My introduction to archery began with the National Archery in the Schools Program. NASP® granted me my start in competitive archery. I quickly fell in love with the mental aspects of archery, however, I did struggle with this for a while, as most archers do. That being said, after I began to be successful, I soon wanted to try out other forms of archery.
There are many different forms of archery. You can shoot compound, olympic recurve, barebow, and even crossbow, which is recognized in some organizations. All of these different types of equipment change the game of archery you are playing, but the mental aspect of archery stays the same. I credit my introduction to NASP® for assisting me with the mental side of archery.
I now have transitioned to shooting a compound open setup, meaning a moveable sight, while also continuing to compete in my school’s NASP program. I started shooting IBO and ASA, forms of 3D archery, with a compound bow at 30 yards. Since then, I have adapted to shooting 3D from a longer range of 40 yards as I have moved up in classes. In most organizations, classes refer to the equipment and age category. For example, I shoot an Open Compound set-up and decide to shoot with the women (18 and up age bracket). I now no longer shoot IBO, but 3D archery in general still has a place in my heart and I love the ASA game.
I now also participate in other archery organizations such as S3DA, NFAA, and USA Archery. Each of these organizations offers different disciplines in archery. I have valued my experiences in each field of archery, but I still enjoy 3D and 50 meters the most. However, I owe a majority of my success in archery to NASP®. NASP® gave me a foundation for my form and mental game. I find many of the lessons from NASP® I can apply to other forms of archery.
All in all, NASP® archery was my gateway to other forms of archery. I have enjoyed my time in all of archery, and I am excited to continue doing this sport, hopefully for life. NASP® archery is something I would recommend to any young starting shooter, however, I find it equally important to participate in other forms of archery as well, as you age and graduate from high school.
I would suggest to any NASP® archer to try other forms of archery along with NASP!