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Better young Montanans through physical education.

Making a Difference

The Problem We’re Solving

1

Montana’s Public Schools Need Help

Facing tight budgets, Montana schools are struggling to engage students in curricula that support healthy, successful futures.
2

Lagging Support & Compensation

Montana is below the national average in public school support and teacher compensation, impacting educational quality.
3

Decline in Physical Activity & Increased Risk

Physical activity among teens is low, with only 21% of 6-17-year- olds meeting the recommended 60 minutes of daily activity.

Who We Are

100
Schools

Montana Institute of Sport is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving physical education in Montana’s public schools through curriculum support, teaching grants, and professional development.

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Our Purpose

50000
Students

The Montana Institute Of Sport was founded in 2022 by Ali Behnam & JD Stephenson ​with the sole purpose of better young Montanans through physical education. 

The Montana Institute Of Sport was born out of:

  • Only 26% of students meet daily physical activity requirements

  • Montana with a rising cost of living, is below the national average for teacher compensation and public school support

  • Financial constraints in schools, leading to less funding of Physical Education across Montana

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Support The Montana Institute of Sport

Become a partner or donate today.

The Programs We Do With Montana Schools

Try Sport

Indroductions to new and popular sports for Montana youth.

Physical Education Support

Learn more about the youth programs provided by Montana Institute of Sport

Direct Sport Support

Learn more how we support youth sports.

Boots For All

Learn more about our Boots For All program

Tackle Montana

Bringing safe and effective tackle techniques to sport.

TRY Rugby was a fantastic and engaging way to introduce the sport of Rugby to my students. My students loved it, remained engaged the entire class period, and left with new learned skills and tired bodies. Well done!

Kjel OlsonBozeman - Anderson School

I was a bit apprehensive to have TRY Rugby in our school but after having them with us I would certainly do it again! They promoted their sport well but they also lifted up our school sports even more. They are strong advocates for kids getting involved in all activities.

Brett BollwegWhitefish Middle School

I've been looking for something new to add to the curriculum. This fit the bill. The presenter was engaging and able to read the groups and adjust as needed. The enthusiasm of the staff/presenters for the sport is evident. They are genuinely engaging the students to generate interest in the sport.

Jeff MeadSavage Public school

I would recommend TRY Rugby to any school, at any level. My students had the opportunity to learn a new sport and skills from an expert that made the lesson fun and enjoyable. MIS is amazing and I cannot wait to have her back to CFHS next year!

Cydney Finberg-RobertsColumbia Falls High School

TRY Rugby is an excellent way for kids to find an outlet that gives them a chance to express themselves in their own individual way. Rugby is fast growing and students really gravitate to the idea of being involved in an activity that involves physical, mental, and social growth. I would recommend TRY Rugby to any school.

Steve GradyNorth Middle School - Great Falls

TRY Rugby came to our school and introduced the sport of Rugby to high school and middle school students. They loved it so much I had them come back for a second day and introduce it to the elementary kids! I would highly recommend bringing this to your school to let students experience the game of Rugby.

Maggie SpicherNorth Star School - Rudyard/Gildford

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Name

Montana Institute of Sport
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