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2025-26 national EVENTS
Dec 06-07
Dec 13-14
Dec 19-21
Jan 09-11
Mar 06-08
Mar 26-29
hoosier 690 Pro/Am
Roundtripper Sports academy
Westfield, Indiana
North American Field Archery Championships
Lee County Archers
North Fort Myers, Florida
Iowa Pro/Am Archery Tournament
Iowa Event Center des Moines, iowa
Rushmore Rumble
Indiana Convention center Indianapolis, Indiana
NFAA Indoor National Championships
Renasant convention center memphis, tennessee
The Vegas Shoot
Paris, Horseshoe, and Planet Hollywood Hotels
Las vegas, nevada
BTB & NFAA 1-Arrow 3d National Championships
leagues & Sectionals
Jan 05mar 29 nfaa ranges across the world!
NFAA National Indoor League
NFAA Indoor Sectionals & Indoor National Series
Jan 03mar 23 nfaa ranges across the world!
Fresno, California apr 18-19
May 01-03
July 24-26
july 27-31
Aug 21-22
Aug 22-23
Break the Barriers
nfaa Marked 3d & Western Classic Trail Shoot
Straight Arrow Bowhunters
Redding, California
NFAA Outdoor National Field Championships
NFAA Easton Yankton ARchery Center
Yankton, South Dakota
IFAA World Field ARchery Championships
NFAA Easton Yankton ARchery Center
Yankton, South Dakota
First Dakota Classic
NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center
Yankton, South Dakota
Outdoor National Target Championships
NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center
Yankton, South Dakota
View the full calendar
Table of Contents
Get information on a program dedicated to education for
Boardroom profiles
get a closer look at the individuals guiding the nfaa’s mission and shaping the future of archery.
Outdoor National Field championships articles, photos, and results from the 2025 outdoor national field championships in Mechanicsburg, PA
2025 Pro division Scholarship REcipients
Congratulations to gracen fletcher and sebastien huynh on being named the 2025 nfaa pro division scholarship winners!
Club and Member of the year Nomination submit your nominations for the club and member of the year by december 31!
Outdoor National League: Field & Target
Article and results from the 2025 outdoor national target and field leagues.
2026 Indoor Sectionals get the latest information on the upcoming 2026 indoor sectionals!
Grow the line program find out how to get discounted registration prices on your 2026 Vegas Shoot registration!
The Rumble is moving to indianapolis! Find out all the latest information.
article, photos, and results from the first dakota classic and the outdoor Target Nationals in Yankton, SD.
Find out who your Professional and amateur 3 star shoot off winners aRe.
2025 Shooter of the Year final Rankings, 2026 rules, and articles from each of your 2025 shooters of the year.
2025 Board of Director’s meeting recap review the decisions made by your directors at the 2025 bi-annual meeting.
Boardroom Profiles
Lee Gregory
Southern Councilman
I started my archery career in 1970 when I learned my wife’s brother-in-law was able to hunt a whole month before her older brother and I could. We both bought recurve bows from him so we could start early, and I joined the Tejas Archery Club in Corpus Christi, TX.
Two years later, I bought my first compound bow, and became the club President. After that, I became the Field Governor for the state association. In 1975, I won my first state championship in the Freestyle division. That weekend, my group consisted of my two brothersin-law and Bobby Hunt. At that time, Bobby was one of the best shooters in the NFAA. On day one, I tied the field record, and I set the hunter record on day two. I was hooked! We became considered as “Those damn brothers-in-law.”
I moved from Corpus to Georgetown in Central Texas in 1976 and began to get very involved. In time, I became the Central Texas Governor, editor of the state newspaper, State Director for NFAA, TFAA Tournament Director, and have been the NFAA Southern Councilman since 2005.
In 1985, I opened my own printing business and archery had to slide to second place. I also had shoulder surgery in 2006, which made me have to begin shooting left-handed. Someone suggested that I shoot Barebow to build up my left arm, and I have never changed back. I love Barebow and the people I shoot with.
I have no idea how many state or sectional awards or records I have won, but I do have five national bowls, plus the honor of being elected into the Texas Hall of Fame in 2005. Despite having suffered through several illnesses and a back surgery that could have ended my archery career, I have persevered and still am fighting back to be competitive. I believe I still have one good round left.
I can now say it is no longer just the shooting and competition that I seek, but the companionship of all the friends I have accrued along the way. There is no better way to gather friends than by having them help and support an organization in which you are involved. The challenge of archery and the camaraderie that comes with the association are what keep me active and motivated! What more do you want out of life?
national outdoor field championships
The 2025 NFAA Outdoor National Field Championships was held July 18-20 at the Mechanicsburg Sportsmen’s Association in Pennsylvania. The prestigious 3-day event welcomed archers from across the world to test their skill and endurance across 84 challenging targets—spanning the traditional Field, Hunter, and Animal rounds. This year marked the 80th edition of the championships, continuing a rich tradition of elite-level field archery.
Weather conditions for the event were largely favorable, with warm, sunny skies prevailing for most of the weekend. A brief rain shower on Saturday offered a mid-round test of focus during the Hunter course, but competition resumed without delay, and spirits remained high.
Bodie Turner delivered a standout performance to claim first place in the Professional Male Freestyle division, adding another major title to his growing list of achievements. In the Professional Female Freestyle division, Paige Pearce proved dominant, finishing the weekend on top with steady scores across all three rounds. In addition to the professional competition, the event welcomed 323 archers competing across 60 divisions, spanning amateur, senior, and junior categories. This year also featured a Collegiate Add-On, offering student-athletes the chance to compete for national recognition and scholarship opportunities alongside the main tournament.
Next year, the NFAA Outdoor National Field Championships will rotate to the renowned NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota, and will take place July 24–26, 2026. Immediately following the national event, the venue will host the prestigious IFAA World Field Archery Championships from July 27–31, bringing together top archers from around the globe. It promises to be an exciting and historic week of competition, and we look forward to welcoming you to Yankton for both events!
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Three Generations of Newkirks Take the Field at Nationals
For the Newkirk family, archery isn’t just a pastime—it’s a passion that has spanned generations and continues to bring them together on the tournament field. At this year’s NFAA Field Nationals, three generations of Newkirks—Neil, Kevin, Tom, Oscar, and Hunter— stood side by side as competitors, marking a special moment in their family’s archery journey.
