic was noticeable about ten years ago, and the circumstances were additionally reinforced by the losses during the Corona pandemic.

tradition meets modern challenges

Skepticism among the members was high at first. Some were critical of the merger proposal, especially those who are connected to their club in the third generation and feel committed to the founders. However, the insight into the need for youth promotion, which became overwhelming in view of the financial means and the age structure, finally motivated the approval of the merger. Altenhorster members give their traditional name, which is an emotional challenge for many. Nevertheless, the merger hopes to receive new impulses for club life.

This merger is not only important for the two clubs. The entire rifle association in Lower Saxony is touched by this development. Many clubs consider similar steps to escape the challenges that demographic development brings. In recent years, the age structure has shifted significantly in the clubs, which increasingly leads to the discussion about sustainable models.

a highlight in the region

Despite the setbacks, there are also bright spots. On July 6th, the world's biggest rifle march will take place in Hanover, where around 300 participants are expected. However, it is currently only reserved for boys who can take part in shooting sports. The occasion shows that despite the challenges, interest in the rifle system remains unchanged, which gives hope for the future.

In a time when more and more rifle clubs are facing the challenge of keeping their membership, the merger of Altenhorst and Krähenwinkel is a brave step. The two clubs hope that their common history and strengthening through the merger will address the young generation and arouse a new interest in shooting sports. A look at the shooting clubs in Lower Saxony clearly shows that it is time to break new ground to preserve traditions and at the same time secure the future. Further information on other shooting clubs in Lower Saxony can be found on the website of the BDS Lower Saxony .