What surprised you most about archery?
Probably the people. Everybody is super nice and supportive. I didn’t expect to make so many friends, especially in a competitive sport like archery.
What motivates you to get up and train every day?
Honestly, I would like to be one of the best. I don’t always feel like shooting, but I know in the end it’s going to make me better. Sometimes you have to push through the laziness and just go out and shoot.
What challenges you in practice?
The biggest challenge for me in practice is staying focused on what I’m doing, it’s very mental. It can be very tedious shooting at a blank bale for hours. Even when shooting at a target I can get distracted on how someone else is doing, or how I have to shoot this many 10’s to make my goal. It’s difficult some days but I’m working on it.
What do you think helps improve your game the most?
Probably my mental program, making sure everything is the same, every single time so I’m able to make my best shot each time.
How does homeschooling support your archery lifestyle?
It definitely helps with training, I’m able to get my homework done in a couple of hours and then shoot for however long I need. I’m also able to be more flexible with my schedule. If I have a competition I can do a few extra pages earlier in the week and not have to worry about it.
What do you look forward to most in the upcoming season?
First off, I’m excited about going to Vegas and Lancaster. I’ve never been before, and I hear they’re amazing tournaments. I know they’ll push me, and will be a huge learning experience. Second, I love seeing everyone! Meeting new friends, catching up with old ones. It’s one of the best parts of shooting.
What do you like best about coaching archery?
The best thing is probably watching them succeed and grow as archers. Seeing them reach their goals is very rewarding. I also learn a lot by coaching, a problem may arise and I have to think of a way to fix it, but also a way for them to understand how and why we are doing what we’re doing. It puts a new perspective on things.
The Archers Association of America negotiates discounts in travel and archery equipment for archers of all disciplines. To learn more or sign up, go to www.archersassociation.org.