Each year since 2009, the National Rifle Association’s Youth Programs Division has partnered with select youth organizations and outstanding young shooters as part of the NRA National Youth Shooting Sports Ambassadors program Presented by Brownells. During their term, Ambassadors provide perspective and serve as advisers on youth shooting sports topics. Not only does the Youth Ambassador program encourage growth of the shooting sports, but it also encourages increased industry support of youth shooting. This year, they are proud to introduce the 2017 team. This team, which includes representatives from Boy Scouts of America, BSA Venturing, National High School Rodeo Association, Royal Rangers and USA Shooting represents some of the best minds of the next generation.
The Ambassadors are nominated by their respective organizations following a rigorous application process, taking into account not only their involvement in the shooting sports but their academic performance, leadership skills and commitment to their communities.
The 2017 NRA National Youth Shooting Sports Ambassadors Presented by Brownells are:
Representing the National High School Rodeo Association: Taylor Rain Holland of Bee Branch, Arkansas (pictured above). Taylor, 17, is both a crack shot with her shotgun and all-round rodeo athlete. She competes in American Trap at the National High School Rodeo Finals, as well as in International Trap.
Representing Boy Scouts of America: Keaton James Sharp of Magnolia, Texas. Keaton, 18, is a high school senior, Eagle Scout and competitive shotgun shooter, participating mostly in International Trap.
Representing BSA Venturing: Jamie Marie Lear of Perryton, Texas. Jamie, 18, has earned numerous venturing awards, including the Silver and Gold Awards. Jamie is experienced in shooting and archery, and favors shotgun shooting. A freshman at Oklahoma State University, Jamie is active in the university’s Shotgun Club.
Representing the Royal Rangers: Mason Haynes of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. At 17, Mason is this year’s youngest Ambassador. Mason enjoys rifle sports and competes at the state and regional levels in muzzleloader, rifle, pistol and shotgun. He is truly passionate about teaching others about the shooting sports and participates in various Royal Rangers and other shooting events in his community.
Representing USA Shooting: Lydia Paterson of Kansas City, Kansas. Lydia, 19, is the most experienced of this year’s Ambassadors, having recently competed in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, competing in Air Pistol. Lydia is a sophomore at the University of St. Mary, where she is working toward a degree in Biology.
Representing the NRA: Trevor Goin of Prospect, Virginia. Trevor, 19, is an all-around shooter whose first love is shotgun shooting. He has competed in Virginia 4-H shooting since age 11. Trevor is the 2016 recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Youth Award, which honors outstanding youth participation in the shooting sports.
Congratulations to this year's Ambassadors! We look forward to great things from you.
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