Young Awesome Hunter | www.yahunter.com

Author: YAH Staff

MidwayUSA Foundation Invites You to an All-Inclusive Training Weekend July 25-27, 2025

Monday, April 07, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #midwayusafoundation

You are invited to an all-inclusive training weekend July 25-27, 2025, at the stunning Vortex Edge facility in Barneveld, Wisconsin. We are thrilled to partner with Vortex Optics, Federal Premium Ammunition, and Ruger Firearms to present this exclusive three-day, two-night experience, limited to just 15 lucky participants. Your generous donation of $2,995 will be matched dollar-for-dollar to support a youth shooting team, ensuring that your contribution has double the impact. In return, you will receive a new Ruger RXM pistol and an exclusive unreleased Vortex optic. Enjoy a VIP tour of the Vortex facility and take part in delightful evening activities, including golfing, clay shooting, and bourbon tastings, all while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Feel free to bring a guest for an additional donation of $400, making this an incredible opportunity to share with a friend. Join us for a weekend of knowledge, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories—reserve your spot today at https://tinyurl.com/3jbc5bc7

USA Youth Education Shooting Sports Partners with Jim Maggard and Mike Simpson for International Clays Game Training

Friday, March 28, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #usashootingsportseducation, #youthshooting

This exclusive camp is designed to provide aspiring young shooters with top-tier professional coaching and an immersive experience in the world of international shooting sports. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting, this camp is the perfect opportunity to hone your skills and learn from the best in the field.

Here’s what you can expect from the USAYESS International Development Camp:

  • Professional Coaching: Receive personalized instruction from renowned coaches, including Mike Simpson, USA Shooting Master Coach, and Jim Maggard, USAYESS International Development Coach. With their expertise and guidance, you’ll refine your technique and elevate your performance to new heights.
  • Ammunition Included: Focus on your training without worrying about ammunition costs. Your registration fee of $800 covers all ammunition needed for the camp activities.
  • Delicious Lunch Provided: Stay fueled and energized throughout the day with complimentary lunch provided onsite. It’s the perfect opportunity to refuel and connect with fellow participants.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow shooters, and take your passion for shooting sports to new heights.

Welcome to registration for the USAYESS International Development Camp!

Mike Simson USA Shooting Master Coach, USA Shooting Coach of the Year, USA Shooting Development Coach

Meet our Master Class Coaches.

Jim Maggard USAYESS International Development USA Shooting Advanced Coach Level 2 NRA

Here are a few key items of importance:

  • Date: May 17-18, 2025
  • Location: Bridge Creek Clays, 3760 Dunn Road, Hartsfield, GA
  • Cost: $800 includes Professional Coaching, Ammunition, and Lunch
  • Coaches: For Bunker Trap – Mike Simpson, USA Shooting Master Coach, USA Shooting Coach of the Year, USA Shooting Development Coach.

For International Skeet – Jim Maggard, USAYESS International Development, USA Shooting Advanced Coach.

  • Hotel Reservations: Hampton Inn, 441 Hampton Way, Moultrie, GA. Call the hotel directly at 229-616-7777 to request the “USA” You can also book online using the Group Code USE. Travel and Lodging are separate from camp costs.

Civilian Marksmanship Program Now Offering Student Scholarships

Thursday, March 27, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #civilianmarksmanshipprogram, #youthshooting

The Civilian Marksmanship Program is proud to provide this scholarship program for deserving high school seniors who excel in marksmanship! The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) offers $1,000, $3,000 and $5,000 one-year scholarship assistance to qualified junior marksmen in order to encourage and reward their outstanding efforts. In 2025, over $325,000 will be awarded.

Again in 2025, the CMP will present not just one, but FOUR $5,000 scholarships that will be renewable for 4 years (Total value of each scholarship awarded: $20,000). The “Carolyn Hines Memorial Scholarship” will be awarded to the top graduating senior who best exemplifies Dr. Hines’ ideals. Three additional scholarships will be awarded to top seniors to commemorate the retirement of longtime CMP Board members Judith Legerski, Jon Bengston and Harry Sieben, who were all devoted to sustaining youth activities. The overall applicants will be determined by members of the CMP Scholarship Committee.

The remaining CMP Scholarships are one-year awards that may be used to fund any accredited secondary education, technical/trade school or vocational program. CMP Scholarships may also be used to pursue a post-secondary education during the upcoming school year.

Generously, the Garand Collectors Association has presented four additional $5,000 John C. Garand Scholarships, while the family of Michael Thomas Randall has contributed three $5,000 scholarships for the Michael T Randall Memorial Scholarships. The Talladega Superspeedway has also provided a sum of $5,000 toward the CMP Scholarship Program.

