My son, Quinn Hobbs, is 11 years old and in the 5th grade. Quinn also has Autism and ADHD, diagnosed when he was only 3 years old. It has been difficult to get him to participate in things where socializing happens or where he is being “watched”. Blue Eye R-V Schools in Blue Eye, Missouri implemented archery last year for the first time ever.
Quinn was part of that pilot year as a 4th grader. Our head coach, Michael Horn, is amazing. He is patient, kind, and works so well with the students. He took a group of random 4th graders and made them into archers and a team, but most of all he made them a family! All the students would cheer each other on and advocate for each other. They accepted each other’s differences.
A person with Autism and ADHD finds it difficult to focus. Archery has provided Quinn an outlet to assist with that. He has more focus, discipline, and self-control because of archery. He has gained self-confidence in himself and that has carried into his work in the classroom. Archery has opened new doors for my son. He is branching out more and trying new things! It is amazing to me as a parent and coach that NASP® does everything in their power to reduce barriers for students so that they can participate and have success. I cannot begin to tell you what an impact archery has had for Quinn!
