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2025 Year in Review

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To Our Archery Family,

Thank you for your support throughout 2025. It has been a wonderful year filled with growth, new faces, and time spent with our NFAA community. We enjoyed seeing familiar archers, welcoming beginners, and celebrating our sport together at every level.

The Vegas Shoot remained a highlight of the year, and we learned valuable lessons that will help improve the flow of the event in 2026. We are also thrilled to bring Indoor Nationals to Memphis next year. The venue is easy to navigate, offers a strong competition layout, and is shaping up to be an excellent experience for the archer. We hope you will join us.

Looking ahead, 2026 will be a year unlike any other. Several major world events will be hosted at our Headquarters in Yankton, creating a summer and fall full of international competition. We are honored to welcome the global archery community and to showcase why Yankton is a home for the sport.

In 2025 we made progress on several initiatives tied to one mission. We want to grow archery as a whole and bridge the gap between introductory experiences and long-term involvement in our sport.

The Next Shot Initiative advanced that mission significantly. Supported by a multi-year Easton Foundations grant, the program focuses on helping new archers find their footing after their first exposure to archery. Through mentorship, partnerships with outdoor and archery organizations, and new opportunities for clubs, shops, coaches, and state associations to connect with beginners, Next Shot creates a genuine pathway from curiosity to lifelong participation. Dedicated outreach staff will continue expanding this work in 2026.

Grow the Line is an extension of this effort. At the 2026 Vegas Shoot, archers may sign up as Mentors or Rookies and receive a registration discount for participating in the program. Mentors will help new competitors navigate their first major event, understand rules, and feel welcomed on the line. We plan to bring Grow the Line to additional NFAA events to strengthen relationships, build confidence, and increase retention.

Collegiate archery remained a major focus this year. We introduced discounted collegiate memberships and collegiate divisions at national and sectional events to help student athletes stay connected to the sport throughout their college years and remain active members of the NFAA community.

We also expanded scholarship opportunities. In 2025 more than $80,000 in scholarships were awarded to junior and collegiate archers, including the new Sectional Travel Scholarship that helps young athletes move from sectional participation to their first national-level experience. Since launching its scholarship program in 2000, the NFAA Foundation has awarded more than $1,000,000 to over 1,000 student-athletes. We are committed to growing scholarship offerings in the years ahead.

The Shooter of the Year program continued to evolve in 2025. All NFAA and NFAA Foundation events are now included, including sectionals, and awards will be expanded for 2026 to recognize more shooting styles and age divisions. The National Series is now part of Sectionals, combining Indoor and Outdoor sectional scores to crown National Series Champions in each division. This structure encourages participation, promotes consistency, and gives archers more meaningful ways to track progress across formats.

We continued strengthening the Judge Certification Program with the goal of creating consistent standards and training for judges at every level. Confidence in rules and procedures directly improves the archer experience. We also introduced the NEAT designation, the Nationally Endorsed Archery Tournament program. NEAT provides calendar visibility and promotional support for approved events, helping clubs, shops, and state associations offer high-quality tournaments discoverable by the archery community.

Finally, we continue to invest in technology. Membership, scoring, and registration systems are central to the experience of our athletes, volunteers, and event staff. Improvements in reliability, ease of use, and accuracy will remain a priority in 2026.

Thank you to every member, volunteer, coach, sponsor, and partner who helped make this year possible. Your passion and dedication guide every decision we make. Whether you joined us at a local shoot, a sectional event, or a national competition, you are part of the NFAA family.

We look forward to another year of progress, friendship, and unforgettable archery. We cannot wait to see you in 2026. See you on the range.

Best Regards,

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Rushmore Rumble

The fourth Annual Rushmore Rumble at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center delivered an exhilarating weekend of top-tier competition, drawing nearly 400 athletes from 36 U.S. states and five countries. Held January 3–5, 2025, the event showcased an impressive mix of elite talent and emerging archers, with new Junior Bowhunter and Barebow Recurve divisions, as well as Collegiate divisions, broadening opportunities for young and student-athletes. The tournament also reinforced the NFAA Foundation’s commitment to supporting the next generation of archers, awarding a total of $6,000 in scholarships across multiple divisions.

Spanning two days of intense competition, the Rushmore Rumble challenged archers with a mix of demanding formats. On Day 1, competitors shot a 600 Vegas round on the distinctive 40 cm 5-spot target, unique to this event. The 5-spot target featured scoring areas from 10-7, requiring accuracy and consistency. Archers also had the option to compete on the 40 cm single-spot target, which featured scoring rings from 10-1, with each end consisting of five arrows shot within a four-minute time limit.

Day 2 brought the traditional Vegas 300 round, a staple in high-level indoor archery competition. Archers chose between the 40 cm 3-spot or single-spot target, shooting 10 ends of three arrows, with a two-minute time limit per end. These rounds tested both precision and endurance, pushing competitors to perform under pressure.

Standout Performances & Division Winners

The weekend was filled with remarkable performances across multiple divisions. Several archers delivered flawless rounds, underscoring the high level of talent present at the event. Among them, Alexis Ruiz dominated the Championship Compound Female division with a perfect 900 score, while Grant Schleusner did the same in the Championship Compound Senior division. Lawson Veit also shot a perfect 900 in the Collegiate Compound Male category, securing his victory and earning a spot in the highly anticipated Open shoot-off.

Olympic medalist Brady Ellison reaffirmed his position as one of the world’s top archers by winning the Championship Recurve Male title, showcasing his exceptional skill and composure. Meanwhile, Zakary Bisinger emerged victorious in the Championship Barebow Recurve Open division, further demonstrating the growing competitiveness in the Barebow category.

Thrilling Championship Shoot-Off

The most electrifying moment of the weekend came during the Championship Compound Open shoot-off, which saw 13 archers enter after posting perfect 900 scores across both days. As the shoot-off progressed, competitors were gradually eliminated, culminating in a high-stakes final duel between defending champion Bodie Turner and Mathias Fullerton. In one of the most intense shoot-offs in Rushmore Rumble history, Turner and Fullerton matched each other arrow for arrow, delivering perfect X’s for an astounding 66 arrows. However, in the 23rd end, Fullerton made a rare mistake, narrowly missing the X-ring. Turner capitalized on the opportunity, maintaining his precision to successfully defend his title and secure another dramatic victory.

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3 Matthew Faust US-WI 879 36 $140.00

