Discover Soaring Scholarship

The SSA’s Discover Soaring Scholarship is a grassroots effort to get young people acquainted with soaring. It is named after the first “utility” training glider in production, built for “air-minded youth” of the 1930s. The Cadet featured an enclosed fuselage and landing wheel, reasonable soaring performance yet rugged construction: an all-in-one beginner’s glider. On July 2, 1930, a Cadet made the first soaring flight from Harris Hill, Elmira, NY. Jack O’Meara’s one-and-a-half hours in the air cemented the choice of the site for the first National Glider Contest that Fall. The National Soaring Museum stands there today. Winners of scholarships and several smaller prizes are selected each year from young non-pilot applicants who visit a USA gliderport and make a good case for their desire to learn to fly, financial need, and promise in other aspects of life.

FIRST PRIZE (up to 10): Up to $750 in credit for the recipient for use at their soaring organization, USA Soaring Club or Commercial Operator that sponsors the entry. The funds must be used for glider flying lessons. Applications will be judged by members of the SSA Junior Youth Committee. The number of prizes awarded may vary based on entries received.

SECOND PRIZE (up to 5): Introductory books on gliding and soaring.

THIRD PRIZE (up to 6): A One-year Youth Membership in SSA, including 12 issues of Soaring magazine.