Junior Shooting Sports - Department of Washington

The American Legion Department of Washington operates the Junior Shooting Sports Program—a youth-focused initiative that develops marksmanship, discipline, and character through competitive air rifle shooting.

Participants shoot .177 caliber air rifles in structured training and competition formats. The program runs local training sessions led by certified instructors, then advances top shooters through state and regional postal matches to a fully-funded national championship held each July.

Program Structure: - Regular training sessions with certified instructors - Local, state, and regional competitions - Annual 3-Position Junior Air Rifle National Championship - Postal match qualifying rounds - Shoulder-to-shoulder competition at nationals

Both males and females are welcome. The program specifically encourages participation from individuals with disabilities—competitive shooting offers an equitable environment where everyone can compete on merit. Young shooters affiliate through their local American Legion post, Sons of The American Legion squadron, or Auxiliary unit.

The program focuses on skill development, character building, and competitive opportunity—teaching safe firearm handling while building responsibility, self-discipline, and respect.

What Participants Gain: - Thorough gun safety education and responsible firearm handling - Marksmanship fundamentals and advanced shooting techniques - Life skills like focus, patience, and teamwork that transfer beyond the range - Physical and mental fitness through active training - Community engagement with local Legion posts - Potential scholarship opportunities based on performance

Interested shooters or families should contact their local American Legion post to inquire about Junior Shooting Sports initiatives. Most posts offer orientation sessions to introduce the program, then participants register for training to begin competing.

• •Contact: American Legion Department of Washington, (360) 491-4373 | Lacey, WA