The Washington State Junior Program is a priority of all Washington pitchers.  2006 saw our junior membership grow to 23 pitchers.   The State has two scholarship programs in place.  When a Jr. reaches 18 and has been actively involved for three years, they are eligible to apply for a $1000 college or tech school scholarship.  In addition, Art (our Jr. Promo Chairman) and Carol Sperber have set up a personal scholarship fund which can be applied for also.   Each year the State raises funds to help send as many juniors to the World Tournament as possible.  This is done by raffles, 50/50 draws, donated items that are bid for and generous donations by individuals.  This year 5 attended the Gillette, Wyo. Tournament.  Each was given $450 to assist with expenses.   Three State clubs work with the local high schools in putting on demonstrations to encourage students to become involved.  One club has been able to get horseshoe pitching adapted as part of the high school P.E. program for 6 weeks each spring.  At the end of the 6 week program, a competitive tournament between three high schools is sponsored by the club.   Also this year one of our clubs spent all day at the courts where the Boy Scouts were having a jamboree and doing many activities to earn badges.  Horseshoe pitching was one of the activities they could participate in.  It was met with lots of enthusiasm from the boys.   We are very proud of our junior pitchers and realize they are the future of our sport.