The Porter County Salvation Army Corp Archery program members are getting ready for a competition in three weeks in Marion, Indiana.
“We have lost to them the last three years and I want to beat them this year,” joked Donovan Sanchez, 14, of Portage.
“I like this program because I am very competitive,” Donovan said. “The hardest part is the accuracy. Anyone can pick up a bow but if you don’t shoot accurate you are not going to do well.”
The advanced group practiced on Thursday evening at the Porter County Salvation Army Chapel, working on their whistle commands with precision, shooting and knowing all the terms and being able to answer questions.
“Archery is not a typical sport; it’s a unique discipline that has recently been gaining traction, despite its rarity,” said Daijah Webb, one of the program coaches. “Unlike traditional sports that require running or catching, archery is less physically demanding, yet it teaches essential mental skills just as effectively.”
“Three years ago, our organization decided to offer archery as a new activity,” said Webb. “At the start, we only had 10 kids sign up. Fast forward to this season, and we now have an average of 53 participants.”
Patrick Thomas, 11, of Portage, has won first place in his pre-teen category for the past three tournaments.
“I like how great it is to meet new people,” Patrick said. “You also have a lot to learn like the parts of the bow and all the rules you have to memorize.”
Archers have to know the 11 steps of archery and memorize a diagram of all the parts of the bow. Bows vary in size and weight.
“Our team operates with the motto ‘Nothing but the target,’” said Webb. “For our young archers, this serves as a reminder that focus is crucial; in that moment, nothing else matters but hitting the target.”
“We encourage entering archery practice with a clear mind, as distractions can hinder performance,” said Webb. “Archery also provides a valuable escape for students, allowing them to leave behind the stresses of their day and concentrate on their goals.”
“Our archery program continues to grow,” said Webb. “The program provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn not just the sport, but also life skills that will serve them well in all aspects of their life.”
For more information on the Salvation Army and its archery program, contact Daijah.Webb@usc.salvationarmy.org
Deena Lawley-Dixon is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