4 Colin Healy US-SD 877 41 $90.00

5 Larry Dahlberg US-WY 876 41

6 Lucas Hayes US-ID 876 37

7 Ella OBrien US-AZ 876 36

8 Kyley Kordick US-IA 875 28

9 Riley Laws US-MO 874 31

10 Mara Craghead US-WA 873 52

11 Tayonna Rendon US-UT 873 37

12 Katie Shepherd US-IA 872 42

13 Noah Denker US-MO 872 40

14 Russell Wood US-KS 869 41

15 Chet Mainwaring US-ID 869 26

16 Megan Gearhart US-IA 867 28

Compound Flight 5

1 Preston Hall US-WI 870 36 $320.00

2 Trista Klemish US-WI 868 31 $180.00

3 Jason Gurney US-KS 866 40 $120.00

4 George Clark US-SD 864 25 $80.00

5 Ray Manfull US-KS 863 32

6 Bradley Veith US-ND 863 27

6 Mike Jeanotte US-ND 863 27

8 Jared Crowther USA 862 32

9 Elizabeth Welsh US-NE 858 30

10 Michael Pettit US-CO 858 21

11 Arron Willis US-MN 855 30

12 Caitlin Griffin US-MN 854 21

13 Jordan Bressler US-WA 852 30

14 Jen Grissman US-WI 850 23

15 Camren Luther US-MN 849 17

16 Rosie Cobb US-IA 848 22

Compound Flight 6

1 Christopher Waterman CAN 853 25 $240.00

2 Robert Warren US-WI 849 36 $140.00

3 Dillon Law US-SD 844 20 $90.00

4 Matt Vollmers US-ND 843 23 $60.00

5 Andrew Pritchard US-MN 843 20

6 Brian Thomas US-NE 832 18

7 Charne Esterhuyse CAN 832 17

8 Presley Crowther US-UT 831 15

9 Nicole Schwebach US-SD 829 19

10 Jason Borys CAN 827 21

11 Scot Hilden US-CO 826 14

12 Shannon Craig US-CO 821 19

13 Taylor Hamrick USA 815 16

14 Jake Barker US-MN 806 13

15 Mike Nelson US-CO 796 12

16 James Apfelbeck US-WI 789 11

Compound Flight 7

1 Al Cozzetto US-CO 785 12 $205.00

2 William Cammarn US-KS 784 7 $115.00

3 Patricia Lewis US-MN 780 8 $75.00

4 Steph Gibson US-MN 776 17 $50.00

5 Sandy Thorup USA 760 7

6 Nathan Laws US-MO 753

4 Elianna Hanley US-NE 652 3 $155.00

5 Archana Kongara US-TX 636 4

6 Hailey Moore US-MO 627 4

7 Vincent Harl US-IA 496 2

8 Sydney Nelson US-IA 470 2

9 Remy Lee US-MN 468 0

10 Gina Anderson US-MN 387 1

11 Zane Becker-Byrd US-IA 189 0 Crossbow Unlimited Flight 1

1 Billy Martin US-CO 884 37 $100.00 Compound Young Adult Male

1 Chase Crotty US-WI 895 65 $400.00

2 Ben McFarland US-SD 890 47

3 Spencer VandenBoomen US-WI 888 48

4 Landon Tieszen US-SD 885 54

5 Tanner Overby US-SD 884 45

6 Eric Armstrong US-MN 880 41

7 Devon Mueller US-SD 878 40

8 Russell Walberg US-SD 877 33

9 Kadin Beneke US-ND 867 31

10 Orion Rathbun US-MN 863 27

11 Evan Littau US-SD 861 25

12 Brody Muchow US-SD 842 34

13 Parker Zimmerman US-ND 839 17

14 Caden Bentley US-OK 839 15

15 Levi Strong US-MN 838 21

16 Gregory Grabow US-SD 830 18

17 Jack McCann US-MN 829 13

18 Easton Mastel US-ND 813 11

19 Talin Abney-Cook US-NE 767 8 Compound Young Adult Female

1 Marla Rupar US-MN 895 67 $400.00 2 Jadan Reed US-WI 892 53

3 Molly McClure US-TN 882 42

4 Aria Grissman US-WI 876 22

5 Hatley Hetletved US-ND 872 36

6 Zoe Peterson US-ND 871 36

7 Savannah Fischer US-SD 867 27

8 Veronica Burke US-TX 866 27

9 Sophia Adams US-MN 865 22

10 Kendal Winckler US-TX 850 19

11 Annabelle Kelso US-ID 848 19

12 Leah Went US-NE 839 24

13 Tirzah Herold US-CO 835 26 14 Paige Wolkerstorfer US-MN 823 15

Natasha Roeder US-ND 802 15

Kacia Berg US-ND 749 7

Cheyenne Skillman US-OR 741 6

Payton McNurlin US-MN 723 7 Compound Youth Male

1 Zakary Golden

Diezel Cullen US-WI 855 27 8 Chase Saunier US-MN 850 23 9 Wyatt Wiedenmeyer US-MN 838 19

Dakota Clark US-MN 812 15

Ayden Prentice US-IL 810 18 12 Tucker Craig US-CO 787 10 13 Liam Steinmeyer

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Indoor National championshps

The National Field Archery Association (NFAA) Indoor National Championships concluded an exhilarating weekend of competition at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall in Chicago, IL, with top archers from across the nation and beyond coming together to showcase their skills. Nearly 900 participants from 48 states and 9 countries took part in the event from February 14-16.

The event saw fierce competition across multiple divisions, with elite professionals and rising amateur talent vying for national titles. The championship’s signature two-day, 120-arrow format on the NFAA blue/ white target face pushed competitors to showcase their precision and consistency under intense pressure. Spectators witnessed remarkable displays of accuracy as archers battled for top honors in their respective categories.

One of the most thrilling moments came in the Men’s Professional division, where James Lutz maintained his composure and emerged victorious after a dramatic 20-person shoot-off, which included many of the top names in archery. In the Women’s Professional division, Ella Gibson stood out as the only archer to score 120 Xs, earning her the outright win. Her stellar performance cemented her status as one of the premier competitors in the sport.

In addition to the competition, the NFAA Indoor Nationals featured an interactive archery tradeshow, where attendees explored the latest gear, innovations, and technology in the sport. The Meet the Pros and Pro-Am events were highlights of the weekend, providing amateurs the opportunity to connect with and meet many of the world’s top professional archers. Fans and aspiring athletes alike gained valuable insights into training techniques, equipment advancements, and the dedication required to compete at the highest levels of the sport. The event once again proved to be a cornerstone of the archery community, bringing together enthusiasts of all ages in celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and passion for the sport.

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The Great Chicago Open, held February 13-14, 2025, at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, brought top archers from around the world to compete in the fifth stage of the Indoor World Series (IWS). This year’s tournament was historic, marking the IWS’s first-ever stop in Chicago—and the first U.S. stage outside Las Vegas! What is the Indoor World Series?

The IWS is a winter series of open-entry tournaments where amateur archers compete alongside professionals. Elite ranking points are awarded in the Senior Compound and Recurve categories, with top scorers advancing to the IWS Finals at The Vegas Shoot. The 2024-25 season began in November 2024 and wrapped up in March 2025, with events in Switzerland, Luxembourg, Chinese Taipei, France, and the U.S.

The Great Chicago Open

The Chicago event featured a World Archery 60-arrow qualification round and elimination matches, awarding medals and prize money to top finishers. Senior Men’s and Women’s Compound and Recurve champions each earned $2,500, with payouts for other top placements. Scholarships were also awarded to U18 and U21 competitors, highlighting a focus on future talent.

Elite Competition & Back-to-Back Challenges

The tournament saw fierce competition. Mike Schloesser won the Compound Men’s division with a world-class performance, while Sarah Prieels dominated the Compound Women’s bracket. Devaang Gupta claimed his first major international win in Recurve Men’s with an upset over Olympic medalist Brady Ellison, and Casey Kaufhold triumphed in a close Recurve Women’s final against Ana Maria Rendon. Elizabeth Howe and Zackary Bisinger took top honors in the Barebow Women and Men’s divisions, respectively.

A key highlight was the chance for archers to compete in both the Great Chicago Open and the NFAA National Indoor Championships, creating an exciting backto-back challenge. The event also featured a lively archery tradeshow and exclusive seminars, drawing spectators, pros, and enthusiasts alike.

The scores on the next pages are from the Qualifying rounds. The final Ranking is based on the elimination round.

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2024 Member of the Year: Jay Lindsey

Congratulations to Jay Lindsey on being awarded the 2024 National Field Archery Association Member of the Year! This accolade recognizes his unwavering dedication, leadership, and the profound impact he has had on archers of all ages.

A Pillar in the Archery Community

Jay’s unwavering dedication to creating a supportive and nurturing environment shines through in his interactions with young archers. His encouragement and enthusiasm have played a vital role in fostering youth participation and celebrating the sport’s continuous growth. Parents frequently express deep appreciation for his decade-long commitment to their children’s archery journeys, emphasizing how his expertise, kind words, and exemplary leadership have been instrumental in their development. One parent shared, “On a personal level, Mr. Jay has played a critical role in supporting our two children’s archery journey for over 10 years. From offering his archery expertise to his encouraging words, he has been an inspiration and role model for all archers, both young and experienced.”

Leadership Roles and Competitive Achievements

In the wake of Steve Coleman’s untimely passing, Jay stepped into the role of President of the Texas Field Archery Association (TFAA), having previously served as Field Governor since 2014. Beyond his administrative contributions, Jay is a formidable archer, boasting three NFAA Indoor Nationals Championships and numerous TFAA titles. His dual role as a leader and competitor exemplifies his dedication to promoting and advancing archery at both state and national levels.

Mentorship and Community Engagement

Jay’s influence extends beyond organizational leadership; he is a hands-on mentor and community builder. He consistently assists archers of all ages, offering equipment support and valuable shooting advice. His generosity includes lending personal equipment to fellow archers for tournaments, ensuring they have the resources needed to compete effectively. His commitment to the sport is further demonstrated through his involvement in organizing tournaments at local shops, including the Indoor State Championship and Indoor Sectionals. These events, often attracting over 400 participants, benefit from Jay’s meticulous planning and dedication, ensuring they run smoothly and provide an optimal environment for archers to excel. His welcoming nature encourages new shooters, as he makes it a point to introduce himself to unfamiliar faces and invite them to participate in tournaments, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

A Personal Touch

Many archers credit Jay with their successes, noting his willingness to provide practice facilities and personalized coaching. One archer shared how practicing on Jay’s range enhanced their preparation, contributing significantly to winning a state championship and earning the Shooter of the Year award. Such testimonials underscore Jay’s

investment in the success and growth of individual archers.

Jay Lindsey’s recognition as the 2024 NFAA Member of the Year is a testament to his multifaceted contributions to the archery community. His leadership, mentorship, and personal generosity have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring both seasoned and aspiring archers alike.

1. How did you get started in archery and how long have you been involved with the sport?

I bought my first bow, an Allen compound, in 1971 to start bow hunting. That was 54 years ago.

2. How has your involvement in the sport changed over the years?

When I first started shooting archery, my intention was to be able to start bow hunting a month before gun season. In the first few months after buying my first bow, I started upgrading my equipment, buying a Jennings target bow and a Jennings Hunter. Jennings was the Cadillac of bows at the time. I started shooting indoor leagues and going to field tournaments a few months after I started shooting.

After I retired, I started trying to give back to the sport. I began serving on various archery committees, becoming a member of the TFAA and the NFAA Board of Directors. I worked with Charles Yardley at Cinnamon Creek in growing the Youth and Young Adult archery program in North Texas.

3. What is your favorite thing about archery?

I have enjoyed the camaraderie, competition and making friends all over the United States through shooting archery. We have enjoyed traveling to lots of beautiful ranges to compete.

4. What is your fondest archery memory?

My fondest archery memory has to be when I was inducted into the Texas Field Archery Hall of Fame in 2022.

5. Which type of archery are you the most passionate about and why?

I am most passionate about Field Archery. I started out many years ago competing in Field tournaments. Field was huge when I first started competing, and that is where I developed an obsession for archery. I primarily shoot Indoor or American 900 tournaments now, but my first love is still Field.