The Scholarship Program will also award CMP Local Scholarships in the Anniston, Alabama, Talladega, Alabama, Port Clinton, Ohio and Oak Harbor, Ohio, areas. Seniors are encouraged to apply and no marksmanship experience is required to apply for the CMP local scholarships.

2025 CMP Shooting Sports Scholarship Application

2025 CMP Local Community Scholarship Application

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2024 CMP Scholarship Recipients!

The scholarships are paid directly to the scholarship recipient. The check may then be used to pay other fees or expenses that are not covered by other awards or grants.

The CMP seeks applications from high school seniors who currently compete in marksmanship competitions. Based on merit, selected individuals are high school seniors who are currently enrolled in a team or club that is participating in marksmanship competitions. 

If you have any questions, please contact CMP at (419) 635-2141, ext. 701 or email shand@thecmp.org.

Who is eligible to apply for a scholarship? 

To be eligible for CMP scholarships, junior shooters must:

  • Be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Be of good moral character.
  • Be a graduating high school senior.
  • Demonstrate acceptance to a university, college or trade school leading to a diploma or trade certification.
  • Demonstrate marksmanship competition experience (this includes air gun, smallbore, pistol, rifle, shotgun, archery, etc.).

Information for the 2024-2025 CMP Scholarships

In addition to the completed application form, please include:

  • A certified copy of the applicant’s high school transcript
  • A letter from the applicant including the reasons for applying and how the scholarship will help in pursuit of the applicant’s goals
  • Additional Documentation of proof of marksmanship activity

Your scholarship application must be completed by April 4, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

SCTP Hires McCart as Southeast Programs Manager

Monday, March 24, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: Briefs, News
Tags: #sctp, #sylviamccart, scholastic clay target program
The Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) is happy to announce the hiring of Sylvia McCart as Programs Manager. Selected from a pool of thirty applicants, McCart will be covering the Southeast Region, helping grow both new and existing youth clay target teams.
 
“We are grateful to have Sylvia join us as the SE Programs Manager,” commented Wayne Rasmussen, SCTP National Director. “ She has a long history working with youth shooting teams and helping grow the SCTP.”
 
“I’m incredibly honored to take on this role,” stated McCart. “I look forward to serving the Southeast by continuing to grow a sport that has given so much to our youth, and supporting the athletes, families, and coaches who are its heart and soul. The future is bright for our youth in the clay target sports, and I am grateful to be a part of this exciting journey as we continue to inspire, support, and grow our next generation of clay target athletes.”

As Terri DeWitt steps down from this role, she is not leaving the Scholastic Clay Target Program. Terri remains the Coach of the SCTP National Team and is looking forward to having more time to focus working with our future Olympians.
About the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation
The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) is 501(c)(3) public charity responsible for all aspects of the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) and Scholastic Action Shooting Program (SASP) across the United States. The SCTP and SASP are youth development programs in which adult coaches and other volunteers use shooting sports to teach and to demonstrate sportsmanship, responsibility, honesty, ethics, integrity, teamwork, and other positive life skills.

Provide and enhance personal growth and development opportunities for student athlete members; become the premier authority in all things pertaining to firearm-related pursuits for youth; pass on to future generations the legacy of lifelong, safe, responsible enjoyment of the shooting sports. This includes serving as the primary feeder/pipeline for organized, sanctioned shooting organizations and teams, like USA SHOOTING, TEAM USA, and the NGBs (NSSA, NSCA, ATA). 

Ruger Doubles Down On Their Commitment To MidwayUSA Foundation Through Online Auctions

Friday, March 21, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #midwayusafoundation, #rugerguns
Columbia, MO – Ruger Firearms has made significant efforts to support MidwayUSA Foundation and promote the future of shooting sports. From September to December 2024, Ruger hosted 17 auctions on GunBroker.com. The proceeds from these auctions totaled $25,000, benefiting MidwayUSA Foundation, a public charity dedicated to sustaining and growing youth shooting sports by providing long-term funding to youth shooting teams. Every dollar raised from these auctions will directly support youth shooting sports. Ruger Public Relations Manager, Paul Pluff, talked about the importance of giving back. “Ruger Firearms is pleased to support MidwayUSA Foundation with the proceeds from our special GunBroker.com fundraising auctions.

These funds will help continue the Foundation’s efforts to support youth shooting sports programs that provide the critical safety and firearms training that focuses on developing our next-generation’s shooting sports enthusiasts.” MidwayUSA Foundation funds approximately 2,600 youth shooting teams through earmarked endowments. Each year, a team can receive a 5% cash grant from their endowment balance to cover expenses, including ammo, targets, safety equipment, and travel expenses.

