The Dowagiac Elks will hold its annual Hoop Shoot Free Throw Contest at the Dowagiac Middle School Dec. 7.

Registration and warm-ups begin at 10 a.m. The contests, which are open to both girls and boys ages 8 to 13, will begin at 11 a.m.

Contestant age groups are determined by their age as of April 1. This program is free to all participants.

Each participant will shoot 25 free throws with each group winner receiving a new basketball and will move on with other winners to the district event.

Ultimately, district winners and family expenses will be paid to attend state, regional and national contests.

The Hoop Shoot provides a character building, competitive experience for all participants. Contestants learn about the importance of respect, good sportsmanship and accepting defeat or winning gracefully.

Through healthy competition and practice, contestants develop skills that aid in achieving school and life success.

A total of 26 youngsters participated in last year’s hoop shoot.

Winning their respective divisions were Jadyn Smith, Nate Judd, Lance Winchester, Megan Davis, Jaleana Payne and Elizabeth Cloud.

The hoop shoot is just one of the Dowagiac Youth Activities sponsored by the Elks Lodge.