6. Who would you say has been your greatest archery mentor?

I have had many archery mentors, but I would say John Nowell had the most Influence on me being where I am today in archery. John sold me my first bows. He introduced me to competition archery and tutored me during my early archery years. He would take a group of us to field tournaments across Texas in his big van.

7. What would you say is your greatest contribution to the sport thus far?

I have held several positions in TFAA and NFAA, but I am most proud of being instrumental in establishing an annual $5,000 TFAA Scholarship for graduating High School Seniors who have been actively involved in archery.

8. Where would you like to see archery in the next 10 years?

Archery, primarily indoor, has had an amazing growth over the past 10 years in Texas. I would like to see archers who love shooting field, mentor the up-and-coming generation of young archers, showing them how much fun it is to shoot outdoor target archery. We have classes before the season starts in April on shooting field archery, explaining the different targets and distances you will shoot. I think this is helping increase the number of Youth and Young Adults trying Field Archery.

2024 club of the year: Break the Barriers

Break the Barriers (BTB) has truly set the standard for excellence in the archery community, earning the welldeserved recognition as the 2024 NFAA Club of the Year. With a mission rooted in inclusion, accessibility, and passion for the sport, BTB has created a welcoming environment where archers of all ages and abilities can thrive.

A Club Built on Growth and Community

Over the past year, BTB has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its reach to serve even more archers from diverse backgrounds. The club fosters a friendly and supportive atmosphere, where both new and experienced archers feel welcomed and encouraged. From dedicated coaches to enthusiastic members, BTB exemplifies what it means to build a true archery family.

The club’s dedication to young archers is especially noteworthy. By creating a space where kids can develop their skills while having fun, BTB ensures that archery remains an enjoyable and engaging sport for the next generation. Their events are well-organized and incredibly fun, making every tournament and practice session an unforgettable experience.

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility

BTB’s mission is to celebrate the victories of all abilities, ethnicities, and ages through exceptional programs and outreach. The organization offers specialized programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, ensuring that archery is accessible to everyone. From children on the autism spectrum to individuals with Down syndrome, BTB provides adaptive coaching and tailored support, allowing all athletes to develop their skills, confidence, and sense of belonging.

In addition to serving youth and adaptive athletes, BTB has made a significant impact through its Veterans Program, offering archery as a therapeutic outlet for those who have served. This free program provides veterans with a supportive and encouraging space to engage in the sport, benefiting their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Outstanding Leadership and Instruction

The leadership and coaching staff at BTB have been instrumental in expanding and strengthening the club. The archery program has continued to grow, recruiting more members each year while maintaining a high standard of instruction. Their hands-on approach ensures that every archer receives the guidance they need, whether it’s adjusting equipment, refining their stance, or improving their technique.

A Model for Archery Clubs Everywhere

Break the Barriers goes above and beyond in promoting the sport of archery, creating a space where competition, camaraderie, and community come together. Their unwavering commitment to inclusion, their passion for teaching, and their ability to create opportunities for archers of all backgrounds make them a shining example of what an archery club should be.

1. When was Break the Barriers formed and how has the club evolved over the years?

Break the Barriers, Inc. (BTB), a non-profit (501)(c)(3) corporation since 1984, is the National Role Model for Inclusion given by the US Department of Education and Special Education. Break the Barriers’ pioneering outreach has impacted over 200 million people worldwide and has even been a part of changing government policies in other countries, saving countless lives. From 2005-2021, BTB partnered with the US Embassy in Romania for Ability Awareness, Outreach, and Inclusion Education training, as well as China, the Dominican Republic, India, South Africa, Guatemala, Peru, the Philippines, Canada, Australia, and Qatar.

2. What types of events and/or programs does Break the Barriers offer?

At the International Ability Center in Fresno, California, BTB offers 27 inclusive programs to all ages, including FREE services to 6,200+ military veterans and active duty since 2012. Break the Barriers is now the largest recreational facility free to Vets outside of the VA in the nation with no support from federal or state funding. BTB offers free services, including school and literacy programs, to inner-city youth of incarcerated parents, children who have been saved from being trafficked, Ukrainian and Afghan refugees, and children with autism.

Incredibly, BTB sees 400 archers at its club activities every week. As the organization’s need continues to grow in sports like archery, it’s important for us to partner with like-minded organizations such as the NFAA. One way we do this is through hosting the NFAA 1-arrow 3D National Championship each year.

3. What is the best advice you could give to a new club or non-profit organization trying to get started?

Surround yourself with like-minded individuals, partner with organizations that share the same cause, stay true to your mission, and keep your integrity intact. First and foremost, always remember to make it a great experience for the archers.

4. What do you believe is the reason behind the success of Break the Barriers?

We attribute our success in part to our focus on growth and retention. Not only do we seek new archers, we attract family and friends from their existing members and structure classes with fun archery games and tournaments to keep archers in our programs for more than 2 years.

5. What are the future plans for Break the Barriers?

For us at BTB, we know it is the Lord’s place! There are too many miracles to say otherwise. The future is certainly bright for the club. What’s next? Expansion! The club has grown out of its 39,000 sq. ft. facility and looks to provide more space for their fastest-growing sport: ARCHERY!

The Vegas Shoot 2025 once again delivered thrilling competition, historic moments, and unforgettable experiences as archers from around the world gathered at its new mid-Strip venues: Paris, Horseshoe, and Planet Hollywood. After being hosted at the South Point Hotel and Casino since 2012, the event outgrew its previous location due to its rapid expansion in recent years. The move to the new resorts offered a range of improvements, including expanded event space, a stunning setting for the finals, more hotel rooms close to the event, a wider selection of dining options, and a prime location to enjoy all the attractions of the Las Vegas Strip.

The Vegas Shoot

One of the most exciting features of this year’s event was the Finals, held in the spectacular PH Live Theater at Planet Hollywood. This 4,500-seat venue, renowned for hosting top entertainers like Britney Spears and Jennifer Lopez, provided a world-class setting for the Championship Shoot-offs. Thanks to the generosity of the Easton Foundation and NFAA Foundation, free tickets were provided, filling the theater with eager spectators. The event did not disappoint, offering incredible graphics, lighting, and an elite show experience that the archery world had never seen before.

One of the most inspiring competitors was 103-year-old World War II veteran Charles Johnson, who returned for his third Vegas Shoot. Having taken up archery just seven years ago, Johnson continued to enjoy the sport’s community: “I love meeting people, and if I can inspire others, that’s important to me.”

The Vegas Shoot consistently unites archers of all ages and skill levels, from aspiring young talents to lifelong enthusiasts, alongside the world’s top professionals. Junior archers competed over two exciting days, culminating in a vibrant celebration of their accomplishments on Saturday evening. The presence of their archery idols made the event even more special, creating one of the most memorable moments of the entire tournament.

Shoot-offs were not required to determine the champions in the Championship Compound Senior Men’s and Women’s divisions, as Grant Schleusner claimed his elusive Vegas title with a flawless 900, and Corrine Hockett delivered a standout performance to claim victory. Multi-time Olympic medalist Brady Ellison lived up to expectations in the Championship Recurve Men’s division, topping the field with a score of 893. Zackary Bisinger extended his remarkable season with a commanding victory in the Championship Barebow Recurve division, while Caelan Shanklin claimed the top spot in the Championship Recurve Young Adult division.

On Sunday afternoon at PH Live Theater, the Championship Compound Young Adult division saw a thrilling showdown for first place between Jacob Merkel and Caleb Quiocho, both tied at 899 after three days. Quiocho secured back-to-back Vegas titles with a perfect 30 in the second shoot-off end. In the Championship Recurve Women’s division, Olympic bronze medalist Casey Kaufhold won her second Vegas title on the big stage, outlasting France’s Victoria Sebastian in a tense three-end final.

With elite competition, historic performances, and an upgraded venue, The Vegas Shoot 2025 cemented its place as the ultimate gathering for archers worldwide.

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A Move Built for Growth: The Next Chapter of the Vegas Shoot

The world’s largest indoor archery tournament entered an exciting new chapter this year. The 2025 Vegas Shoot officially landed right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, marking one of the most significant evolutions in the event’s 59-year history.

After more than a decade at the South Point Hotel & Casino, the event’s continued growth demanded more space, more capacity, and a more elevated experience for archers and fans alike. The move to Horseshoe Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas, and Planet Hollywood delivered exactly that by combining worldclass facilities with the unmistakable energy of the Strip.

A Transition Driven by Growth and Global Demand

The Vegas Shoot has grown exponentially since its return to South Point in 2012. What began as a record-breaking gathering of archers each year has transformed into a global spectacle, hosting over 4,000 competitors from over 60 countries. With that growth came new challenges, including limited floor space, hotel availability, and the need for an expanded trade show and Finals experience.

The NFAA Operations Director, Brittany Salonen-Geuther, provided more details, “We were growing so much at South Point that we were bursting at the seams. We were out of hotel rooms, the restaurants were packed, and we felt like we had to take a leap. Everything is bigger and financially everything’s more expensive, but we can elevate the experience of The Vegas Shoot by having archers here on the Strip and surrounded by all the attractions.”

