Youth Development (YDSP)

Overview

The MMSSA Youth Development Shooting Program is a family-friendly, educational gateway into the world of shooting sports. It is specifically designed for youth and their families—parents, grandparents, and guardians—to participate together in a safe and structured environment.

This program emphasizes self-improvement, discipline, and fun without the intense pressure of direct competition. Participants progress at their own pace, competing primarily against their own previous bests while gaining valuable firearm handling skills and range safety knowledge 


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Team Participation


Teams are an essential part of the program. A valid MMSSA YDSP team must:

  1. Be associated with a reputable youth organization (e.g., high schools, colleges, 4-H, ROTC)
  2. Include at least two youth participants—no individual enrollments supported
  3. Have certified adult leaders (coach, assistant coach, and scorekeeper)
  4. Commit to sustainability and ongoing youth recruitment

Each team is expected to foster safe firearm education, teamwork, and personal growth.

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Safety First: Core Values and Range Rules


Safety and Fun Come First!
The MMSSA prioritizes firearm safety through strict, well-defined rules:
    •    All firearms are treated as loaded at all times
    •    Muzzles must be pointed in a safe direction
    •    Eye and ear protection is mandatory for all attendees
    •    No handling of firearms outside designated areas
    •    Only factory or quality reloaded ammunition allowed (no tracers or incendiary rounds)

Range Officers (RSOs) manage each course with standardized range commands:
    •    “Shooter Make Ready”
    •    “Standby”
    •    “Start Signal”

All participants must comply with these commands and maintain safe gun handling throughout the event

Certification and Membership

  • Coaches: Must complete MMSSA RSO/Coach training ($75 initial fee; $35 annual renewal) and pass a background check.

  • Youth Participants: Must hold current MMSSA membership ($25/year).


MidwayUSA Foundation Affiliation


MMSSA teams may affiliate with the MidwayUSA Foundation to receive funding.
All funds must benefit the youth participants.
Teams are responsible for transparent accounting and may be audited to ensure compliance

Join the Movement

Whether you’re a young shooter just getting started, or a coach looking to form a team, MMSSA YDSP offers a welcoming and structured path into the world of shooting sports. Join us in making shooting safe, educational, and fun—for the whole family.