NSSF is pleased to announce the release of the 2016 Industry Intelligence Report on the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF). SSSF promotes youth development in the shooting sports, with its Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) arm focusing on sporting clays, trap and skeet and the Scholastic Action Shooting Program (SASP) working with action pistol and rifle sports.
The 2016 Industry Intelligence Report on the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation reports on the findings of a recent research project that examined the demographics, shooting habits and spending habits of those youths enrolled in the program in 2015. Indicative of the program’s success and its importance to the continued viability of the shooting industry as a whole, some of the most important findings from the report include:
From 2013 to 2015 the number of youth athletes participating in SASP grew 49 percent; growth in SCTP since the program’s inception in 2001 is an impressive 1,682 percent, with current participant numbers standing at nearly 12,500.
93 percent of SCTP parents surveyed said that the program had had a positive influence on their children; 52 percent said they saw their child’s grades improve after participating SSSF programs.
Estimates derived from the survey indicate that those participating in SCTP will spend more than $8 million dollars in 2016; 97 percent have made a purchase relevant to the shooting sports since becoming involved in SCTP.
“We are very pleased with the results of this report,” said Randy Clark, Managing Director, Business Development. “Both the hard numbers and the testimonials from parents, participants, ranges, manufacturers and state agencies tell us that this program is invaluable in getting youth involved in the shooting sports and retaining them. That translates directly to income and growth for the industry, both immediately and long-term.”
“The Industry Intelligence Report (IIR) is an outstanding resource for our staff, state advisors, volunteer program coaches and anyone considering starting or sponsoring a local team,” said Ben Berka, SSSF President and Executive Director. “The report showcases how the Scholastic Clay Target and Scholastic Action Shooting Programs recruit youth and families to the shooting sports, promote firearms education and make a positive impact on youth development across the country.”
The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation operates in all 50 states, coordinating teams at the elementary school through high school level, as well as with collegiate organizations. For more information, visit www.sssfonline.org.
NSSF’s 2016 Industry Intelligence Report on the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation is available to the public free of charge, and firearms industry retailers, ranges and manufacturers are particularly encouraged to download the report. “There’s a tremendous amount of insight our members can gain from this report,” said Clark. “It’s a great foundation for creating fresh marketing and outreach plans.”
