YOUTH
Bel Air Council Youth Activities
Since the early days of its founding through its protection of the orphans of its members, the Knights of Columbus has worked to provide for the welfare of young people.
Through sponsoring sports activities and championships, youth groups, educational programs, scholarships, and a variety of other initiatives, the Knights look to foster development of young people as they follow their paths to adulthood.
Scouting: Knight’s involvement in Scouting has existed virtually from BSA’s beginning. The close link between the two organizations is reflected in the fact that Christian Brother Barnabas McDonald, founder of the Columbian Squires in 1925, also served as co-founder of the Catholic Committee on Scouting in the early 1920s. Knights assist Scouts in such areas as financial aid, use of facilities and collaboration on fundraising and other projects. For approximately 30 years, Bel Air Council has been the Charter Organization for Cub Scout Pack 999 and Boy Scout Troop 999.
August – Soccer Shootout at The John Carroll School: The Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge is a competition designed for players to demonstrate the most basic soccer skill – the penalty kick. Open to all boys and girls in your community, ages 9-14, where each player will be allowed 15 shots at the goal from the penalty line (12 yards from the goal). Winners progress to the district, regional, state and international levels.
December – Keep Christ in Christmas Poster Contest: In a society where Christmas has become for many – especially children – a secular holiday. To combat this, the Knights of Columbus has introduced the Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest. This program will allow young people to engage their creative talents and imaginations while understanding the true, spiritual meaning of Christmas. Entries in the Knights of Columbus “Keep Christ in Christmas” Poster contest must include a slogan reflecting the topic and an original visual image. Bel Air Council typically hosts this contest with both St. Margaret’s School and St. Mark’s CCD participating.
January – Free Throw Championship at The John Carroll School: Since 1972, councils have sponsored the Knights of Columbus International Free Throw Championship for boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 14. The championship is set up to have the contestants compete within their own gender and age group. All competition starts at the local level. Winners move on to the district, regional, and state or provincial levels. From there, some make it to the international level for championship competition in their group.