The Roots of a Passion
At 80 years old, Neil Newkirk is the family’s trailblazer in competitive archery. His journey began at just eight years old, fashioning a bow out of a sapling while pretending to be an Indian. With encouragement from his father and uncles, he picked up a recurve for bowhunting, honing his skills during Sunday practice sessions at his grandparents’ farm.
Those early days led Neil into competitive archery. He began in local leagues and eventually took on national-level events, including the Atlantic City Archery Classic and NFAA Outdoor Nationals. Over the years, Neil’s hard work paid off with silver bowl finishes in 2000, 2001, and 2003. While his equipment has evolved from BHFS Limited to Freestyle, his love for the sport has never wavered.
Passing the Torch
As Neil’s own journey in archery grew, he shared that passion with his sons. Kevin, now 52, first competed in the Atlantic City Archery Classic at age 11 before moving on to the NFAA Outdoor Nationals in Kansas City, South Dakota, and Watkins Glen, NY.
Tom, now 45, picked up a bow at age 10 in the instructional league at the archery shop Neil once owned. He quickly made his mark, earning silver bowls in the Youth and Young Adult divisions at Nationals in Darrington and Warshal.
The brothers have carried on their father’s legacy, not only competing but also fostering the sport for the next generation through instructional leagues at the archery store they now help run.
The Next Generation Steps Up
Today, the Newkirk legacy continues with Neil’s grandsons. Oscar, 11, son of Kevin, and Hunter, 10, son of Tom, have both grown up around the sport. They started in instructional leagues led by their fathers and recently took to the big stage, competing at the Outdoor Mid-Atlantics in June and their first-ever NFAA Outdoor Nationals this summer.
For Neil, seeing his grandsons step onto the field alongside their fathers is a dream come true. “Making memories with them in this amazing sport means the world to me,” he reflected. “I feel extremely blessed that our sons and grandsons share in my passion for competitive archery and that they will carry on the Newkirk name for years to come.”
More Than Competition
While the Newkirks have earned their share of medals and honors, Neil says the heart of his archery journey is the friendships and camaraderie built along the way. Now, sharing those experiences with his children and grandchildren has become the highlight of his career.
This year’s Field Nationals didn’t just mark another tournament for the Newkirks—it was a celebration of family, tradition, and a sport that continues to unite three generations on the shooting line.
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2025 nfaa pro divison scholarship recipients
The National Field Archery Association (NFAA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 NFAA Pro Division Scholarship: Gracen Fletcher of Boonville, Indiana, and Sebastien Huynh of Clearwater, Florida. Each recipient receives a $1,000 scholarship to support their pursuit of higher education while continuing their dedication to the sport of archery.
The NFAA Pro Division Scholarship is funded by the Professional Division membership dues and is presented annually to one male and one female archer between the ages of 15 and 18. Each recipient receives a $1,000 scholarship to support their continued education. The scholarship is designed for high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors who are actively involved in competitive archery at either the amateur or professional level.
The Pro Division Scholarship Committee reviewed applicants holistically, with consideration given to their involvement and achievement in competitive archery, academic performance, and the strength of their personal statements. Additional factors included the quality and relevance of letters of recommendation, as well as any demonstrated leadership, community involvement, or job experience. The goal of the Scholarship Committee is to recognize well-rounded young archers who show promise not only in the sport, but also as future leaders in their communities.
“As a former recipient of an NFAA scholarship, I know how impactful this support can be—not just financially, but as a sign that the archery community believes in your potential. Gracen and Sebastien exemplify everything this scholarship stands for: leadership, perseverance, and a passion for growing the sport. We’re proud to support their next steps.”
— Erika Jones, NFAA Executive Secretary
The NFAA extends its heartfelt congratulations to Gracen Fletcher and Sebastien Huynh, and looks forward to seeing the meaningful contributions they’ll make in both their studies and the sport of archery.
A dedicated archer for the past eight years, Gracen had a standout year in 2025, winning the Championship Women’s Division at The Vegas Shoot and making the Professional Female shoot-off at the NFAA Indoor National Championships. In addition to these major achievements, she has consistently medaled at various state, sectional, and national tournaments.
Gracen Fletcher Boonville, Indiana
Outside of archery, Gracen is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with local nonprofits and her church to support youth programs and family outreach efforts in her area. She believes that anyone can serve their community by using their unique talents and creative energy. From teaching at a therapeutic horse riding center to putting in long, challenging hours on her family’s horse farm, Gracen has found that giving to others often leads to unexpected blessings in return.
Her dream is to use archery as a platform to inspire and encourage shooters of all ages to reach their full potential, both as archers and as individuals. Gracen is currently pursuing an online degree in accounting through Cedarville University while continuing to compete professionally.
sebastien huynh Clearwater, florida
Sebastien has been a high-performance archer for more than a decade and is well-known in the archery community for both his competitive success and his commitment to mentoring others. A multitime national and sectional medalist, he has also placed at The Vegas Shoot. Beyond competition, Sebastien has dedicated over 100 hours to community service through the Suncoast Archery Club and has helped run numerous events in both Florida and Utah, earning his Level 2 NTS coaching certification in 2025.
What motivates Sebastien most is the opportunity to assist other athletes and build lasting friendships through archery. “I feel that we are all connected once we have a common ground,” he shared, reflecting his passion for giving back to the sport that shaped him.
This fall, Sebastien will begin attending Mount Marty University, where he will continue his training under Olympic silver medalist Coach Aida Roman at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center. He also hopes to pursue a degree in architecture, balancing his academic goals with his ongoing commitment to archery.
cupid’s arrow
By Rory E. Glennie
In mid-August of 1951 my Mom and Dad, Beulah and Arnold Glennie, drove their Studebaker from their hometown of Dunnville, Ontario, Canada, to Watkins Glen, New York, USA, to participate in a major target archery tournament. This was an annual National Championship event held over two days. That meant Mom and Dad would have to stay over a couple of nights, which they did in a small auto-court rental cabin near the tournament site. Apparently, that is when Cupid’s arrow struck home. Lost in time and importance were the results of the actual archery contest. Obviously, neither Dad nor Mom won their respective categories, or we would have heard about it and seen the champions’ photos. Regardless, those results are not the crux of the matter in this family tale. After returning home from their road trip, they told of how Mom came to be the recipient of a magnificent, hand-crafted, commemorative wooden arrow—the one which I have in safekeeping as a small link with our family archery history. Told to me many years later, the story went like this:
At the conclusion of every Watkins Glen tournament each competitor would launch an arrow high into the air over a long grass field. Each arrow was a special commemorative version bearing the owner’s contact information. The arrows would stick upright in the grass some great distance away from the firing line. After everyone had shot their arrow, the troop of archers would walk toward the assortment of shafts sticking out of the ground and take possession of the first one they came across.
