Meridian Optimist Junior Rifle Club

The Meridian Optimist Junior Rifle Club is a community-focused shooting facility in Meridian, Idaho, dedicated to youth marksmanship training and competitive rifle shooting. Operating since 1961, this club has become a cornerstone of youth development in the region.

Located at the Idaho Power Transformer building on East Bower Street, the club operates a dedicated indoor rifle range designed specifically for junior shooters and competitive marksmen. The range features multiple firing points equipped for .22 caliber smallbore and air rifle competition.

The club offers:

• •Air rifle and smallbore (.22) instruction and competition - Primary focus for junior shooters
• •National competitive matches - Affiliated with the National Rifle Association (NRA) and Idaho State Rifle and Pistol Association
• •Youth training programs - Structured coaching for developing proper shooting technique and safety
• •Team competitions - Opportunity to compete at state and national levels

The Junior Rifle Club operates five nights per week from October through April each year, providing seasonal training during peak competition months. This schedule accommodates school calendars and allows youth to develop skills during the competitive season.

This is a membership-based club affiliated with the Meridian Optimist Club. The organization welcomes youth interested in developing marksmanship skills under qualified instruction. For membership information and enrollment details, contact Dr. Jason Haycock at 208-830-2520 or Jessica Anderson at 208-407-6346.

The club received a 1985 Meritorious Achievement Award from the National Rifle Association, recognizing its outstanding service to youth development and competitive shooting. The club is also affiliated with the National Guard, American Legion, and Boy Scouts of America.

After more than 30 years at the current location, the club has launched expansion initiatives to enhance facilities with electronic scoring equipment, additional firing points, meeting and training areas, and improved amenities.