The Student Air Rifle Program (SAR) celebrates its 10th anniversary this month. This marks a decade of enhancing youth development through firearms safety and target shooting education.
OK, so this is some really worthwhile news! We should all thank Jake Hindman, the Founder and President of the Student Air Rifle Program for his vision, dedication and determination in attracting youth into the outdoors, responsibility and safe, enjoyable target shooting. That’s Jake standing far left in our heading photograph above.
Since its first pilot in 2014, followed by nonprofit incorporation in 2016, SAR has grown from a visionary initiative into a cornerstone of the shooting sports community, serving more than 30,000 students across the nation.
Modeled after the successful National Archery in Schools Program (NASP®), SAR integrates a focused curriculum into school physical education programs, after-school clubs, and outdoor groups. Over 600 Basic Air Riflery Instructors across 11 states are leading safe, structured, and fun programs that help students “Shoot for Success” on the range and in life.
“Target shooting is an incredible life-time sport that builds teamwork, accountability and excellence,” said Jake Hindman, Founder, President, and CEO of SAR. “We are thrilled to have spent the last decade helping students find success in a safe, structured, and fun format”.
A Decade of Impact: Key Findings from the 2025 Report
According to the latest SAR student survey conducted by Southwick Associates and funded through a Multistate Conservation Grant, the program is a powerful driver for both personal growth and the shooting sports industry.
• Holistic Youth Development:
SAR delivers on its mission to promote positive youth development; 51% of participants feel a sense of pride in acquiring new skills, while 28% report increased confidence in other areas of their lives. Additionally, 31% of students noted an improved ability to focus on tasks.
• Fostering Future Conservationists:
The program bridges the gap between the range and the field, with 55% of participants expressing interest in or having already taken a hunter education class. Furthermore, 65% of youth reported an increase in their interest in hunting since joining SAR.
• Economic & Recruitment Engine:
SAR has generated over $8 million in direct retail spending on target shooting equipment since its inception. It also serves as a critical entry point for the sport; over 10% of participants had never shot any type of firearm prior to joining the program.
• The Multiplier Effect:
The program’s reach extends beyond the classroom; for every three students in the program, one additional person (friend or family member) is introduced to target shooting.
The Next Decade: A Clear Sight Picture
As SAR enters its second decade, the focus will be on expansion and deepening the student experience. Survey results indicate a strong desire for growth, with 38% of participants interested in continuing the sport beyond high school and many expressing a desire for more competitive opportunities similar to other school-based sports.
With nearly 40% of students eager for more events, SAR is committed to growing its network of instructors and schools to meet this demand.
The next ten years will focus on eliminating barriers to participation and ensuring that every student has the mentorship and opportunity to continue their journey in the shooting sports and the outdoors.
About the Student Air Rifle Program (SAR)
SAR, developed by the Missouri Youth Sport Shooting Alliance (MYSSA™), is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. SAR uses school aligned units of study, teacher training, universal whistle commands, positive language, and standardized equipment to facilitate an introduction to the lifetime sport of target shooting to school-aged youth in grades 4 through 12. Follow SAR on Facebook and Instagram by searching “Student Air Rifle Program-SAR”.
For more information about the Student Air Rifle Program (SAR), visit Student Air Rifle Program.
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