Although a bow and an arrow may seem intimidating to those new to the sport, the Archery Club requires no prior experience.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s Archery Club is a place where students interested in the sport can improve and find a community of archers.
Abigail Thomas, a junior liberal arts major and vice president of operations for the Archery Club, said her main advice to those interested would be to not worry about being skillful or having experience.
“Everyone is very nice, and it is not at all necessary to have experience. We can help people learn or improve. All it takes is showing up and practicing,” Thomas said.
The process to get started is as simple as filling out a form, completing the required hazing training and learning safety range rules. The first semester is free, and every semester after costs a fee of $20, said Olivia Horrel, a senior elementary education and hospitality, management and tourism major and president of the Archery Club.
Crucial parts of the Archery Club are the welcoming community and a comfortable atmosphere. This way, their members feel secure in failing because they know their teammates will help them learn and improve.
Amelia Forestier, a junior liberal arts major and the secretary of the club, noted one of the best parts of archery is the team that comes with it.
“While I have loved the activity itself a great deal, it’s been the social aspect of our club that has shined,” Forestier said. “Being in the club has been a major highlight of college for me, providing a lot of connection while having fun together.”
Along with the need for a non-judgemental community, safety is also a major concern for the club. Members, whether beginners or experienced, have to do the proper safety training before getting to shoot a bow.
“We always have to check our equipment and make sure. Even if you’ve shot before, you need to know what our range rules are and make sure everyone’s safe, and then the fun is second.”
The Archery Club provides a laid-back, secure environment for anyone interested. They assure their members that it’s okay to fail and not be perfect because they’ll come back stronger by learning and improving.
The team practices every Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Health and Human Performance building.
