January –
I started homeschooling four years ago, and now I’m in 9th grade. In January of last year, I joined a homeschool archery team, and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Being part of this team has allowed me to connect with other homeschooled kids, which has been so refreshing. I’ve made many friends—not only on my own team but also on others—through practices and competitions. The NASP® (National Archery in the Schools Program) has truly changed my life and helped me grow in countless ways.
NASP® means so much to me. It has helped me become a more confident person, made me less worried about what others think, and allowed me to be more comfortable just being myself. The lessons I’ve learned through archery have helped me grow both as an athlete and as a person.
Archery is my happy place. It’s one of the rare times I can completely clear my mind. When I’m standing on the line, everything else just fades away—it’s just me, my bow, and the target. That sense of calm focus is one of the things I love most about the sport.
From the moment I started shooting, I fell in love with archery. I’d tried so many activities before, searching for something that truly felt like “my thing” or where I fit in, and archery gave me that feeling right from the start. Of course, I wasn’t very good when I began—who is? My groupings were large and inconsistent, as you can see below. But with time, lots of practice, and encouragement from my team, I improved.
NASP® competitions, in particular, have been a game-changer for me. They’ve taught me focus, discipline, and how to perform under pressure. Over time, my groupings have become tighter and more consistent, which has led to a big improvement in my scores. When I first started, I was shooting in the 240s. Now, I consistently score in the high 270s to low 280s at almost every competition.
This season has been especially rewarding. I’ve managed to place in the top 5 in either 3D, Bullseye, or even both at every competition I’ve attended. I’ve even hit the occasional perfect 50, which always feels amazing!
NASP® has truly changed my life. I still remember my very first competition—I was so nervous. I worried about how others would judge my shooting or if they would look down on me because I’m homeschooled. But all I received was support. The NASP® archery program really is such an amazing community! I’ve made friendships that I believe will last a lifetime and have met so many incredible people. I am especially grateful for the people who run the local and official NASP competitions.
It has taken me a long time to find my place. I’ve tried gymnastics, cheerleading, and even jujitsu, but nothing ever felt quite right. Archery, though, is different. Archery is my thing, and the NASP® archery program is where I fit in. I think it will stay that way for a long, long time.
