Local archers learn, compete

Archery is a great sport or activity to get involved in. I first became involved in archery my seventh grade year when I joined the newly formed archery program, not knowing if this is something I would even like. Like any other kid who starts out, I missed the target more than enough times. Later on that year at the state tournament, I came in fifth in the state. I seemed to have gotten better as the year progressed and everyone was impressed, even my older brother. I was loving it more all the time. The NASP program uses a genesis bow and the archer must use her fingers to draw back. Just after drawing back a few times, my fingers would have deep, red marks that hurt, but that was just part of it. I enjoyed archery so much, I eventually bought a compound bow to practice with. I was then able to compete at the Show-Me games with people from all over the state and all ages.
One benefit of archery is that it makes me feel powerful. I was never into sports, but with archery I can achieve something. It takes skills, patience, and a bit of focus. It is friendly competition that I can achieve for myself and nothing can stand in my way. It allows me to show who I really am to others, but don’t feel upset when someone with better skills won. They just push me to work harder, knowing that I, too, could hone my skills and have a better score next time.
The Archery Trade Association states, “Once the kids realize they can only shoot if they follow the rules, they get it. I’ve seen even kids with the worse behavioral problems straighten up because they know if they follow the rules, they can shoot. It’s like magic.”
Archery requires a lot of skill, concentration, and determination. It helps a student gain more confidence in themselves.
Schools nationwide have discovered, that archery helps kids with concentration and life skills.
Kids who have previously had behavioral problems have straightened up because they know they can’t shoot if they don’t follow the rules.
Wyatt Kingston, recreation specialist for the city of Richmond, Virginia states, “Archery is the only sport I’ve seen that is this structured. Kids learn to wait their turn, follow directions, set goals, and challenge themselves. Once they’re instructed, hardly any of my students cause problems. Archery develops character, and these students can benefit the rest of their lives.” What this guy stated is my belief and opinions on the mark.
Schools who don’t offer archery to their students and community are doing a huge disservice.
Archery has changed my life for the better and I miss competing with my classmates.