Maeve Kiley
“Whether you are a beginning, intermediate, or even advanced archer, archery will give you something almost impossible to find elsewhere." — USA Archery.
Archery is one of the oldest sports, dating back to 65,000 years ago. The command of the bow and string transcends all cultures, with almost every culture developing its version of the bow and arrow. According to historical records, the Huns and Mongols were effective mount archers who used their technique to ambush and conquer neighboring lands. The Comanche Tribe of the Southern Great Plains were expert archers, combining the art of the arrow alongside their masterful horseback riding. In the Hundred Years War, English soldiers utilized the longbow for long-distance combat, while their French counterparts had crossbowmen who could fire up to 3-5 bolts per minute. No matter the time or the place, archery is an essential part of thousands of cultures and an unparalleled aspect of humankind’s anthropological heritage.
Unfortunately, some today consider archery a ‘niche,’ and many media outlets put it on the back burner. However, archery is on the rise. In 2020, there were 17.6 million recreational and 5.4 million competitive archers (Archerytrade.org). One of the main reasons for this rapid growth is archery’s physical and mental benefits. According to National Archery in the Schools Program studies, archery boosts energy while strengthening and soothing muscles through controlled movement. Archery requires intense mental discipline, such as clearing and relaxing the mind to improve aim, which weakens the grip the high-paced, anxious world has on the archer. Archery is also commonly done outdoors, thus allowing archers to experience the stress-reducing and cognitive-enhancing benefits of the great outdoors. Archery also holds great cultural significance to many ethnic groups, allowing archers to feel a close, intimate bond with their culture and ancestors. The fluid movements and ancient techniques unite past and present, illuminating a cultural bond that dates back centuries.
Although these benefits greatly aid adults, they exponentially aid children. According to research conducted by West Virginia DNR, children who participate in archery have fine-tuned motor skills, a stronger sense of community with their peers, more strength and athletic prowess, higher rates of self-actualization, and better emotional control. Archery teaches the importance of self-control and balance, allowing children to practice meaningful life skills and gain confidence in their abilities.
Unfortunately, archery is an expensive sport. The cost of bow, arrow, and lessons can quickly rack up the monthly bills, not to mention the price of classes, which can range from $15-20 per session. Less financially advantaged children cannot participate in archery due to these limitations. However, that is changing with How-Kota 4-H Archers.
Located in South Dakota, How-Kota 4-H Archers has launched new initiatives to provide bows, arrows, and classes to children who cannot afford them. They frequently host open houses, allowing archers of all ages to attend and practice their skills.
These resources are not free. How-Kota 4-H must pay for all these resources and classes out-of-pocket. To allow their good work to continue, they need donations. Any donation—from $5 to $500—directly goes to free archery equipment for young archers. The archery community appreciates all help. With your aid and sponsorship, a new generation of archers can help change the world!
Help to ensure that all children, no matter the financial barrier, can learn archery today by visiting the GoFundMe page HERE:
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