Shooting clubs are changing: Women demand a say in the royal shooting competition!
In the Cloppenburg district, the role of women in shooting clubs is being discussed and traditions are being put to the test.

Shooting clubs are changing: Women demand a say in the royal shooting competition!
A lot has changed in the region's shooting clubs in recent years, especially with regard to the role of women. While in some places such as Friesoythe and Löningen traditionally only men are allowed to take part in the royal shooting competition, there is increasing discussion about whether these old structures are up to date. Loud NWZonline In these communities there is a strong adherence to the male bastions, while in other places such as Strücklingen and Reekenfeld/Kamperfehn women are already being proclaimed as shooting queens.
Femininity in shooting is not a new discussion, but the perspective on it has changed. All shooting clubs highlights that women have remained in passive roles in clubs for many years. Younger groups, however, are more open-minded. For example, since 2017, members of the St. Otgerus Shooting Guild have been given the right to take part in shooting festivals and even become shooting queens themselves.
Traditions in change
The question of whether the traditions in the shooting culture need to be readjusted is obvious. Traditionally, men are seen as active competitors, while women, often referred to as “Röskes”, take on a decorative role. However, these old role models are up for discussion. According to a report by desire and people Society remains equal, and equality should also find its way into shooting.
The challenges facing older clubs could have serious consequences. How NWZonline reports, there are already places in Cloppenburg where women are recognized as active members, which shows that a rethinking of the royal shooting is underway. However, the question remains whether it will only remain a matter of discussion or whether the statutes will actually be changed to allow women access to competitions such as eagle shooting.
A new era for shooting clubs?
It remains to be seen how shooting clubs will change in the coming years. Many agree that the future organization of the clubs must be inclusive in order not to be perceived as outdated. Young shooting clubs are already showing that openness towards other groups, especially women, can also be adopted by older clubs.
The upcoming shooting festivals in Friesoythe, Essen and Löningen, which are considered a big party for the community, could play a key role in this. Only if women can actively participate in these events will the shooting festivals retain their importance as community events in the future.