Phoenix Elks National Hoop Shoot

What is Hoop Shoot?

The Elks National Hoop Shoot is a free‑throw contest for kids ages 8–13, running for 50+ years and open to all boys and girls. Contestants compete in six divisions (boys & girls: 8–9, 10–11, 12–13), typically taking 25 scored free throws. Local Lodge champions advance to District, then State, then Regionals—and ultimately the National Finals, where six champions are inscribed at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Phoenix #335 Path

• School Contests: We partner with area schools to host in‑school free‑throw contests. The top shooter in each age/gender division advances to the Lodge contest.
• Lodge Contest: Held the second Saturday of December (location TBD). Division winners move on to District, then State, then Nationals. (We’ll confirm exact time/place to all signups.)

Age is determined as of April 1 of the Hoop Shoot season year (e.g., 8–13 as of April 1, 2025). :

Why participate?

• Build grit, focus, and confidence.
• Compete locally with a path to national recognition.
• Program is free for all contestants.

Resources

• Official Hoop Shoot home page (ages, schedule, and finals info).
• All about Hoop Shoot.
• How to host a school or community shoot (playbook).

Schools: Partner With Us

Phoenix #335 provides volunteers, scoring sheets, and contest materials to help you run an on‑campus preliminary shoot during recess, P.E., or an assembly. Your division winners advance to our Lodge contest (second Saturday in December). We’ll coordinate dates, gym access, and equipment needs with your staff.

Hosting guidance is available in the national playbook, including checklists and sample scripts.