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Kentucky Hoop Shoot

By Emergency Educational Grant Recipient Reed Tabor
When I was first asked by Terry McMichael to come to the Kentucky State Hoop Shoot Contest my first thought was—what is the Elks Hoop Shoot contest? I had no idea what I was getting into but I agreed to come anyway. As soon as I entered the gym I knew this was something serious. You could see the nervousness on the contestants with every shot they took. It was unlike any competition I had seen before, and to these kids it meant everything. That’s when I found out about how the Hoop Shoot works and that these kids weren’t just trying to be the best in the state of Kentucky—they were trying to become the best in the country. 

It was amazing to see the contestants, some of which were half my age, stand at the free throw line and knock down 95 percent of the shots they took. It was a great experience for me to be able to a part of such a great Elks program. It was nice to meet all the Elks volunteers that give so much of their time to make sure the contestants have a wonderful time at the State Hoop Shoot Contest. The Elks are the nicest most caring people I have ever met and truly care about each and every contestant whole-heartedly. I am thankful not only to the Elks for the scholarship I receive, but also for opportunities to be a part of what they do, like the Hoop Shoot contest.

Elks scholars like me want to get involved with your Lodge activities! If you are interested in inviting Elks scholars to volunteer at your Lodge, email scholarship@elks.org for more information. 

 Reed Tabor
2014 Emergency Educational Grant Recipient
Sponsored by Madisonville, Ky., Lodge No. 738

 In 2015-16, the Elks National Foundation allocated $300,000 to fund the Emergency Educational Grant program for children of deceased or totally disabled Elks. If you know any Elks children who may be eligible to receive an Emergency Educational Grant, encourage them to visit www.elks.org/enf/scholars for information, including eligibility and deadlines.
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