So far, so good. The story continues… Mom had picked up her prize arrow and had it in hand when some random bloke came over to her and said, “You don’t want that one, here have this one,” then exchanged souvenir arrows with her. It is not certain whether this guy had nonchalantly picked up the arrow from the field or if it was one of his own making he had brought intentionally for a self-promoting swap-out. That information, too, is lost in history. So too is whatever happened to the souvenir arrow Dad came home with.
As the photo shows, Mom’s commemorative arrow is built on a smooth wooden shaft of cedar. The handcut self-nock is reinforced with a binding of catgut. A tri-fletch of dyed-red barred turkey quills have similar catgut bindings at the fore and aft tips. In the spaces between feathers is hand-lettered, in black India ink, the name and address of the arrow’s maker. Proudly occupying a portion of the mid-shaft lies an open lacework decoration engraved into the wood; the shallow groove of this engravement is colored with red ink. In the open spaces between the lacework is the name and date of the tournament, again in hand-lettered black India ink.
The arrow is tipped with an elongated side-notched style broadhead about 3⅛ inches long by 1 inch wide. It has been hand-wrought from a sheet of heavy-weight solid copper about one-eighth of an inch thick. This broadhead is mounted into a deep slot cut into the arrow shaft and is similarly bound with catgut windings. It appears all catgut and the copper broadhead have received a clear protective coating of some sort to combat aging and oxidation. That arrowhead is as shiny now as the day it was affixed to the shaft.
As for Cupid’s arrow, it obviously pierced the hearts of both Mom and Dad during their stay in Watkins Glen. The real story is what happened in May of 1952—exactly nine months to the day after that Watkins Glen archery tournament… that was the day I was born.
Editor’s Note: This very arrow is now proudly on display in the NFAA Foundation Museum at NFAA Headquarters in Yankton, South Dakota.
Arnold and Beulah Glennie (nee Ecker) on their wedding day in 1943.
The Watkins Glen commemorative arrow laying across the headstone of Arnold and Beulah Glennie. Together forever.
National Outdoor Leagues: Target & Field
This year’s National Field League (May 12 – July 20) and National Target League (July 14 – September 21) once again brought national-level competition to archers across the country. Thanks to the flexible format, scores could be submitted from any archery range or NFAA tournament, which meant participation came from all over the country. This structure allowed newcomers and veterans alike to take part without the burden of long travel or the need for a designated host site. Winners took home the beautifully crafted National League belt buckle, second and third place finishers were awarded signature National League medals, and every participant was also entered into a drawing for free entry into a 2025–26 NFAA sectional or national event.
The scoring format challenged archers to be both consistent and strategic. In the Field League, participants submitted their best nine scores over ten weeks, shooting an equal mix of Field, Hunter, and Animal Rounds. Target League participants submitted their best four 900 Round scores and four Classic 600 Round scores over ten weeks. Because archers could shoot more rounds than the minimum required, they had the chance to replace weaker scores with stronger ones, adding an extra layer of strategy to the competition. The system rewarded steady performance while still offering room to recover from an off day.
Awards and recognition were structured to highlight achievement across all levels of competition. All registered archers were automatically included in the drawing for future event entries, while collegiate archers were also eligible for both league honors and additional collegiate prizes. Competitors could register in up to three different shooting styles within their age class, making the leagues accessible to a wide range of disciplines. With a flighting and division structure in place, archers of all ages and equipment styles had the opportunity to earn recognition, ensuring the leagues were about more than just the top few performers.
Together, the National Field and Target Leagues encourage archers to stay engaged throughout the year, testing themselves in different formats and continually improving their skills. The ability to compete from any range expands geographic diversity and makes these leagues inclusive for archers everywhere. The incentive drawing adds an exciting element for archers, motivating participation at every level. And for collegiate archers, the leagues provide another competitive outlet that complements their collegiate season.
The 2025 National Outdoor Leagues showcased the strength and adaptability of archery across the country. From grassroots participation to national recognition, they proved once again that the sport thrives when accessibility and opportunity go hand in hand.
National Target League
NFAA Indoor sectional Championships & indoor national series 2026
2026 Tournament Format
The 2026 Indoor Sectional format for all sections will consist of the best one of two NFAA 300 blue/white rounds. Each archer may choose to shoot either one or two rounds. Only the highest score will count toward their final sectional and national ranking. If an archer chooses to compete at more than one location within his/her section, the best score from their first location will count.
Inside-out scoring of the X-ring will be used at all locations for tie-breakers. Electronic Scoring will be used at all sectional locations for live updates.
Indoor National Series
Put your skills to the test and see how you measure up against archers from across the nation! The NFAA Sectional Championships are more than just a local competition—they’re your gateway to national recognition. Scores from every sectional event are combined to create national rankings, determining the National Series Champions in each division. These top performing archers are awarded with prestigious National Series medals personalized to commemorate their achievement..
OVERVI E W
The Grow the Line program pairs experienced Vegas Shoot archers with first-time participants to build community, share knowledge, and create a welcoming experience for the world’s largest and most premier archery tournament. Mentors start by completing an application to confirm eligibility for themselves and their Rookie.
BENEF I T S
Registration Discounts
Rookie: $75 Off Registration
Mentor: $75 Off Registration + $20 OFF for each subsequent rookie (max value: $155)
Exclusive Celebration Event
Limited-Edition Swag Items
Peer-to-Peer Connection & Support
EL I GI BI L I TY
Rookie Criteria
Must not have attended The Vegas Shoot in 2020 or 2022-2025.