The new location answered those challenges. Together, the Horseshoe and Paris properties offer over 315,000 square feet of event space, thousands of hotel rooms within walking distance, and upgraded amenities for both competitors and spectators.

More Space, More Access, More Opportunity

The 2025 move was a complete redesign of the participant experience, transforming every aspect of how archers and spectators engage with The Vegas Shoot. Horseshoe served as the central hub for the Championship divisions, Junior divisions, and the vendor trade show, offering open, connected spaces that improved spectator flow and created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the main halls. Just next door, Paris Las Vegas hosted the Flight divisions, providing ample room

for the growing number of participants and ensuring every archer enjoyed a world-class competition environment.

The Championship Shoot-Off Finals found a dramatic new home inside Planet Hollywood’s PH Live Theater, a state-of-the-art venue with stadium-style seating for more than 4,500 spectators. The setting provides the Finals the spotlight it deserves, elevating the excitement for everyone in attendance.

Beyond the competition venues, the central location on the Strip now places attendees within steps of premier dining, entertainment, and hotel options, adding convenience and enhancing the overall experience. As Salonen-Geuther shared, “It’s the full Vegas experience. We love the South Point, but it was kind of away from it all. We just feel like this is such a great experience for all; for families, for couples, for people in their 20s and 30s, there’s something for everybody.”

Positioned for the Future

The 2025 event marks the start of a new era built on growth, accessibility, and global community. The move positions The Vegas Shoot to continue expanding its reach, attracting new audiences, and creating unforgettable moments for archers of every level.

From its beginnings in 1962 to its new home on the Strip, The Vegas Shoot remains true to what it has always been: a celebration of precision, passion, and the people who make archery great.

Bodie Turner: the 2025 vegas champion

Bodie Turner, at just 18 years old, claimed his second Vegas Shoot Championship Compound Open title after an intense 16-end battle, overcoming a field of 30 skilled archers.

Turner, the 2022 champion, stood tall once again under immense pressure. “Once you’re up there, you don’t really realize how long you’ve been shooting... it worked out well for me,” he said. “I was definitely more confident this year. I shot really well and had to hit inside-out X’s to win it.” Reflecting on his two victories, he added, “The other win meant a lot, but this one means more because I had to work so much harder for it. Where do I go from here? Three times!” The championship was played out in front of 4,500 spectators at the Planet Hollywood theater. Archers were assigned targets based on X-count ranking, and the competition quickly intensified. The first end, where only the ‘big’ ten-ring counted, saw two early eliminations, including 2011 runner-up Martin Damsbo and Luis Elumba. The second end raised the stakes, requiring inner X-ring hits to score, leading to the departure of 13 competitors.

As the competition progressed, the field continued to shrink. By the eighth end, only seven archers remained, including former champions Mathias Fullerton, Christopher Perkins, and Mike Schloesser. The ‘Lucky Dog,’ Ojas Pravin Deotale, held on until the eighth end before bowing out. With five archers left by the tenth end—four of them previous champions—the pressure was at its peak. All maintained perfect scores through the eleventh, forcing the use of the ‘inside-out X’ rule in the fourteenth end.

For the first time in Vegas Shoot history, only inside-out X’s would count as tens—shots merely touching the inner ring would be downgraded to nines. Nicolas Girard and Perkins managed to hit their marks, while Fullerton was eliminated with a 27. Three archers remained: Girard, Turner, and Perkins. In the fifteenth end, Turner and Girard delivered perfect shots, while Perkins fell short, finishing third.

The final round saw Turner deliver a razor-close inside-out ten. Girard, unable to match it, finished as the runner-up. With incredible composure and precision, Turner emerged victorious, securing his second Vegas Championship after one of the most dramatic and hard-fought finals in the tournament’s history.

The podium was set: Bodie Turner took the top spot, followed by Nicolas Girard in second place and Christopher Perkins in third. Turner’s victory not only solidified his place as a rising star but also hinted that this level of intense competition is here to stay in future Vegas Shoot finals.

“Where do I go from here? Three times!”

Gracen Fletcher Makes History with Perfect 900 to Win Vegas Shoot Title

After three days of intense competition, Gracen Fletcher, an 18-yearold archer from Indiana, emerged as the only competitor to stay clean, securing the Women’s Championship Compound title outright.

“It’s crazy. My shot felt good all weekend, so I had a lot of confidence coming in today. But to come out here, fight the nerves, and shoot a 900—it’s absolutely amazing,” she said.

At the start of the final day, five archers remained perfect, but all except Fletcher and Alejandra Usquiano dropped a point before the last end. As they stepped up for the final shots, Usquiano sent her first arrow high into the nine, leaving Fletcher in control. With unwavering composure, she closed out the round to claim both the title and her place in the history books.

Fletcher, who finished 18th in the same competition last year with an 896, was overwhelmed by the achievement. “Absolutely amazing, super thrilled. You just do the best you can to get up there and try to make the best shot you can, no matter what,” she said.

There was an unprecedented 11-way tie to determine the second place finisher behind Fletcher in the Women’s Championship Compound division. The shoot-off was contested between the current “who’s-who” of the best female compound archers in the world who all finished with 899 points. Ultimately, former Vegas Champions Paige Pearce and Ella Gibson outlasted the field to take second and third place honors, respectively. The stand-alone winner, Fletcher joins an exclusive club as only the ninth woman ever to shoot a perfect 900 in Vegas. Mary Hamm (née Zorn) was the first to achieve this milestone in 2004, followed by Sarah Lance a decade later in 2014. Tanja Gellenthien has since set the record for the most 900s shot by a woman, accomplishing the feat in 2017, 2022, 2023, and 2024, winning the title in 2017 and the last two editions. Incredibly, at least one woman has scored 900 every year since 2019, signaling the increasing depth of competition in the women’s field.

With top female archers consistently reaching this benchmark, it may only be a matter of time before more women compete in the Championship Compound Open division. The category has been open to both men and women since 2017, though Colombia’s Sara Lopez remains the only woman to have entered. She competed that same year, scoring 898 and finishing 79th.

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Championship Results

900 Club

michael allman remington boyer matthew burns gaius carter ace coleman
martin damsbo pJ deloche
Luis Elumba gracen fletcher mathias fullerton
sebastian garcia nicolas girard colton green lewis holmes nick ingham

Since Terry Ragsdale shot the first 900 in 1985, only a handful of archers each year are able to push through the pressure to join this exclusive club. To join the 900 Club, archers must shoot 90 perfect arrows in the 4cm wide 10-ring over three days of cut-throat competition. Not pictured: Pietro Fabiani - Compound Flights, Grant Schleusner - Championship Compound Senior

Tim Jevsnik Nick Kappers
tyson kline james lutz chris perkins
jeff raney braden reed
kris schaff mike schloesser taylor spoolstra
sawyer sullivan travis tracey bodie turner nico wiener rishabh yadav

From $10K Triumphs to Lucky Dog Glory

The 2025 edition of The Vegas Shoot showcased its signature high-stakes events — the daily $10K shoot-offs and the iconic Lucky Dog competition — all leading up to Sunday’s Championship shootdown. These showdowns brought to life the skill, nerve, and precision that make The Vegas Shoot the premier destination in archery. Each shoot-off follows the sudden-death single-arrow format: archers who tie for the highest score advance while anyone missing is eliminated, round after round, until a sole winner emerges. To gain an edge when aiming for inside-out Xs, archers often switch to skinnier arrows or adjust their sight reticle, highlighting the unique strategies involved in these shoot-offs.

$10K-A-Day Shoot-Offs Bring the Heat in Vegas

Introduced in 2019, the $10K-A-Day shoot-offs on the first two days of the Championship rounds have become marquee events. Championship-division archers who shoot perfect 300s and opted in during registration qualify for a winner-takes-all contest for a $10,000 prize. The tension, format, and payout make this a highlight for both competitors and fans alike.

Day 1 Champion: Stephan Hansen – On Thursday, the Danish archer locked in the first big payday. After 79 eligible archers (including 11 women) shot 300s to qualify, Hansen clinched the $10K on his third arrow in the shoot-off.

Day 2 Champion: Batuhan Akçaoglu – On Friday, Turkey’s Akçaoglu outlasted a field of 96 archers who had shot 300 that day. After three arrows, he faced India’s Abhishek Verma in a final end and secured the $10K prize.

The Lucky Dog Shoot-Off: A Beloved Vegas Tradition

The Lucky Dog Shoot-Off remains one of the most iconic traditions at The Vegas Shoot. This competition gives Championship Open division archers who scored 899 in qualification a chance to compete against the perfect 900s for the $50,000 grand prize. However, if the Lucky Dog archer is eliminated during the Championship Shoot-Off, they are placed at the bottom of the 900 shooters, regardless of when they are eliminated. This make-or-break opportunity has spectators on the edge of their seats, often rallying behind the Lucky Dog dark horse.

India’s Ojas Pravin Deotale captured the 2025 Lucky Dog title against 42 archers, including a dramatic final shoot-off against his indian teammate, Abhishek Verma. Both archers matched each other arrow for arrow, hitting the inside-out X simultaneously throughout the shoot-off, until Deotale finally nailed the perfect shot in the eighth end to secure victory. Deotale’s victory placed him in a unique position: he moved into the Finals on Sunday alongside the perfect-900 shooters with a shot at the big prize — and regardless of the outcome, he secured the top monetary prize among all 899 scorers.

