Knights of Columbus to Host Youth Free Throw Championship in Forest City

FOREST CITY — Local youth basketball players will have a chance to show off their shooting skills later this month as Knights of Columbus Council 7896 hosts the 2026 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship.

The local-level competition is open to boys and girls ages 9 to 14 and will take place Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at the Forest City Civic Auditorium. Warmups will begin at 12:30 p.m., with the contest starting at 1 p.m.

The Free Throw Championship is an annual event sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, giving young athletes the opportunity to compete in age-based divisions. Winners at the local level may advance to district and state competitions. Age eligibility is determined by the participant’s age as of Jan. 1, 2026, and proof of age is required.

Participation in the contest is free, and all local contestants will be recognized for taking part. Participants must provide written parental consent and are asked to bring clean gym shoes for use on the court. Entry forms are available at the Forest City Parks and Recreation office or at the event on the day of the competition.

Those seeking additional information may contact Chad Reece at 641-590-1515.

The Knights of Columbus is an international Catholic fraternal service organization with nearly 1.8 million members worldwide. In the past year, the organization contributed more than 70 million volunteer hours and donated approximately $170 million to charitable and community-focused causes, including programs that support youth and families.