USA Shooting has a strong connection to programs related to youth, including involvement with age groups from children to college students. It is in the development of rising juniors that USA Shooting can look forward to a bright future in Olympic competition.

There are many programs available through USA Shooting and partner organizations to get an interested young pistol, rifle or shotgun shooter more involved with the international style of shooting. When considering a program for your youth there are two key outlets.

Introducing Juniors

For young shooters seeking an introduction to the sport, the USA Shooting Youth Programs division is the right place to start. Managed by three-time Olympian and Olympic silver medalist Bob Foth, the division is dedicated to helping athletes break into the sport.


USA Shooting Junior Members

For rising juniors who are ready to compete in sanctioned matches, the USA Shooting Junior Olympic Program is a great start. Also, junior members can sign up for most USA Shooting competitions that require a membership in the organzation. There are certain age categories for all national USA Shooting events.

Junior Age Categories

There are several different age groups for young shooters (based on athlete age in 2008).

  • Junior 1 (J1): ages 18-20; competitors born from 1988 - 1990
  • Junior 2 (J2): ages 15-17; competitors born from 1991 - 1993
  • Junior 3 (J3): ages 14 years or younger; competitors born from 1994 or later

College Aged Juniors

There are several programs associated with college aged juniors, and most do not know that there are many scholarships available for talented pistol, rifle and shotgun shooters.

Visit the NCAA web site to learn about universities that have sport shooting programs/teams.

For information on how your child can get involved, or for more about programs associated with colleges and universities, contact:

Bob Foth
Director, Youth Programs & Coach Development
719/866-4881
Bob.Foth@usashooting.org


Youth Coaching Resources

For information on learning to maximize your potential as a shooting coach, please visit our Coach Development Program section. To find a coach in your area that specializes in working with youth click here.