The results from these subsidiary showdowns underscore the global reach and elite competitiveness of The Vegas Shoot: archers from across continents converging in Las Vegas for multi-day battles under immense pressure.

stephan hansen
batuhan akcaoglu
Ojas pravin deotale

Flights Results

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1 Roberinson Henderson US-UT 876

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3 Zachary Cotonuts US-CO 871 39 $90.00

4 Isabelle Justice US-UT 871 33 $85.00

5 Caitlin Griffin US-MN 871

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7 Aria Grissman US-WI 870 35 $55.00

8 Steven Gibson US-NV 869 34 $50.00

8 Jordan Leong US-HI 869 34 $50.00

1 Boris Matevosyan US-CA 869 37 $220.00

2 Taya Haskett US-ID 869 30 $120.00

3 Brian Calvillo USA 868 31 $85.00

4 Jodie Brown US-MN 868 27 $75.00

5 Jay Johnson US-WY 867 35 $65.00

6 Carlos Espejo Diaz MEX 867 31 $60.00

7 Jim Kesinger US-IL 867 30 $55.00

8 Matt Anderson US-WA 866 35 $50.00

Compound Flights - Flight 20

1 Darrin DeReu US-NC 870 43 $120.00

2 Rickard Johansson SWE 869 34 $110.00

3 Ben Willems BEL 867 40 $80.00

4 Dustin Grate US-NV 867 39 $65.00

5 Peter Vandekerkhof BEL 867 38 $60.00

6 Madison Fisher US-UT 865 37 $55.00

7 Daniel Dietz GER 865 19 $50.00

8 Steve Laird US-UT 863 38 $45.00 Compound Flights -

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2 Aleigha McDonald US-MS 848 19 $245.00

3 Kinley Hetletved US-ND 845 12 $160.00

4 Kray Lutz US-WY 844 15 $120.00

5 Justin Lanman US-OK 843 19 $90.00

6 Jorge Salinas US-TX 842 22 $80.00

7 Gideon Facio US-CA 842 17 $75.00

7 Fred Shao CHN 842 17 $75.00

Flights - Flight 7

1 Tyson Fujimoto US-HI 839 21 $300.00

2 Shannon OShea US-HI 837 15 $220.00

3 Fletcher Bennett US-AZ 836 21 $140.00

4 Logan Cunningham US-WV 833 17 $110.00

5 Aspen McCallum US-TX 831 17 $80.00

6 Sarah Shults US-WA 830 22 $70.00

7 Brittney Bathurst US-AZ 829 14 $65.00

7 Javier Olmo PUR 829 14 $65.00

Flights - Flight 8

1 Mark Hanson US-AZ 830 17 $250.00

2 Austin Spanfellner US-OR 826 20 $170.00

3 Kenneth Niles US-CA 824 12 $100.00

4 Stephanie Camacho US-AZ 823 16 $90.00

5 Donnie Ward US-CO 823 13 $75.00

6 Trail Kreitzer US-UT 822 21 $65.00

7 Jonna Ward US-CO 822 19 $60.00

8 Alfredo Chavez US-CA 822 13 $55.00

1 Peyton Barstow US-ND 812 24 $200.00

2 Casey Wade US-TX 812 18 $145.00

3 Denny Woong

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2 Irene Zheng US-NJ 768 7 $210.00

3 Andreas Lorenz ITA 767 12 $160.00

4 Andrew Thompson US-SC 766 7 $135.00

5 Troy Bui US-CA 764 4 $110.00

6 Milan Skrecek CAN 763 6 $90.00

6 Dong Xiao US-CA 763 6 $85.00

8 Julia Chen US-NY 762 7 $80.00

Recurve Flights - Flight 7

1 Hailee Pringle US-SD 755 5 $350.00

2 Christina Hong US-NV 754 5 $185.00

3 Aden Wong US-CA 748 5 $140.00

4 Inkar Suragan US-CA 747 6 $110.00

5 Roger Hermosilla US-CA 747 5 $90.00

6 LeAnn Starr US-UT 747 4 $80.00

7 Gabriel Querol US-IL 746 8 $75.00

8 Brian Delgado US-CA 746 5 $70.00

8 James Nguyen US-CA 746 5 $70.00

Recurve Flights - Flight 8

1 Michael Sinclair US-CA 746 10 $275.00

2 Smriti Shridhar US-TX 746 9 $160.00

3 Jesse Dai USA 738 4 $125.00

3 Celia Wong US-CA 738 4 $100.00

5 Chris Estoque US-CA 736 5 $80.00

5 Jennifer Wu US-CA 736 5 $70.00

7 Emily Wilson US-CO 735 7 $65.00

8 Jacob Montenegro US-CA 730 3 $60.00

Recurve Flights - Flight 9

1 Haozi Chen CHN 729 7 $250.00

2 Verlan LeBaron III US-OR 718 1 $140.00

3 Aleksandar Nikolaev US-NV 716 2 $100.00

4 Archer Strauss US-VT 715 6 $90.00

5 Daniel Ramos MEX 715 3 $70.00

6 Steve Andre Gopee TTO 714 6 $65.00

7 Eddie Icaza ECU 713 4 $60.00

8 Sage Roys US-WA 712 3 $55.00

Recurve Flights - Flight 10

1 Collin McLean US-NY 711 5 $200.00

2 Austin Huang US-CA 703 6 $100.00

3 Alice Zhou US-CA 702 5 $85.00

4 Rachel Rickert US-IA 698 5 $75.00

5 Kenya Boone US-TX 697 3 $65.00

6 Blake Romrell US-UT 693 6 $60.00

7 Yongneng Wu US-CA 690 5 $55.00

8 Gary Hall US-AZ 690 4 $45.00 Recurve Flights - Flight 11

1 Zhenye Li CHN 686 1 $200.00

2 George Wheeler US-CA 684 5 $100.00

3 Jennifer Murphy US-CA 672 5 $85.00

4 Cristian Gonzaleaz USA 667 3 $75.00

5 Kevin Thompson US-CA 665 4 $65.00

6 Kyle Jacob Canturia US-CA 665 1 $60.00

6 Morgan Kehlenbach US-AZ 665 1 $60.00

8 Christopher Plumeau US-CA 661 4 $45.00 Recurve Flights - Flight 12

1 Ruilin Gao CHN 643 2 $150.00

2 Mariamor Rangel MEX 637 3 $95.00

3 Kweli Khieu US-OR 636 3 $75.00

4 Gillian Nishi US-CT 635 1 $70.00

5 Jaden Lee US-CA 633 1 $55.00

6 David Jang US-NJ 630 4 $50.00

7 Bryn Tschabrun US-UT 627 1 $45.00

8 Yihong Li CHN 626 3 $40.00

Recurve Flights - Flight 13

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Junior Results

Celebrating the next generation at the vegas shoot

The Vegas Shoot 2025 was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of young talent, passion, and perseverance. One of the most inspiring moments came from the Junior Scholarship Contest, where Isabelle Bowler and Kenta Kwong Hin Sang each earned a $1,000 scholarship for their heartfelt stories about how archery has shaped their lives.

“I almost didn’t sign up this year,” Isabelle shared. “I tried last year and didn’t get it, so I’m kind of thrilled this year.” Her essay reflected the deep, personal connection she has with archery, describing the sensation of time standing still at full draw.

Kenta’s story was a testament to resilience. “I wrote about my journey from not knowing anything about archery, to falling in love with it, and then just as I was starting to improve, I got injured. I talked about the support of the community that helped me get back on my feet, and how grateful I am to still be able to practice. I’m very thankful for this award.”

But the experience wasn’t just about the scholarships—junior archers embraced the full Vegas Shoot adventure. Many, like Bo Martinek, who won the Bowhunter Cub Male division, felt the pressure but rose to the challenge. “It was a little nerve-racking, but I got through it,” he said.

For others, the highlight came after the awards, at the Meet the Pros event, where young archers had the chance to connect with some of the biggest names in the sport. Sophia Porter, who placed 12th in Compound Youth Female, was especially excited to meet her favorite pro, Paige Pearce. “I’ve been following her for—I don’t even know how long, actually.”

The Junior Awards Ceremony and Meet the Pros event on Saturday evening stood out as a true highlight, offering young archers the chance to meet their idols, collect autographs, and celebrate their achievements. The night was filled with excitement, featuring free giveaways, a live DJ, dancing, and plenty of ice cream. For many, it was the weekend’s most memorable moment, as it brought the archery community together for a fun and meaningful celebration of the sport’s rising stars.

With over $65,000 awarded in scholarships and prizes this year, the event remains committed to helping the next generation of archers pursue both their athletic and academic dreams. Top finishers in the Junior divisions earned $1,000, $750, and $300 scholarships for first through third place, while Collegiate archers received individual and team scholarships of $750, $500, and $300. As The Vegas Shoot continues to grow, it remains dedicated to fostering the future of the sport while celebrating archery’s best on its grandest stage.