Mentor Criteria
Must have attended The Vegas Shoot in 2025, or at least twice within the past 10 years, not including the 2021 Virtual Vegas Shoot
Must complete the Grow the Line Application Form prior to event registration
Must actively guide and support their rookie before, during, and after the event by offering advice, answering questions, and helping them navigate the full Vegas Shoot experience.
Get ready for an archery experience like never before! The 2026 Rushmore Rumble takes place January 9–11 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN, and this year it’s bigger and better than ever. For the first time, the Rushmore Rumble joins forces with the Archery & Bowhunting Supershow and the ATA Trade Show, creating a single, action-packed weekend for archers of all levels. Whether you’re competing in national-level tournaments, checking out the latest gear from top vendors, or connecting with fellow archery enthusiasts, this event has something for everyone.
Highlights
• National Competition: Championship, Flight, and Junior divisions with awards, scholarships, and prize money.
• Championship Shoot-Offs: Watch top archers compete for the ultimate titles.
• Supershow Access: Archers with Rumble registration get free entry to the Supershow.
• Spectator Tickets: Purchase through a secure form sent after archer registration. Early-bird pricing only!
Deadlines:
• Early Registration Deadline: December 29, 2025 — save on fees!
• Late Registration Fee: +$50 after deadline; on-site registration accepted (limited).
schedule:
• Friday, Jan 9: Check-in & practice | Supershow Day 1
• Saturday, Jan 10: Day 1 Competition | Supershow Day 2
• Sunday, Jan 11: Day 2 Competition & Awards | Championship Shoot-Offs
This historic first-time combination of the Rushmore Rumble and the Archery & Bowhunting Supershow offers a truly one-of-a-kind archery experience. Competitors and spectators alike can take advantage of early registration savings while enjoying two full days of top-level competition, live shoot-offs, and access to the latest industry gear. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow archers, meet vendors, and explore all aspects of the archery world in one action-packed weekend.
January 9-11, 2026
March 6-8, 2026
March 26-29, 2026
Moving to Indianapolis for the first time, the Rushmore Rumble will follow the ATA Trade Show and run alongside the Archery & Bowhunter Supershow. As an open event, the Rushmore Rumble requires no membership and features two days of indoor competition. Championship, Flight, and Junior divisions are offered with cash prizes and scholarships available across all divisions.
NFA A Indoor National championships
The NFAA Indoor Nationals will be held in Memphis, bringing together the top NFAA archers from across the U.S. to compete on the iconic 40cm blue and white target face. The event also features a Pro-Am shoot, a Meet the Pros session, and a large Trade Show highlighting the industry's leading vendors.
Known as the largest and most prestigious indoor archery tournament in the world, the Vegas Shoot attracts over 4,000 archers of all ages and skill levels. The event features the iconic 3-spot Vegas Round that made it famous and the worldrenowned archery Trade Show. It's the ultimate archery experience!
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Shoot your score at an NFAA sanctioned event or NFAA League.
Purchase your keychain from the NFAA Store and customize it with scores and divisions!
Submit your scorecard for validation via the linked online form.
Receive your keychain in the mail and show it off with PRIDE!
behind the Bow
How I found my bow in the mountains of georgia
by nataliya shinkarev
My husband and I set out to hike another stretch of the Appalachian Trail, and as always, I was excited and a little nervous – bags packed, boots broken in. But shortly after arriving in Hiawassee, Georgia, to continue our journey, plans to hit the trail right away were changed when we learned of an approaching storm. At first, we figured we’d spend the day at the hotel and go out to eat; however, the skies held steady with nothing more than a gray overcast, leaving us with an unexpected free day on our hands.
Not ones to sit around on our vacation, we headed out to explore and eventually to wander into
Eagle Mountain Archery, a shop dedicated entirely to bows. The owner, working solo and tied up with other customers, had us waiting for what felt like an eternity, and with one foot out the door after nearly an hour, we were glad to be patient. The patience paid off when the owner invited us to try out a variety of bows at a small indoor range tucked in the back of his store. I tried a crossbow which was equipped with a scope and had arrows with glowing nocks, but it felt too much like a rifle, and I set it down. That’s when I found my black Diamond Prism Youth Compound Bow. Made in the United States, I’d never imagined owning one, though I’d shot some bows back in Ukraine, this particular bow made me appreciate the silence and serene. While we don’t mind a little noise, the drawing of reusable ammunition and the pull of the string, had me fall in love with this armament all over again.
I was edgy as my hands shook finding the target, the feeling of being more involved with it was like a hobby and therapy rolled in one. I don’t ever use the bow for hunting, only for entertainment. For when they say the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan, on the day of our intended continuation of the hike we found the latest addition to the collection to be a unique one. The beauty was certainly a fresh new find to obsess over, and my husband and I do wish there were more ranges about, paid or not, we’d be there.
National Roundup: First Dakota Classic & Outdoor target Nationals
The 2025 National Roundup brought together many of the best archers in the country for back-to-back national events at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center. Athletes from 37 states and 4 different countries gathered to compete in the First Dakota Classic and the NFAA Outdoor National Target Championships, showcasing incredible skill and grit across multiple formats.
The weekend opened with the First Dakota Classic, where after qualification rounds on Friday, archers faced off in tense elimination matches. James Lutz prevailed in the Championship Compound Open, while Sharon Wallace claimed the title in Championship Compound Female. With championship, flight, junior, and collegiate divisions in play, the Classic offered opportunities for all levels, combining intense match play with strong payouts.
Action then shifted outdoors for the National Target Championships, featuring a Classic 600 Round on Saturday and a 900 Round on Sunday. In the Professional Male Freestyle division, Lutz secured a dramatic shoot-off win over Robert Householder, while Leann Drake rose to the top in Professional Female Freestyle with consistent shooting across both days.
Another highlight was the 3-Star Shoot Off, where archers who completed all legs of the 3-Star Tour went head-to-head for bonus prize money. Chloe Nelsen captured the Amateur win, and Levi Reitsma earned the $5,000 Professional grand prize. The NFAA also hosted a free spaghetti feed, giving athletes and families a chance to gather and celebrate the weekend.
As the capstone of the NFAA season, the Roundup also featured presentation of the Shooter of the Year awards — expanded this year to include Junior divisions. Winners were: Professional Male – Bodie Turner, Professional Female – Paige Pearce, Professional Senior – Timothy Gillingham, Amateur Male – Christopher Robinson, Amateur Female – Catherine Belzner, Junior Male – Christopher Fong, and Junior Female – Ashley Fieldstad.