MidwayUSA Foundation’s Executive Director, G. Scott Reynolds, spoke about this vital assistance. “Once again, Ruger has set the example by directly supporting youth in shooting sports.  Their generosity to ensure America’s youth have the opportunity and funds to participate in the shooting sport of their choice is appreciated and impactful.” Scott added, “Commitment from industry leaders, such as Ruger, makes a real difference in furthering youth development through shooting sports.  We can’t thank Ruger enough for their partnership and support of our mission!”  MidwayUSA Foundation also offers Range Development grants to provide funds for existing ranges to make expansions or improvements that allow for more youth shooting activities. That grant cycle is currently open and will close on April 1, 2025.

Other companies interested in supporting MidwayUSA Foundation through a sponsorship can contact John Linquist, MidwayUSA Foundation Relationship Manager, by calling 573-219-7688 or by emailing JLinquist@MidwayUSAFoundation.org. 

About Ruger Firearms: For almost 75 years, Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc. has been a model of corporate and community responsibility. Our motto, “Arms Makers for Responsible Citizens,” echoes our commitment to these principles as we work hard to deliver quality and innovative firearms. 

The MidwayUSA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity and every donation made is tax-deductible and allows the Foundation to assist in expanding and enhancing the leadership skills, confidence, and discipline of today’s youth through shooting sports activities. The Foundation supports all shooting disciplines. For more information about how the MidwayUSA Foundation is changing the future of youth shooting sports, please visit midwayusafoundation.org or call 1-877-375-4570.

NRA Now Accepting Submissions for the 2025 George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest

Thursday, February 20, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #nationalrifleassociation, #nra, #nrayouthwildlifecontest

Students in grades 1 through 12 are eligible to win cash prizes!

Fairfax, VA – The National Rifle Association of America (NRA) is now accepting submissions for the 2025 George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest. First started in 1987, the George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest offers young artists interested in hunting and wildlife an outlet to use their creative talent, practice artistic techniques, and refine wildlife identification skills through the creation of original works.

We are pleased to announce a new prize structure featuring higher monetary awards for 2025. First, second, and third place winners will be selected in each of four categories, based on the student’s grade level, and will be awarded $1500, $1000, and $750, respectively. An overall Best in Show winner will receive a cash prize of $2,000.

“The George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest provides an outlet for youth interested in the outdoors and wildlife conservation to express their creativity and artistic skills in the form of original artwork,” said Peter Churchbourne, Managing Director of NRA Hunting. “The stakes of this competition have been raised this year as the prize amounts have at least doubled for the various winners in each category. This contest not only spreads awareness of the positive effects of conservation but also gives artists the chance to win thousands of dollars in prizes.”

Open to students in grades 1 through 12, submissions will be accepted until October 1, 2025. Entries must be signed by the artist and should portray any North American game bird or animal that may be legally hunted or trapped. Endangered species and non-game animals, such as eagles and snakes, are not eligible subjects. Winning artists will be notified by November 15, 2025.

Submissions for 2025 need to be original art and mailed to NRA Headquarters. Visit https://artcontest.nra.org/ to review contest rules, see examples of previous winners, find a list of North American game animals, and to complete the entry form.

# # #

Des Moines to Host 18th Annual State Archery Tournament, Beginning Feb. 28

Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #iowayoutharchery, #nationalarcheryinschools

An estimated 2,200 students from more than 140 schools from across Iowa will be in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center (Bullseye) and the 4H Building (3D) at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines from Feb 28 to March 2, to participate in the 18th Annual National Archery in the Schools Program State Tournament. This is the largest youth archery tournament in Iowa.

Iowa student participation in the National Archery in the Schools Program has grown each year beginning from scratch in 2006 to now more than 4,800 participants in 2025.

“The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is one of the finest youth sports programs in Iowa. It teaches discipline, focus, and perseverance while giving students of all skill levels an opportunity to excel. NASP not only promotes physical activity but also fosters confidence, personal development, and an appreciation for the sport of archery,” said Zach Benttine, archery coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Competition begins Friday at 5p.m., then resumes at 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday for the bullseye and 3D competitions. There will be 50 targets set up for bullseye, which will allow 100 participants to shoot at a time. There will be 30 targets set up for 3D, which will allow 60 participants to shoot at a time.

Admission is $5 for those 19 and older; 18 and younger are admitted for free.

Archers Shoot for College Cash & Equipment

Archers participating in the Iowa Archery in the Schools Program can earn money for college. More than $10,000 will be awarded in college scholarships based on performance at the state tournament.

An additional $13,000 will be awarded outside of the state competition to archers participating in the program based on academics, essays, and other established criteria.

In addition to scholarships, teams receiving placement at the state tournament will also be eligible to receive an estimated $18,000 in equipment for their schools.

