Lincoln, Neb. -- The 2006 Nebraska Muzzleloading Rifle High School Championships, sponsored by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Pawnee Free Trappers, is scheduled for June 9-11 at the Pawnee Free Trappers range five miles west of McCook, according to Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Mike Streeter.

The junior division competition is open to all hunter education graduates ages 11- 14 years and the senior division competition is open to hunter education graduates ages 15 - 19 years . All competitors must have attended school or been home schooled this year. Each competitor must have proof of hunter education certification prior to competing.

Streeter said the shoot will include both individual and team competition. Each team will consist of four shooters in the high school, 4-H, and open categories. Pre-registration is encouraged.

This match is sanctioned by the United Nebraska Muzzleloaders Association (UNMLA), and UNMRL membership is encouraged but not required. There will be no charge to participants for this match. Trophies and/or medals furnished by the UNMLA will be awarded to the three highest scoring individuals of each division and the highest scoring teams. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will provide a ball cap to registered shooters while the supply lasts.

Primitive camping is available on the area, but campers should obtain permission from the Pawnee Free Trappers. The closest lodging And meal facilities are in McCook. Bring the whole family and make it a family event. A set of rules may be obtained by contacting Streeter at (402) 471-6134 or Match Director Merlin Shaffer at (308) 334-5357