Together, the First Dakota Classic and Outdoor Target Nationals created an unforgettable National Roundup, combining high-pressure indoor match play with outdoor endurance. With nearly 40 states and international representation, the event once again proved to be a highlight of the archery season.
The 2025 3-Star Shoot-Off once again delivered one of the most thrilling finishes of the season, bringing together archers who had battled through the full 3-Star Tour: The Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor Nationals, and the First Dakota Classic. By competing in all three events, these elite athletes earned their spot in the Friday evening showdown, where nerves of steel and perfect execution determined who would walk away with the titles — and thousands of dollars in prize money.
The format of the Shoot-Off is what makes it so exciting for both competitors and spectators. All archers start at just 10 yards, shooting a single arrow at a 40 cm single-spot target. After each round, the distance increases by five yards. Archers must match the highest score to advance; anyone who doesn’t is eliminated. The distances continue all the way back to 60 yards, creating an atmosphere of growing intensity with every arrow. With no allowance for equipment failure, every shot counts.
The Amateur Shoot-Off came to a dramatic close at the 40-yard mark. Under the pressure of the watchful crowd, Chloe Nelsen stayed composed and delivered the winning arrow to secure her place as the Amateur Champion. Her victory not only earned her the title but also a $2,500 cash prize, marking a memorable highlight in her 2025 season.
In the Professional Shoot-Off, the competition pushed even deeper, stretching all the way to 55 yards before a champion was decided. Levi Reitsma rose to the challenge, keeping his focus razor-sharp through the long-distance rounds. His final arrow at 55 yards sealed the victory, electrifying the crowd and earning him the Professional crown along with the $5,000 prize.
The 2025 edition of the 3-Star Shoot-Off proved once again why this event is a fan favorite. With a nail-biting progression from 10 yards all the way past 50, and champions crowned under immense pressure, the Shoot-Off captured the perfect blend of endurance, precision, and mental toughness. Congratulations to Amateur Champion Chloe Nelsen and Professional Champion Levi Reitsma — the 2025 3-Star Shoot-Off winners!
2025 Shooter of the year: Rules recap and final rankings
Professional junior adult
Pro Male, Pro female, Pro senior Junior Male, Junior Female
qualifying events
Adult male, Adult female
vegas shoot
reminder: you must compete in all 5 events to be eligible
Points are calculated by adding final scores from all 5 events plus the final X count for The Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor Nationals, and the First Dakota Classic. Each X counts as an additional point.
2026 Shooter of the year Prorgram updates
The Shooter of the Year (SOY) Program has been updated to provide a broader array of NFAA tournaments, offering a more complete representation of the nation’s best all-around archer for the year. Point multipliers are applied to tournament rankings to reflect each event’s broadly perceived prestige and/or its longstanding tradition within the NFAA calendar. The SOY categories have been greatly expanded to include all NFAA shooting styles, ensuring that every archer has the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements.
SOY Series Events & Point Multipliers
base point allocation
SOY Categories
Provided there are eligible archers, a Shooter of the Year winner will be named in each SOY Category within every NFAA shooting style. Scores from each SOY event will be combined within each shooting style and SOY category. Placement points will then be awarded based on the cumulative rankings. Placement points will then be awarded based on the cumulative rankings. View the full SOY Program & Rules page for an outline of SOY categories and inclusive shooting styles.
eligibility:
- Archers must compete in at least 4 SOY events within the same SOY category and NFAA shooting style to qualify.
- An archer’s top 6 placement points, including event multipliers, within the same SOY category and NFAA Shooting Style will count toward the final SOY standings.
- If an NFAA shooting style is not offered at an NFAA Foundation event (e.g., FSL, Longbow, Traditional), archers holding SOY ranking in that shooting style will receive 2 base points (multiplied by the event’s factor) for participating in the event in another shooting style.
- If an archer competes in one or more SOY events as a Young Adult prior to their 18th birthday, they will remain in the Junior SOY category for the entirety of that SOY season.
Pro senior: Timothy Gillingham
Do you have any pretournament routines or rituals that help you feel ready to compete?
My main ritual is to make sure I’m cutting no corners on my equipment. Preparation gives me confidence.
How has your approach to archery changed over the years?
I practice smarter and not as hard although it probably seems like it to others when I’m grinding at a tourney trying to get my stuff perfect. I have processes now where I was learning them before.
Looking ahead, what milestones or achievements are you striving for in your professional career?
My main goal is to leave to archery all that I’ve learned. I really want to get going on my YouTube Channel this fall. ICAN Archery will be designed to empower people and give them the video resources they need to get better at archery.
I would like to win Indoor Nationals and Vegas but I want to do it shooting good archery which those events are so stressful it’s hard for me to feel that way.
Are there any defining moment(s) that significantly shaped your path as an archer?
It took me 20 yrs to win my first Pro event. That was the catalyst. That and my career with Gold Tip arrows that allowed my passion to also be my job. What trends or changes in the sport excite you most right now?
I think all the college programs that are expanding is exciting for archery.
If you weren’t an archer, what sport or career would you want to pursue?
If I wasn’t an archer, I guess gold but at heart my mother said I always loved weapons. Probably shooting rifle and air rifle competitions. As my good friend Kevin Wilkey says “ Shooters Shoot”!
Pro Male: Bodie Turner
Do you have any pre-tournament routines or rituals that help you feel ready to compete?
Not really any routines I do besides just making sure I’m comfortable with the equipment I’m going to use.
How has your approach to archery changed over the years?
I’ve learned over the couple years I’ve shot professionally how to work on my equipment a lot more effectively.
Looking ahead, what milestones or achievements are you striving for in your professional career?
I really want to shoot a 90x in Vegas.
Are there any defining moment(s) that significantly shaped your path as an archer?
The 2022 indoor season was definitely my defining moment in the beginning of my career.
What trends or changes in the sport excite you most right now?
I’m excited to see what they do with the Olympics.
If you weren’t an archer, what sport or career would you want to pursue?
Something in the hunting industry would interest me or coaching.
Pro Female: Paige Pearce
Do you have any pre-tournament routines or rituals that help you feel ready to compete?