Scholarships are provided by Iowa Hunter Education Instructor Association, Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever, Whitetails Unlimited, Iowa Bowhunters Association, Safari Club International, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Haney Family Foundation, Chuck Hallier Memorial, and the National Archery in the Schools Program.

For more information on the Iowa Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) visit www.iowadnr.gov/nasp

Media Contact: Zach Benttine, Archery Coordinator, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, zachary.benttine@dnr.iowa.gov

Pass It On Outdoor Mentors Awarded Grant from Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund to Expand Youth Hunting and Fishing Programs

Saturday, February 15, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #passitonmentors, #youthhunting, #youthshooting

February 13, 2025 — Pass It On Outdoor Mentors is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a generous grant from the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, a key supporter of conservation and outdoor education initiatives. This funding will help expand Pass It On Outdoor Mentors’ mission of providing youth with hands-on hunting, fishing, and outdoor experiences alongside dedicated mentors.

Through this grant, Pass It On Outdoor Mentors will be able to increase access to outdoor opportunities for young people, many of whom might not otherwise have the chance to experience hunting and fishing. By engaging mentors and creating structured outdoor experiences, the organization ensures that conservation values and traditions are passed down to the next generation.

“We are honored to receive this grant from the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund,” said Brittany French, CEO of Pass It On Outdoor Mentors. “Their commitment to introducing more youth to the outdoors aligns perfectly with our mission. With their support, we can give even more young people the life-changing opportunity to hunt, fish, and develop a lifelong passion for conservation.”

The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund is fueled by generous donations from customers who round up their purchases at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s stores nationwide. These contributions support initiatives aimed at connecting new audiences to the outdoors, conserving wildlife and habitat, and advocating for sportsmen’s rights.

This grant will help Pass It On Outdoor Mentors expand programming, increase mentor recruitment, and provide essential resources for youth hunting and fishing events. By working together, both organizations ensure that America’s outdoor heritage is carried forward for generations to come.

About Pass It On Outdoor Mentors

Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors is dedicated to connecting youth and volunteer mentors through outdoor experiences, fostering the next generation of hunters and anglers. By creating ongoing opportunities, the organization aims to positively impact the lives of young people and promote the conservation of our natural resources. Learn more at www.outdoormentors.org or follow us on social media.

About the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund

The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity that supports conservation organizations across North America. By bringing together customers alongside dedicated team members, industry partners and leading conservation organizations, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s is creating North America’s largest conservation movement to collectively shape the future of the outdoors and all who love it for generations to come.

###

Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Wins Bills to Allow Hunter Education in Michigan and Illinois Schools

Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Written by YAH Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #congressionalsportsmensfoundation, #youthbowhunting

Why It Matters: Hunters are the backbone of conservation and to continue carrying that banner, new sportsmen and women must be exposed to the woods and fields. However, as fewer folks dress themselves in camouflage and orange, there are fewer to pass on our time-honored outdoor traditions to new generations. Allowing schools to instruct safe firearm handling practices and safe hunting practices is an opportunity to fill that void and spark a lifelong passion.

Highlights:

  • In Michigan, Caucus Co-Chair Senator Jon Bumstead authored Michigan Senate Bill 58, and in Illinois, Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair Neil Anderson introduced Illinois Senate Bill 1210.
  • Both of these bills would allow schools in their respective states to offer firearm safety courses, including instruction on hunter safety.
  • Implementing hunter education in schools is a state-level policy priority of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), which will support the passage of these bills and others like them throughout the country.

Michigan Senate Bill 58 is a reintroduction of legislation that passed the Senate 32-1 in late 2024 and had significant bipartisan support in the House. Introduced by Michigan Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair Senator Jon Bumstead and co-sponsored by fellow Co-Chair Senator John Cherry, the legislation would mandate that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources collaborate with the Michigan Department of Education to adopt and make available to schools a model program of firearm safety instruction. The course would both count as an elective credit and qualify as the classroom portion of Michigan’s hunter education requirement.

Illinois Senate Bill 1210, introduced by Illinois Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair Senator Neil Anderson, would allow school districts to offer an elective firearm safety course to 9th through 12th graders and may include hunter safety instruction. Like the Michigan bill, firearms would not be brought into the classroom.

The courses established by these bills would instruct students on proper firearm handling, safety, storage, and maintenance, while exposing students to hunting and the numerous benefits that it provides to conservation and society at large. However, it is also worth noting that both bills simply require the development of the curriculum, allowing school districts to make their own decisions about offering such courses. Introducing younger generations to hunting, especially those that may not have friends and family members equipped to do so, is paramount to protecting and advancing hunting, and therefore, wildlife conservation. CSF is proud to support the passage of these bills and will work to do so at each stage of the legislative process.

Visit https://congressionalsportsmen.org/