Scholarship Recipients

COMPOUND

Young Adult Female: Jadan Reed, Hunter Ivie, Savannah O’Donohue

Young Adult Male: Zakary Golden, Landon Tieszen, Maverick Lewis

Youth Male: Easton Rupp, Connor Goehring, Case Scott

Youth Female: Chloe Nelsen, Reese Peterson, Klayre Smith

Cub Male: Cole Nash, Isaiah Mendenhall, Jace Golden

Cub Female: Miranda Meighen, Alaska Harris, Sofia Soler

RECURVE

Young Adult Male: Jack Chen, Jack Houghton, Maxwell Hernandez

Young Adult Female: Madelyn Yi, Andrea Ciotinga, Hailey Franzone

Youth Male: Jiaxu Du, Alexander Zhang, Deion Kim

Youth Female: Madeleine Dodson, Dolly Sivani Cherukuri, Jina Chon

Cub Male: Haku Peters, Duke Kim, Zayden Boone

Cub Female: Eugenia Flores, Ella Phillips, Isabella de Hoyos

BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE

Young Adult Male: Isaac Mayer, Chase Manor, Kyler Clark

Young Adult Female: Jeannie Hite, Lillian Dillon, Maddison Stratton

Youth Male: Nico Blom, Orion Vicenti, Carter Conlon

Youth Female: Auri Murray, Lilly Koons, Sophia Venegas

Cub Male: Bo Martinek, Oliver Tressler, Carl Rice

Cub Female: Amaris DeHoyos, Siena Shina, Baylee Kalscheuer

RECURVE BAREBOW

Young Adult Male: Nicolas Powell, Brayden Evans, Nicholas Childs

Young Adult Female: Yunyan Zhu, Grace Fu, Jaelyn Coleman

Youth Male: Derek Tang, Albert Fu, Wesley Frevert

Youth Female: Hannah Wang, Avery Wiese, Theresa Desiree Noor

Cub Male: Eeshwar Kollu, Grayson Fisher, Lucien Nguyen

Cub Female: Harper Blaylock, Esmay Ramirez, Meadow Frevert

COLLEGIATE

Compound Male: Sawyer Sullivan, Colton Green, Braden Reed

Compound Female: Morgan Rives, Sydney Sullenberger, Carson Krahe, Samantha Roberts

Recurve Male: Alex Gilliam, Venugopal Kunnavakkam, Jack Krengel

Recurve Female: Eunice Haeri Choi, Laurel Anderson, Judith Gottlieb

Bowhunter Male: Cody Mosley, Garrett Crocker, Wesley Ellsworth

Bowhunter Female: Abigail Veidmark, Danielle Pollard, Karen Waters

Recurve Barebow Male: Logan Bennett, David Hollenberg, John Sarazin

Recurve Barebow Female: Sarah Kate Jentsch, Paige Potteiger, Savannah Chouinard

Collegiate Team: Texas A&M, Lindenwood University, University of Rio Grande

scores, tournament info and more at

Collegiate Results

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& NFAA

1-Arrow 3d Nationals

The 2025 NFAA & Break the Barriers (BTB) 1-Arrow 3D National Championship unfolded April 12–13 at the scenic Wagner Ranch in Fresno, California, drawing 480 archers for a weekend of elite competition, meaningful connection, and shared purpose. Now in its third year as an official NFAA National Championship, the event continues to build momentum, growing in both size and significance.

Over two days, archers tested their skill and focus across 85 life-sized 3D targets—51 on Saturday and 34 on Sunday—shooting just one arrow per target. The unique 1-arrow, 12-ring scoring format demanded precision, consistency, and mental stamina, with every shot carrying weight in a tightly contested field.

A standout feature making its return was the National Team Divisions, injecting an extra level of strategy and camaraderie. Archers paired up with one teammate in their same shooting style to chase the coveted National Team Champion title and custom buckle awards. With over 100 teams participating across six divisions, the team element fostered a vibrant, supportive atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Compound and Recurve Open Team divisions upped the ante with prize money on the line, elevating the stakes for top-tier competitors.

A highlight of the weekend was Paige Pearce’s exceptional performance in the Professional Female Freestyle division. Pearce achieved the highest overall score among all participants, earning her the inaugural “GOAT” award—a new honor recognizing the top scorer across all divisions. Her remarkable consistency and precision throughout the tournament set a new benchmark for excellence.

But the event’s heart extends beyond the targets. Co-hosted by Break the Barriers, a Fresno-based nonprofit championing inclusion for individuals of all abilities, the championship supports a mission far greater than sport.

Since its founding in 1984, BTB has grown into the nation’s largest inclusive archery program, welcoming over 200 juniors, adults, and military veterans. The organization’s facility also serves as a Paralympic training center and runs specialized programs for Disabled American Veterans, making archery accessible and empowering for all.

The 2025 championship was more than a contest of skill—it was a celebration of resilience, unity, and the power of sport to break down barriers. Archers left not only with scores and awards, but also with new friendships, shared memories, and the deep satisfaction of contributing to a purpose-driven event.

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2 Donnie Thacker US-KY 968 $400.40

3 Allen Brunetta US-CA 966 $261.80

4 Jacob Miller US-MI 956 $177.10

5 Tate Morgan US-MT 951

6 Parker Baker US-KY 939

7 Randall Killpack US-CA 939

8 Logan Beckstrand US-AZ 938

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28 Johan Selor US-CA 912

29 Erik Hoaglund US-NV 910

30 Justin Shen US-CA 909 31 Thomas Goodwin US-CA 907

32 Tyce Grate US-NV 905

33 James Gomes US-CA 902

34 Robert Tehee US-CA 901

35 Ryan Nicoletti US-CA 898

36 Sean Perry US-CA 897

37 Thomas Wu US-CA 897

38 Keith Huebner US-CA 893

39 Donald Cardoza US-CA 890

40 Trent Dewell US-CA 889

41 Greg Peters US-CA 878

42 James Pecka US-NV 875

4 Heather Gore US-CA 917

5 Bella Otter US-CA 917

1 Timothy Gillingham US-UT 962 $420.00

2 Mark Rubio US-CA 948

3 Ben Hobbs US-CA 890

43 Jared Linscombe US-TX 868

44 John Apodaca US-CA 865

45 Scott Hunter US-FL 862

46 Greg Mouw US-CA 852

47 Matt Tippins US-CA 847

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7 Louis Sheedy US-OR 946

8 John Skarr US-CA 946

9 Joe Facio US-CA 942

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48 Henry Chen US-CA 832 49 Nicholas Peacock US-ID 818 50 Christopher Clavero US-CA 813 51 Jeremy Townsend US-OR 808 52 Jeremiah Stephens US-CA 806 53 Javier Gonzalez US-CA 804 54 Stephen Beilstein US-NV 794 55 Nick Heckman US-CA 772 56 Michael Bluhm US-CA 766 57 Patrick Hescox US-CA 724

58 Kevin Vieira US-CA 711 59 Dominic Armstrong-Huggins US-CA 667 60 Jason Jay US-CA 554

Paul Otten US-CA 521 62 Daniel Nguyen US-CA

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8 Robert M. Mankin US-CA 496

