Does marksmanship play a role in Naval Academy training?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy and I have a strong interest in marksmanship. How integral is it to the training there? Is it a skill that might help my application?

The U.S. Naval Academy certainly incorporates marksmanship into their training. As future officers, midshipmen must have a basic proficiency in firearm handling and safety. During Plebe Summer, they are trained in usage of the M16 rifle and the M9 Pistol. The Naval Academy also has the Rifle and Pistol Club, where midshipmen can participate in intercollegiate competitions. Additionally, there are competitive sports teams for rifle and pistol which are an integral part of the Academy’s athletic department.

In terms of your application, marksmanship might not directly benefit it as most of the academy's assessment is focused on academic readiness, physical aptitude, and moral character. However, a demonstrated interest in, or aptitude for, growing, honing, and using a skill like marksmanship can be interpreted as a testament to discipline, focus, and perseverance - qualities commonly sought after in the midshipmen community. For instance, if you have achieved recognition in marksmanship competitions or have spent a significant amount of time learning and perfecting this skill, such experiences can help showcase these qualities.

Remember, how you've developed through engaging in a particular activity can prove more significant to your application than simply listing the activity itself.