I really don’t have anything cool or specific that I do before a tournament. My biggest thing is just to try and get enough sleep. That’s not always easy to do with our travel schedules, but that’s something I absolutely prioritize now that I’ve gotten a little older.
How has your approach to archery changed over the years?
Archery was just something that I did for fun when I was growing up, and I feel like that completely changed once this became my job. There are so few archers in the world that this is their only/main source of income, and I happen to be one of them. I would say the tournaments carry a very different level of significance when winning and losing is the difference between paying your bills or not being able to pay your bills. Since that applies to so few people in the archery world, I know most people really don’t understand that, but I definitely take them much more seriously than if I was just shooting for fun! Over the years, I’ve learned to give myself grace in the fact that we can’t be perfect all the time. I go into every event giving it the best I have in the moment, and that’s really all you can do.
Looking ahead, what milestones or achievements are you striving for in your professional career?
For the longest time my goal was to try and get to the top, but I will say it’s much harder to try and stay at the top than it was to get there. I’m pretty much already living out my dream, so my biggest goal moving forward is do whatever it takes to stay at the top of the competition field. I want to remain competitive across all different types of archery competitions.
Are there any defining moment(s) that significantly shaped your path as an archer?
I think the biggest thing that shaped my path as an archer was breaking my first state record when I was 10 years old. We didn’t even realize there were records in archery, so that was the moment that we started looking into other types of events, and that really is what started everything for me. I’d already been shooting my entire life, but that’s when we found the other archery organizations, and we started traveling all over the country to different events as a family. My goal was always to break records at those events, not just win, and I think that mindset really helped push me forward. It’s kind of crazy to think back that something so simple could really be the reason I am where I am today.
What trends or changes in the sport excite you most right now?
I think it’s really exciting to see all the new people coming up. There are a lot of young people with so much talent that I’m literally watching the game change right before my eyes. I think the future of the sport is very bright!
If you weren’t an archer, what sport or career would you want to pursue?
Before Archery took off, my plan was actually to be a lawyer. I made it all the way to Law School and completed some schooling before quitting to pursue archery full-time. I do think I would’ve liked that career path, but I don’t regret choosing archery at all. I would also like to add that being a Professional archer is not a lifelong career, so I will still have to choose something once I’m no longer competitive in the sport. Archery has been such a huge part of my entire life that I would like to continue working in the sport in some way when I’m not full-time on the pro circuit. Tate is a sales rep right now, and I could see myself doing a job like that after pulling back from the Pro circuit. I also love teaching our Archery, so I would like to incorporate some more of that in my future!
amateur male: Christopher Robinson
What is your favorite NFAA tournament on the Shooter of the Year circuit and why?
Each type of tournament has its own set of features that make it uniquely challenging. Field archery is my personal favorite game. It varies from venue to venue based on the elevations and stances. It requires mind, body and equipment to all be in sync. That being said, nothing challenges the mind like indoor archery. There is no substitute for the mental anxiety that takes hold of you during crucial moments of an indoor tournament, and I have found no way to replicate that during practice.
What has been your biggest challenge as an archer, and how did you work through it?
The mental game on the easiest shot in archery… indoor. Indoor season requires a bit more practice from me to allow muscle memory to alleviate my body’s extra dose of adrenaline during a shoot. I exercise and work on keeping my heart rate low. I read books on the mental game and try to get information from guys who do well under pressure. Failure and success are extremely close to one another, so persistence is the key for me.
What archery goals are you setting for 2026 and beyond?
At age 60, goals are beginning to change a bit. I work very hard to try to maintain longevity in mind, body and soul. This is a sport that I plan on doing for as long as I can, and I am still naïve enough to think that I can improve.
What do you consider the key factors behind your success in archery?
While I will admit, I love shooting a bow, success is more than love. It is resilience, discipline and persistence. Some guys are just genetically gifted with good mental or physical games, so for the rest of us it’s going to be a lot of hard work. And for an amateur shooter, finding the time to practice can be a real challenge. You have to take your hat off to the Pros who have developed incredibly rigorous practice schedules. There’s a reason they are the best.
What milestone or success in your archery journey means the most to you?
It’s been a long journey with some incredible feelings of victory along with some scar tissue from failure. Fortunately, I tend to recall the joyous memories more often. I guess winning the senior outdoor nationals last year when I was 59 years and 9 months old felt very gratifying, but the first time I ever won a state championship is still etched in my memory.
Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
I was in the top 10 worldwide in indoor rowing last time I looked at the rankings. Now that tournament archery season is over, I will try to move up the rankings this fall. I used to be a decent woodcarver, but this also takes a ton of practice. Retirement activity, if I ever retire.
amateur female: Catherine Belzner
What is your favorite NFAA tournament on the Shooter of the Year circuit and why?
Redding is my favorite, followed closely by Field Nationals. Redding is such a fun and challenging tournament and the Straight Arrow Bowhunters are amazing. I look forward to this tournament every year.
What has been your biggest challenge as an archer, and how did you work through it?
I have been struggling for a while with target anxiety and keeping my form consistent. This past year I have worked very hard on my mental game and my shot process and I am happy to finally see positive results.
What archery goals are you setting for 2026 and beyond?
To continue to challenge myself by improving my mental game and shot process. I have always struggled shooting indoor tournaments and one of my goals is to improve my indoor game. What do you consider the key factors behind your success in archery?
I think it’s the constant challenge to shoot my bow the best I can and enjoy the experience. I have met, been mentored and inspired by countless amazing people in the archery community. The best thing about archery is it is a sport that can take you as far as you want to go.
What milestone or success in your archery journey means the most to you?
There are many, but I think my most memorable was my first Field Nationals in Darrington. It was my first national tournament and I was in a tough division. I earned second place by one point on the very last arrow in competition. This was when we still shot the five-day format for Nationals which I dearly miss. To be able to dig down and earn that last point on the last arrow after five days of competition is one of my favorite memories.
Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
I was a Rodeo Princess for the Scottsdale Jaycees Parada Del Sol Rodeo in Arizona. I also was a member of one of the best mounted horse drill teams in the country when I was in high school. We performed in parades and special events.
Junior Male: Christopher Fong
How did you first get interested in archery, and what keeps you coming back?