Master Senior Female Freestyle

1 Janette Reta US-CA 615

2 Kim Imrie US-CA 587

Young Adult Male Freestyle

1 Caleb Quiocho US-CA 996

2 Christopher Fong US-ID 984

3 Barrett McKee US-OR 947

4 Bryce Dillard US-NV 932

5 Wiley Long US-OR 930

6 Walter Hescox US-CA 920

7 Gauge Dewell US-CA 874

8 Wade Roelse US-CA 851

9 Thanmay Sarath US-CA 841

Young Adult Female Freestyle

1 Autum Decell US-NV 804

2 Averie Rodriguez US-NV 803

3 Yana Brytsko US-CA 801

4 Cassie Heckman US-CA 751

Youth Male Freestyle

1 RoqueLee Olivas US-NV 864

2 Brayden Huebner US-CA 863

3 Stephen Jr Wagner US-CA 834

4 Aiden Orozco US-CA 787

Youth Female Freestyle

1 Vanessa Smith US-NM 938

2 Emma Wilkin US-CA 872

3 Makenna Allen US-CA 783

Cub Male Freestyle

1 Jingran Xiao US-CA 950

2 Ty Hergenrader US-CA 758

Cub Female Freestyle

1 Keona Cotter US-CA 824

2 Elyse Beilstein US-NV 819

Male Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Jason Ham US-ID 936

2 Tim Blauwkamp US-CA 914

3 Jacobo Cordova US-NM 903

4 Tyler Davis US-CA 872

5 Michael Boyle US-CA 854

6 Jacob Ellsworth US-CA 847

7 Wesley Foor US-CA 846

8 Braiden VanRuiten US-CA 809

9 Adam Roelse US-CA 793

10 Joseph Silveira US-CA 790

11 Chris

5 Freddie Jennelle Jr US-CA 856 6 Jason Heath US-ID 851 7 Alfred Khachaturian US-CA 825 8 Bob Hartman US-CA 817

1 Rebekah Ham US-ID 890

5 Chelsea Farris US-CA 731

6 Alexandria Stoops US-ID 722

7 Aubrey Silveira

2 R Ruckman US-CA 670

3 Franklin Baker US-HI 625

4 Renal Earl US-CA 518

Silver Senior Male Traditional

1 Daniel Consolacion Jr. US-HI 635

2 David Lagow US-CA 613

3 Rob Chepernich US-CA 597

4 Brian Kowalski US-CA 588

5 Tere Johnson US-CA 552

6 Tim Barrett US-HI 527

7 David Dawson US-HI 425

8 James Quirke US-CA 284

Silver Senior Female Traditional

1 Danelle Pulawa US-HI 544

Master Senior Male Traditional

1 Gary Mccain US-CA 738

2 Corene Rigby US-CA 724

3 Timothy Hart US-CA 658

4 Roy Brokaw US-CA 628

5 Alan Azevedo US-CA 608

6 Steve Imrie US-CA 473

7 Peter Sieperda US-CA 326 Male Longbow

1 Josh Fint US-CA 749

2 Jeff Ruckman US-CA 746

3 Myke Santiago US-CA 728

4 William Eagleton US-CA 708

5 Bernhard Goesmann US-CA 704

6 Jerome Gizowski US-CA 703

7 Mark Sasser US-CA 678

8 Tom Daley US-CA 677

9 Ray Delossantos US-CA 675

10 John Spalliero US-NM 661

11 Erick Rivera US-CA 580

12 Joaquin Hernandez US-CA 486 Female Longbow

1 Kelly Eagleton US-CA 707

2 Debra Tuttle US-CA 495

3 Michelle Rivera US-CA 478

4 Karen Freed US-CA 473 Collegiate Male Freestyle

1 Justin Rodrigues US-CA 962 2 Dean Capellari US-CA 957

Lucas Stephens US-CA 798 Collegiate Female Freestyle 1 Abby Kelley US-CA 898 2 Hannah Dueck US-CA 866 Collegiate Female Bowhunter

Team Results

Rivera-Rivera

Michelle 478 670

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685 790

Andres 558 733

Stephen 652

Junior Team

Tyler 488 6 Gutierrez-Gutierrez GUTIERREZ Isabella 532 766 GUTIERREZ Lukas 692

7 Cross-Cross CROSS Emery 439 763

Elliot 752 8 Hamilton-Krueger

9 Cosentino-Hodge

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KELLEY Abby 898 980

Justin 962

Dean 957 957

3 Dueck-Dueck DUECK Hannah 866 866

4 Stephens-Stephens STEPHENS Lucas 798 798

There will be two shoot-off groups: Group A (1st–4th place teams) and Group B (5th–8th place teams). Prizes for each group will be announced before the competition, with only one prize awarded per group. Group B will shoot for the runner-up prize, and Group A for the grand prize. In each group, the highest-ranked team chooses their shooting position; the rest draw for order. Each team member shoots one arrow, and the team with the arrow closest to the center of the 12-ring wins. All final decisions will be made by a

Championship director.

NFAA marked 3d national championships

The 31st annual NFAA Marked 3D National Championships took place from May 2–4, 2025, in partnership with the Straight Arrow Bowhunters and Western Classic Trail Shoot in Redding, California. Known as the world’s largest marked 3D archery competition, the Western Classic draws a global field of archers eager to take on one of the sport’s most iconic events. NFAA members also had the opportunity to compete for the prestigious national title and the coveted signature belt buckle award.

Over the course of three days, 1,356 archers participated in the Western Classic, with over 800 NFAA members entering the national championship. Competitors shot two arrows each at 70 targets across rugged terrain that pushed the limits of their endurance, precision, and equipment. The course featured distances ranging from 101 yards at the legendary Big Foot target to a mere 3 yards at the Flies, with the distinctive orange bonus 11-ring adding another layer of strategic depth. Weather conditions added to the challenge, with hot temperatures on the first two days and gusty winds on the final day making each shot count right up to the finish.

Standout performances included Caleb Quiocho, who dominated the Young Adult Male Freestyle division with an incredible 1532, the highest amateur score of the event that also would have placed him in the top 10 in the Pro Men’s division. Paige Pearce secured her unprecedented 10th title in the Pro Women’s division with a 1530, displaying remarkable grit by finishing on top despite a severe knee injury early on day one. The Pro Men’s division saw Stephan Hansen claim outright victory with a commanding 1538.

For many archers, the Western Classic Trail Shoot and NFAA Marked 3D National Championships is more than just a tournament—it’s a bucket list event that blends competition with community in a way few others can match. Whether it’s the thrill of facing legendary targets like Big Foot or the Elk Herd, the satisfaction of executing a perfect shot on a deceptively difficult short-range animal, or simply walking the course with a group of friends, the experience is as much about the atmosphere and camaraderie as it is about the scores. The mix of elite-level challenge, iconic terrain, and a welcoming, high-energy environment makes this event a must-attend every year for archery enthusiasts from around the world.

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2 Allison Monroe US-OR 1416

3 Jeannette Riggs US-ID 1367

4 Angie Erickson US-OR 1365

5 Stephanie Breedlove US-WA 1340

6 Timbre Beck US-CA 1136

Silver Senior Male Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Mike Palmer US-WA 1499

2 Chris Jones US-CA 1479

3 George Merjano US-CA 1468

4 Ed Fuller US-NV 1463

5 Scott Wilson US-CA 1452

6 Mark Hanson US-AZ 1451

7 Marvin Riggs US-ID 1444

8 Scott Willis US-CA 1442

9 Bruce Corbett US-NV 1438

10 Michael Abramovich US-CA 1430

11 Steven Adam US-CA 1405

12 Gerry Tadina US-CA 1384

13 Freddy Echaves US-CA 1381

14 Leon Wager US-CA 1317

15 Jody Wheeler US-OR 1258 Silver Senior Female Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Kathlene Pradere US-WA 1383

2 Nancy Corbett US-NV 1373

3 Jenny Fagan US-OR 1129 Master Senior Male Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Michael Witmer US-NV 1393

2 Ed Terribilini US-CA 1381

3 Mike Willis US-CA 1338

4 Thomas Smith US-UT 1266

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5 Joseph Cusimano US-CA 1256

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Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Chanel Forseth US-CA 1309

2 Siera Mann US-CA 1238

3 Aria Beck-Wines US-CA 1026 Youth Male Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Tristen Scheidt US-OR 1442

2 Shan Ahmed US-CA 1274

3 Connor Ohlsen US-CA 1233

4 Blake Ohlsen US-CA 1224

5 Waylon Morelock US-CA 1159

6 Cameron Andrew US-OR 735 Youth Female Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Josie Sanchez Romero US-OR 1354

2 Quinn Boyle US-CA 1273

3 Sydney Boone US-OR 1234

4 Lillian Anderson US-WA 1209

5 Peyton King US-OR 1198

Cub Male Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Emmett Charbonneau US-WA 1447

2 Rory Boyle US-CA 1279

Cub Female Bowhunter Freestyle

1 Avery Mendenhall US-IA 1438

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| Field

National Leagues: indoor | Target

The 2025 National League delivered a full season of high-level competition across both indoor and outdoor disciplines, bringing national-caliber archery to local ranges around the world. Beginning in January and continuing through September, NFAA members were eager to take advantage of the League’s flexible, shoot-from-anywhere format.

The National Indoor League kicked off the season, running from January 12 through March 23. Nearly 300 archers competed at 71 host ranges worldwide, shooting NFAA 300 rounds during the first five weeks to prepare for the NFAA Indoor National Championships before transitioning to Vegas rounds as they geared up for The Vegas Shoot. For final standings, each competitor’s top four scores from both the NFAA and Vegas sessions were counted.

As Diane Liedl, a giveaway winner, shared: “Joining NFAA’s 10-week indoor tournament as a complete beginner felt intimidating at first, but the welcoming environment quickly gave me the confidence to dive in. What makes NFAA special is how it turns newcomers into passionate archers, and by the end of those 10 weeks I was completely hooked. The tournament didn’t just sharpen my skills, it sparked a genuine love for competition that keeps me excited for every chance to shoot.”

As spring turned to summer, the momentum continued with the National Outdoor Field League (May 12 – July 20) and the National Outdoor Target League (July 14 –September 21). Both leagues allowed archers to submit scores from any archery range or NFAA tournament, creating a nationwide footprint of participation. Field League competitors submitted their best nine scores across an equal mix of Field, Hunter, and Animal Rounds, while Target League archers submitted their top four 900 Round scores and four Classic 600 Round scores, with the ability to swap out lower scores adding a strategic layer.

Across all leagues, recognition and rewards played a major role in athlete engagement. Division winners earned the exclusive National League belt buckle, while 2nd- and 3rd-place finishers received signature medals. Collegiate archers were eligible for additional $250 scholarship awards during the Indoor League, and all registrants were automatically entered into drawings for free entry to a 2025–26 NFAA sectional or national event. Clubs and shops also benefited, as NFAA-chartered and range-certified hosts received lucrative registration rebates.

The National Leagues offered a year-round path that kept archers engaged with flexible, shoot-from-anywhere formats that welcomed newcomers, supported collegiate athletes, and challenged veterans. The 2025 season proved archery thrives when it’s accessible, inclusive, and community-driven.

national indoor league

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National Target League

2025 sectional travel scholarship

The NFAA in partnership with the NFAA Foundation, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Sectional Travel Scholarships! This annual scholarship offers a special opportunity for young archers to pursue their passion and participate in events across the nation. One male and one female archer from each NFAA Section were selected to receive a $500 travel award and a complimentary junior entry fee to an eligible NFAA or NFAA Foundation event. This stipend may be used to assist with travel-related expenses such as transportation, lodging, or meals while attending an eligible event.

