Hoop Shoot

The National Elks Hoop Shoot is a free throw program that allows boys and girls between 8 and 13 the opportunity to participate in a fun, age-appropriate program that sets them up for future success.  The program has been developing gritty kids for over 50 years, long before researchers and experts concluded that grit was the most accurate indicator of future success.

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A Legacy of Leadership: The History of the Elks Hoop Shoot Program

The Elks Hoop Shoot program is one of the longest-running youth sports initiatives in the United States, combining athletic competition with values of discipline, hard work, and community engagement. Founded by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), the Hoop Shoot has grown from a small local contest into a national institution that has impacted millions of young lives.

Humble Beginnings

The roots of the Elks Hoop Shoot can be traced back to 1946 in Corvallis, Oregon. Frank Hise, a member of Elks Lodge #1413, introduced a free throw shooting contest as a way to promote physical activity and sportsmanship among youth. The simple but engaging format of shooting 25 free throws appealed to children and adults alike. Hise’s program quickly gained popularity within the state, and its success caught the attention of the national Elks organization.

In 1972, the Elks officially adopted the Hoop Shoot as a national program. What began as a grassroots initiative now had the full support of a national fraternal organization with thousands of lodges across the country. That year marked the first official national finals, hosted in Kansas City, Missouri. Since then, the Hoop Shoot has become a hallmark of the Elks’ commitment to youth development.

Garden Grove District Hoop Shoot contest 2024 at Garden Grove High School. Paul Escobar was officiating at the line.

Structure and Growth

The Elks Hoop Shoot is open to boys and girls ages 8 to 13, divided into three age categories. The competition begins at the local lodge level and progresses through district, state, and regional contests, culminating in the national finals. Each participant shoots 25 free throws, and in the event of a tie, a series of shoot-offs determines the winner.

Over the years, the program has seen steady growth in participation. At its peak, more than 3 million young athletes took part annually. Today, while participation numbers have fluctuated with changing times, the program remains a respected and enduring youth sports tradition.

A unique aspect of the Hoop Shoot is its emphasis on character as much as competition. Contestants learn resilience, focus, and humility—qualities that serve them both on and off the court. Winners at the national level are enshrined in the Elks Hoop Shoot Hall of Fame, located in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.

CHEA Southern state finals. Eric Skillman with Past State President Jay Larkins and Tina Duarte.

Celebrated Alumni

The Hoop Shoot has produced many notable alumni, including NBA stars and community leaders. Perhaps the most famous alumnus is Chris Mullin, a five-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist. Mullin has often credited the Hoop Shoot with teaching him discipline and mental toughness at a young age.

Beyond professional athletes, the program has helped shape future educators, business professionals, and public servants—underscoring its broader impact on youth development.

Commitment to Community

The Elks organization sees the Hoop Shoot not only as a competition but as a vehicle for service. Local lodges invest countless volunteer hours organizing events, mentoring youth, and fostering a supportive environment. The program also honors excellence in other ways, awarding trophies, plaques, and even college scholarships through related Elks programs.

In recent years, the Hoop Shoot has embraced technology and social media to remain relevant and accessible. Live-streaming of national finals, online registration, and promotional campaigns have helped bring the tradition to a new generation.

Looking Ahead

As the Elks Hoop Shoot celebrates over 50 years as a national program, its future looks promising. With continued support from the Elks National Foundation and local lodges, the Hoop Shoot is poised to remain a key part of the organization’s mission: helping young people build strong futures.

The simple act of shooting a free throw has become a powerful symbol—of persistence, community, and opportunity. Through the Hoop Shoot, the Elks have created more than just a game. They’ve built a legacy.