Local Paris Patriots 4-H member Max Billings, a freshman at Paris R-II High School, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a spot on the 2025 Missouri 4-H Shotgun Sports Team. This team will compete at the National 4-H Shooting Sports Competition in Grand Island, Nebraska, from June 22-27, 2025.

Max is the son of Joey and Dana Billings. He is active in 4-H, basketball, baseball, FFA, FBLA, and ATA. He was also recently selected to the ATA AIM Sub Junior All State Team.

To earn a place on the 4-H state team, Billings and other 4-Hers participated in a series of tryouts held at various locations across Missouri, including Prairie Grove Shooting Complex-Columbia, Pole Cat Creek-Harrisonville, Ozark Shooters Sports Complex-Walnut Shade, and United Sportsman’s Club-Jefferson City. Shooters were required to shoot trap, skeet, and sporting clays at each location.

After all tryouts were completed, Max Billings (Monroe County), Tanner Strubinger (Marion County), Ayden Shortridge (Marion County), Ethan Butteris (Pulaski County), and alternate Conner Newton (Saline County) were offered a spot on the team.

The team members have invested countless hours in training, practicing safety, and perfecting their shooting techniques. Their hard work and commitment have paid off, and they are now excited to represent Missouri at the national level.

To support the team's journey to Nationals, donations are being accepted to cover expenses including range fees, ammunition, and travel costs. Individuals interested in contributing can contact Max Billings, Paris Patriots 4-H Club Leader Kim Mitchell, or Max's parents, Dana and Joey Billings.

As Max and his teammates prepare for the national competition, the community is encouraged to support their efforts and wish them the best of luck.