I first got interested in archery after I won my first bow from an Elk calling Competition and got it set up at my local shop, Archery Central. The thing that makes me come back to archery is hitting the middle, there’s no better feeling! Which tournament is your favorite on the NFAA Shooter of the Year circuit and why?
My favorite tournament has to be the NFAA Marked 3D National Championship (Redding). There are many 3D shoots throughout the country, but the NFAA Marked 3D National Championship has all the elements of a great outdoor shoot. One year you’ll have 100-degree temps and the next 50 degrees, gusty winds to 30 mph and crazy rain squalls. The shots are the most challenging, I don’t think there’s flat shot anywhere on that course. From 30 degrees up or down angles, shooting at two 12’ brown bears across a 75-yard canyon (with 10 to 20 mph crosswind), 5-yard shots at dime size dots or 88-yard shots to the Elk herd (through blinding sun or dense fog), and who can forget the 101-yard shot at Big Foot, what’s not to like!
What archery goals are you setting for 2026 and beyond?
My goals are high, but I’m looking forward to shooting a 900 at the Vegas Shoot and a 1530 at the NFAA Marked 3D National Championship in Redding. The only Silver Bowl I haven’t won is Indoor Nationals. As a high school junior, I am looking at colleges now that offer an archery program. The thought of going to the Pro ranks has always caught my attention. The Olympics are a way off for now, but Brisbane 2032 in Australia is a possibility.
Who has been the biggest influence or inspiration in your archery journey?
My biggest influence has to be my dad. He’s the one who goes everywhere with me and supports me through the good and the tough times. There are definitely professional shooters and archery industry folks who have influenced me throughout my archery career, but nobody is as big as my dad.
What’s something new you’ve learned about yourself through archery?
A wise man once told me, to be a great archer you need to be humble and know how to lose graciously before you can begin to win. What I’ve learned about myself through archery is that I don’t need to take everything so seriously. You can find joy in little things, and you don’t have to be so “cold blooded” all the time. Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
A fun fact that most people don’t know about me is that I was fortunate enough to participate in the 4H National Shooting Sports Competition in Grand Island, NE in June of this year. My three teammates and I put together a team over the last three years to form a killer team in Idaho. The 4H Shooting Sports program has only been around for 12 years or so, and has never taken a ribbon, medal or podium in any of the shooting sports.
As an individual in 4H Shooting Sports, you can only go the National Competition once in a discipline. I’ve been shooting with 4H since I was 9 years old and last year I taught the Archery program as my senior project. So, this event was going to be quite special to me, as this was my one and only chance to win the National title. After four hot, humid, and rainy days, the team from Idaho walked away with numerous medals, marking a first for the State of Idaho and the Idaho 4H Shooting Sports Program: 1st and 2nd place in FITA, 1st place in FITA Team, 1st place in 3D, 2nd place in 3D Team, 3rd place in Field, 5th place in Field Team, 3rd place Overall Team, and 1st place for Christopher Fong (combined FITA-3D-Field), making him the 2025 National Champion.
Junior female: Haley Fieldstad
How did you first get interested in archery, and what keeps you coming back?
In 2023 my Dad got back into archery after a fifteen year break. When he went to get a new bow I went with him and tried out a couple of bows as well. When I drew that bow back for the first time it sparked something even stronger than a passion in me. So that day, myself and my Dad came home with new bows. Since then I have found joy in the comraderie of the sport. In traveling for competitions I get to not only meet new people from my state but from all over the world. I have found that I am now consumed by the thrill of competing in tournaments. Which tournament is your favorite on the NFAA Shooter of the Year circuit and why?
This is a hard one because I really enjoyed all five events. If I had to pick one though I think I enjoyed the NFAA Marked 3D National Championships the most. This event had the best atmosphere. It was serious, yet laid back and fun. I got to talk with so many people and meet new friends. It is a unique style of competition. Shooting the orange dots presents its own list of challenges. It keeps my brain working. I also like being outdoors and hiking and shooting through the rough terrain.
What archery goals are you setting for 2026 and beyond?
My goal for 2026 is to make it to as many national competitions as possible, and get into the top 3 archers in at least one of them. Beyond 2026 I would like to take archery to the collegiate level, and the professional level. Along with that I want to work on myself as an archer. I want to shoot my game and excel in this sport. If that lands me where I want to be great, if not then it just means I still have more things to work on before I can reach my goals.
Who has been the biggest influence or inspiration in your archery journey?
My Dad has been a huge influence on my archery journey. He has been with me through the highs and the lows. He has guided me and helped me reach my goals. He has taught me how to give myself feedback on my shooting, which has given me the ability to make adjustments as necessary. He has also been a role model for me when it comes to most everything in archery. I am forever grateful to him.
What’s something new you’ve learned about yourself through archery?
Through archery I have learned how to be more confident in myself. Self confidence is something that I have struggled with in the past. Archery has shown me how to be confident and know that I can reach my goals. It has taught me how to manage every little aspect of my mental game. It has also forced me to have a higher level of focus. But most of all, it has taught me to walk into a room, be it within archery or in my everyday life and be confident and give all my effort.
Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I’m homeschooled and that in my spare time I enjoy doing arts and crafts. I particularly like to paint and crochet. I’ve gone through a lot of stages of trying different craft projects but painting and crocheting seems to be the two that I do the most at this point. As well, in the winter when I’m not occupied with archery, I like to go skiing at my local ski resorts.
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B E C O M E A N B E C O M E A
N N F A A N F A A
J U D G E J U D G E T O D A Y T O D A Y
N F A A m e m b e r s c a n c o m p l e t e o n l i n e c o u r s e s t o b e c o m e
C e r t i f i e d & N a t i o n a l J u d g e s . C o u r s e s e d u c a t e m e m b e r s o n
r u l e s a n d p r o c e d u r e s i n v o l v e d w i t h j u d g i n g a n d t e a c h t h e
f u n d a m e n t a l s o f N F A A r o u n d f o r m a t s a n d r a n g e s e t u p s .
N F A A C e r t i f i e d J u d g e
O f f i c i a t e a t N F A A l o c a l , s t a t e , a n d s e c t i o n a l e v e n t s .
N F A A N a t i o n a l J u d g e
O f f i c i a t e a t N F A A a n d N F A A F o u n d a t i o n
n a t i o n a l e v e n t s .
C L I C K T O L E A R N MO R E !
