The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) has appointed Kevin Kozel as its new Executive Director. Kozel replaces previous Executive Director Cyndi Flannigan, who announced her intention to retire from YSSA in January 2024.
Kozel has a long history as a successful entrepreneur and an extensive corporate career, including senior and executive leadership roles in the defense contracting industry as well as ammunition manufacturing, firearms sales and distribution, and hunting lodge management.
Kozel’s passion for youth shooting sports began when his son Tristan and daughter Kyleigh competed in shotgun sports. “Being on a shooting team taught them good sportsmanship, values of commitment, and the ability to learn from both winning and losing,” Kozel said. “It’s helped them develop into confident young adults.”
Kozel has been involved in youth shooting sports programs for over 14 years as a parent, head coach, state director-at-large, advisor and industry sponsor. All those years of practice, travel, events and meetings highlighted the need for lasting partnerships with industry leaders to support the success of both shooting teams and the industry.
“I am honored to accept the challenge and opportunity to lead the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance into our next generation of growth,” Kozel said. “The YSSA Board of Directors and I share a vision to assist the young shooters of tomorrow realize their potential and dreams.”
Past Executive Director Flannigan shares Kozel’s excitement for the future of the organization.
“The Board couldn’t have found a more passionate leader to take YSSA to new levels and continue its support for youth development programs all across our country,” Flannigan said. “Passing the reins is difficult when it’s been your passion for so long; however, I believe the time for growth is now, and Kevin will certainly do that.”
The YSSA Board of Directors thanks Flannigan for her leadership and passion over her tenure leading the organization and wishes her the best in retirement. She has been a great partner to many organizations, and her passion for the shooting sports has shined brightly across the country.
About YSSA: The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance was founded in 2007, an offshoot of the National 4-H Youth Shooting Sports program. To date, the YSSA has loaned and donated equipment to youth programs across the country, benefiting more than 120,000 youth.
To learn more about the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance, please visit youthshootingsa.com.
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