The Elks National Free Throw Contest “Hoop Shoot”

 What is the Elks National “Hoop Shoot” Program?

The Elks “Hoop Shoot” Free Throw Contest is the largest most visible of the many youth activities sponsored by Elks lodges. Over 3,000,000 boys and girls ages 8-13 will participate this year. The Elks “Hoop Shoot” has served to highlight the Elks commitment to America’s youth. From the millions of youngsters who participate and advance through the local, district, state and regional competition, six national champions are named – one boy and one girl in each of the three categories: ages 8-9, 10-11 and 12-13. The winners each receive a trophy and their names are inscribed on a plaque at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. Parents accompany contestants throughout the competition. The parents of finalists at the state, regional, and national levels attend the competition as guests of the Elks.

How will the “Hoop Shoot” benefit the Children Who Participate?

The Elks desire through their “Hoop Shoot” program, to provide an interesting, character-building, competitive program for all girls and boys in the contest regardless of their previous athletic competition or abilities. This nationwide, sanctioned program gives these youngsters an opportunity for spirited competition, fine relationships with their peers, and travel statewide, regionally and nationally- at a minimal expense to their parents.

Not only are the participants involved in this wholesome, individual-effort program, but parents, classmates, teachers and community are included.

What are Our School’s Obligations in having a “Hoop Shoot” Program?

In most cases schools conduct their own contest under the direction of the physical education instructor, using “Hoop Shoot” rules and school helpers; declaring winners in each of the girls and boys divisions. These school champions then enter the sponsoring Elks Lodge contest to compete with champions from neighboring schools. Your sponsoring Elks Lodge will furnish the necessary materials and assistance for you to conduct your school contest.

Who Organizes and Runs the “Hoop Shoot” Program?

Your sponsoring Elks Lodge will assist you in organizing and running you school contest. The Elks will also see that your school winners are notified on their next level of competition, from the local level right up to the national finals.

Who can Participate in the “Hoop Shoot” Program?

The Elks National Free Throw Contest is open to all boys and girls, ages 8-13, regardless of race, color or creed.

What Rewards do the “Hoop Shoot” Winners Receive?

The “Hoop Shoot” program provides a constructive, character-building experience for young people who participate. This program allows competition with peers, free from outside influence of parents, coaches and teammates. It teaches young people the importance of developing individual skills. In addition to the mental and physical benefits provided by competing in the “Hoop Shoot” program, contestants at various levels of competition receive certificates of participation and achievement. Winners may receive trophies and plaques. The names of the national champions are displayed at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.

What is the Cost of Conducting a “Hoop Shoot” Contest and Who is Responsible for it?

Most schools are equipped with the necessary facilities to conduct a “Hoop Shoot” program. School physical education personnel, often assisted by Elks volunteers, normally conduct the contest. For district contests and beyond, nearly all the costs for materials, transportation, food and housing are borne by the Order of the Elks. The “Hoop Shoot” program is funded by the Elks National Foundation, which is supported by individual and group contributions of members of the Elks fraternity.

How do the Elks benefit form the “Hoop Shoot” Program?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks has always considered the youth of our nation its most treasured national resource. By affording America’s children an opportunity to sharpen individual athletic talents through the largest non-commercial your co-educational sports programs in the nation, we re teaching lessons of self-discipline, respect, dedication, loyalty and individual responsibility. The contestants are better prepared for the challenge of today’s world and tomorrow’s productive opportunities.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is one of the oldest and largest fraternal organizations in the United States. Today there are more than 1.5 million members of the Elks in 2,300 local Lodges located in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. They provide recreational facilities for the entire family and are the focal point for many community service and charitable programs that are an Elks tradition. The Elks devote a great deal of attention to youth programs. Lodges and individual members today sponsor more than 1,000 Boy and Girl Scout troops and 3,000 youth sports teams, as wells as Boys’ Clubs and Campfire groups. One of the most important youth programs in recent years is the annual Elks “Hoop Shoot” a national free throw shooting contest for boys and girls ages 8-13. Over 3 million youngsters participate from all 50 states local contest to advance to the national finals where six champions are named.

How Do I Start a “Hoop Shoot” Program?

Simply contact you nearest Elks Lodge and ask for the “Hoop Shoot” Director or Exalted Ruler, or contact the National Director, Cam Cronk, P.O. Box 80906, Billings, Montana, 59108. Telephone: 406.656.5818 Fax: 406.652.1378

The Elks Believe “Yes to the “Hoop Shoot” ---- No to Drugs”

“Hoop Shoot” is a registered trademark of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America.