2025 BOD Meeting Minutes
The NFAA Board of Directors convened for its 2025 bi-annual meeting to review ongoing initiatives, adopt key policy and rule changes, and approve new programs aimed at advancing participation and development across all levels of archery. The meeting reflected a strong focus on growth, modernization, and collaboration within the sport.
NFAA Program & Event Updates
An important announcement of the meeting was the approval of the Next Shot Initiative, a three-year grant program funded by the Easton Foundations, with the potential for extension based on demonstrated progress. The initiative will support marketing, range development, equipment, staffing, and outreach efforts to expand grassroots archery participation and strengthen the pathway to long-term NFAA membership and competition.
The NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center will once again take center stage in 2026 as it hosts several major national and international events. These include the USA Archery Field/3D Nationals and World Field/3D Team Trials in June, the NFAA Field Nationals alongside the IFAA World Field Championships in July, and the World Archery World Field and World 3D Championships in September–October. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved in these historic back-to-back events, which will draw elite competitors from around the world. All 2026 tournament dates are available on the NFAA Calendar.
Membership has seen substantial growth, with the NFAA now nearing 15,000 members. The return of the Archery Association of Europe (AAE) and the addition of new programs have supported this momentum.
Updates were also provided on several initiatives designed to enhance member experience and competition opportunities including the Grow the Line program for the 2026 Vegas Shoot,
updated Shooter of the Year program, the addition of the National Series at sectional events, Sectional Travel Scholarships for Junior archers, new collegiate divisions at national and sectional events, and more.
Competition & Rule Updates
The Board of Directors approved several important competition rule changes and updates. Some of these include:
• Creation of a new Modern Bowhunter Freestyle division in all age categories, allowing movable sights and stabilizers up to 18 inches.
• Addition of the Pro Chairman seat to the NFAA Council.
• Renaming of the Barebow style to Barebow Compound to reduce confusion during tournament registration.
• Removal of the requirement for Juniors to remain in an older age division once they have moved up.
• New Professional Division qualification requirements based on previous national placement rather than qualifying score.
• Removal of the Crossbow shooting style as mandatory at national events and elimination of the Master Senior Professional Division, both due to low participation.
• Updated tie-breaker procedures for amateur divisions at the NFAA Marked 3D National Championships.
• Establishment of a Competition Committee to guide the creation and modification of NFAA rounds, particularly Field rounds, in response to member needs and evolving equipment.
• Clarified Longbow equipment rules that now include defined parameters for bows and accessories.
• Assignment of target size requirements by age and shooting style for the NFAA Classic 600 Round, ensuring consistency across events.
shooting the angle shots by terry wunderle
Years ago, my son Vic and I were shooting a national level 3-D tournament. Waiting in line for our turn at the next stake, we were unable to see the upcoming target. As we observed the rhythm of the archers releasing their arrows, we heard the quiet “thunk” as they met their mark. Turning to me, Vic asked, “How far do you think it is?” The lapse between the discharge of the bow and the arrow making its impact was considerable. Calculating in our minds, we both arrived at the same answer…over sixty yards. When we came to the stake, it was my turn to go first. Deciding on sixty-three yards, I set my sight for five yards less, due to the angle and distance of the shot. The arrow nailed the ten-ring.
Excelling at angle shots can be very difficult if you do not figure the correct yardage and shoot the same form you used to sight your bow. When attempting sharp uphill and downhill targets, you have to subtract yardage from the actual distance calculated. The amount deducted depends on the distance of the target and the angle of the shot. Several approaches can be used to determine correct sight
placement. Range finders provide a digital reading for angle shots and can be very beneficial when hunting deer from an elevated position. While sitting in a tree stand, get a measurement for the trails or areas in which you anticipate a shot. Once a deer approaches, you can automatically select your sight.
For 3-D tournaments as well as deer hunting, I use a quick estimation method to determine pin settings. With downhill shots, I choose a tree near the target and then figure the yardage to the tree at eye level. The result will be very close to the calculation that should be used for the target. Uphill shots, contrary to what you may think, should be sighted for less distance than they measure. Again, the amount of subtraction depends on the distance and the angle of the shot.
While attempting angle shots, a few form rules must be followed to ensure accuracy. First, make sure you keep your back straight, rather than slouching over. If you use a back-tension device and shoot from the bent-over position, it’s difficult to get the release to go off. Poor posture will also cause you to pull the bow and the shot to the outside. The most common error in form with angle shots occurs when the bow arm is raised or lowered to get the pin on the mark. When this happens, it will feel as if your draw length is too long and can make it more difficult to maintain proper pressure. In addition, the change in the angle of the bow arm is different from the one used to sight the bow on level ground. This can cause an archer to change the normal anchor point of the release hand and alter the peep sight alignment.
When shooting on level ground, both arms and shoulders are in a straight line and perpendicular to the target. Imagine that your arms and back form a T-square. This is the same position required for angle
shots. To maintain the “T” posture, bend at the waist. Many archers bend slightly, then raise or lower the arm to get the pin on the target. Problems often result. To achieve the desired form, try drawing the bow in a level position and then bend at the waist to get the pin on the mark.
In all of my years of hunting, I haven’t had a deer climb a tree to give me a level shot. If you plan to hunt from a tree stand, invest time practicing from an elevated area, rather than simply shooting on flat ground. Plan your practice and work on the type of shots you expect to encounter in the woods. This advice is equally important for 3-D archers.
The aiming point for the bulls-eye on a deer changes in an elevated situation. I like to think of the kill zone as a volleyball that is positioned inside the chest cavity of a deer where the heart and lungs are located. No matter what angle the shot may be, make sure the arrow passes through this imaginary volleyball. With the higher elevated stands, a double-lung shot becomes very difficult to achieve. My son says that from my 30-foot plus stands, I will be shooting deer in the back at nearly every distance. He is right, but I am still aiming at the internal volleyball. An arrow placed in or a few inches above the heart will cause massive hemorrhaging and provide a quick recovery. When practicing from a raised position, shoot at a 3-D animal target. This will help you determine where the correct aiming point is located.
Performing the angle shots can be much easier when you establish the correct shooting yardage, maintain the T-square formation, and aim at the imaginary volleyball. Honing these skills will provide you with added confidence and expertise when facing tournament play or stalking the woods for that special deer.