The NFAA proudly congratulates the following student archers from each section as this year’s scholarship recipients:

Northwest Section Recipients

• Male: Kai Suzumura - Eugene, OR

• Female: Haley Fieldstad - Meridian, ID

Midwest Section Recipients

• Male: Wyatt Wiedenmeyer Moorhead, MN

• Female: Alina Cornick - Burlington, IA

Great Lakes Section Recipients

• Male: Carter Conlon - Plover, WI

• Female: Madeline Pals - Freeport, IL

Mid-Atlantic Section Recipients

• Male: Elliot Moreck - Meshoppen, PA

• Female: Evelyn Wassall - Runnemede, NJ

Southern Section Recipients

• Male: Asher Weittenhiller - McKinney, TX

• Female: Alana Ortiz-Venegas - Borne, TX

Southwest Section Recipients

• Male: Anirudhkalyan Pinjala - Draper, UT

• Female: Elizaveta Kravchuk - San Jose, CA

New England Section Recipient

• Female: Miranda Meighen - Bozrah, CT

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants needed to be between the ages of 8 and 17 as of January 1, 2026, have participated in NFAA State and/or Sectional Championship events in 2025, and hold a valid NFAA membership. Each submitted a 200–500 word essay describing which 2026 NFAA or NFAA Foundation event they hoped to attend and how the scholarship would support their archery goals. They also provided a list of the 2025 archery events they competed in, highlighting their dedication, skill development, and love for the sport.

Through this initiative, the NFAA and NFAA Foundation aim to inspire young archers to continue competing, refine their skills, and proudly represent their local clubs and sections on a national level.

WE EXTEND OUR CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL APPLICANTS FOR THEIR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION To THE SPORT OF ARCHERY!

2025 nfaa pro divsion scholarship recipients

The 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.”

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.

Gracen Fletcher Boonville, Indiana

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.

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.

Gracen’s Personal Statement:

My archery journey began when my dad and brother first introduced me to a bow and arrow at the age of nine. Ever since that first shot, I have been fascinated with the sport of archery. Over the course of nine years, I acquired valuable skills and learned important lessons that not only apply to archery but also to any endeavor worth pursuing. Archery gives me the opportunity to travel, meet individuals from all over the world, and develop friendships that will last a lifetime. My dedication and commitment to archery earned me numerous national titles, as well as being named the 2025 Vegas champion. In addition to archery, I am actively involved in serving the community through nonprofits and my local church. As I pursue an online degree in accounting through Cedarville University, I will continue honing my archery skills by competing professionally. My vision is to use archery as a platform to inspire and encourage shooters of all ages to reach their potential as a shooter and person.

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 multi-time 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.

Sebastien’s Personal Statement:

Fortunately, I have been blessed to have people guide me when I first started doing archery, and I believe in paying it forward. As an archer and a coach, I always want to give back to the archery community. Being able to assist athletes and make lifelong friendships with other archers is what motivates me the most. I feel that we are all connected once we have a common ground.

As a high performance archer for over a decade, I have strong work ethics that I have applied in both my academics and archery. Additionally, I’m the type of person who focuses on finishing a project efficiently whilst going beyond the criteria. I thrive for excellency in anything I am committed to. However, I’ve had my ups and downs like any athlete would experience during their athletic career. In the past few years, I have been more open to sharing about my mental health as it has been affecting my performance in my athletic and personal life. Although I am not very expressive and prefer to fight my mental battles on my own, I do try my hardest to share them with my coaches and parents.

After competing in archery for over a decade, I never thought that I would be facing the possibility of not having archery in my life during college. I was also facing the possibility of losing the sport because I first wanted to go for a degree in architecture; architecture has such a demanding and regulated curriculum, and as a result, it was very difficult to find colleges where I could pursue both my education and archery. During this time, making a decision about my future degree and college was extremely stressful. Once I found a program and a college that allowed me to do both, everything changed. It was a huge relief to have found that right environment at Mount Marty University, especially being at the NFAA Archery center under Coach Aida Roman’s supervision.

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. We were pleased to welcome numerous first-time field archers to the tournament this year, many of whom praised the supportive environment and welcoming community. Their participation brought fresh energy to the event and will help introduce more archers to the sport as they share their experience. Several newcomers noted that the beautiful Mechanicsburg course offered both a challenge and an unforgettable introduction to the discipline.

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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USA - MT 1808 129

6 Benton Christensen USA - ID 1791 117

7 Danny Minnick USA - VA 1785 119

8 Tim Audus USA - SC 1781 131

9 John Wheeler USA - WV 1733 94 10 Frank Kirtley USA - VA 1733 92 11 Jeffrey Human USA

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7 Johnny Sowders USA - TN 1578 49

8 Tom Coblentz USA - MD 1575 61

9 Ronald West USA - MD 1570 56 10 Chris Comeaux USA - LA 1570 51 11 Dean Stebner USA - OH 1570 42 12 Walter Smith USA - AZ 1567 48

13 Neil Newkirk USA - NY 1556 54 14

Frame USA - VA 1527 31 15 Randall Smith USA - MO 1204 21 16 John Rader USA - TN 1083 10

17 Kevin Jones USA - PA 1076 15

18 Tom Kennedy USA - PA 501 24

1 Christopher Fong USA - ID 1672 116

2 Jonathan Norris USA - VA 1466 28

1 Mackenzie Shull USA - VA 1657 108

2 Lilly Sweitzer USA - PA 1624 77

3 Paige Gray USA - PA 1598 75

4 Haley Fieldstad USA -

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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 First Dakota Classic scores on the following pages are from the qualifying rounds. The final rankings are based on the elimination round.

First Dakota Classic

Championship Compound Open

1 James Lutz US-SD 590 49 $2,000.00

2 Bodie Turner US-MT 599 39 $900.00

3 Kyle Douglas US-UT 598 37 $650.00

4 Stephan Hansen US-SD 598 41 $400.00

5 Christopher Perkins CAN 598 43 $350.00

5 Jacob Pettit US-CO 597 40 $300.00

7 Curtis Broadnax US-GA 596 39 $250.00

7 Roland Deason US-IA 575 36 $200.00

9 Wade McClanahan US-SD 588 30

9 Levi Reitsma US-MI 599 45

9 Taylor Spoolstra US-OK 598 42

9 Jacob McArthur US-SD 596 29

9 Robert Householder US-AL 597 39

9 Ace Coleman US-TN 594 30

9 Grady Kane US-SD 591 28

9 Nick Kappers US-MN 596 36

17 Jase Boils US-KY 590 32

17 Teagan Herold US-CO 591 30

17 Dan Jasa US-OH 590 35

17 Tate Morgan US-MT 593 35 Championship Compound Female

1 Sharon Wallace US-SC 584 29 $500.00

2 Kaylee Geist US-CO 589 24 $300.00

3 Paige Pearce US-CA 593 25 $200.00

4 Leann Drake US-MO 593 21

5 Hatley Hetletved US-ND 572 15 Championship Compound Senior

1 Timothy Gillingham US-UT 595 27 $1,000.00

2 Randy Morocco US-OH 592 31 $650.00

3 Lynn Hoch US-IA 585 20 $450.00

4 Darren Collins US-KY 589 23 $300.00

5 Kenneth Brunko US-AZ 584 24

6 Deshante’ Coleman US-FL 570 15

7 Jason Fevella US-HI 571 10

8 Ru Barlow GBR 558 12

9 Daric Stalder US-NE 583 20

9 Steven Jones US-TX 583 23

9 Troy White US-NE 558 10

9 Keith Trail US-WV 574 18 Championship Compound Senior Female

1 Ellen Cameron-Rice US-MO 571 18 $400.00

2 Julie Kaufman US-MI 533 3 Championship Compound Young Adult

1 Christopher Fong US-ID 593 26 $400.00

2 Chase Crotty US-WI 593 33 $250.00

3 Russell Walberg US-SD 588 20

4 Evan Littau US-SD 543 5 5 Isabella Cull US-MO 558 9 Championship Compound Recurve Female 1 Isabelle Kelsen US-IA 351 3 $200.00 Championship Recurve Barebow Open

2 Craig Richardson

4 Makenzie Vogel US-ND 568 13

5 Elisabeth Lampe US-IA 535 3

6 Zoe Peterson US-ND 558 6

6 Tirzah Herold US-CO 550 8

8 Sophia Adams US-MN 563 13

9 Haley Fieldstad US-ID 546 7

9 Marla Rupar US-MN 304 3

9 Kaylee Magandy US-ND 505 7

Compound Youth Male

1 Thomas Parent US-WI 586 27

2 Mason Loofboro US-WI 589 27

3 Orion Vicenti US-MN 581 15

4 Liam Steinmeyer US-NE 570 13

5 Wyatt Wiedenmeyer US-MN 565 17

6 Tucker Craig US-CO 571 18

7 Carter Salmon US-SD 564 16

Compound Youth Female

1 Elise Schleifer US-TX 578 13

2 Addison Schleifer US-TX 577 19

3 Sloan Stoltz US-ND 569 14

4 Julia Peterson US-IA 543 7

5 Brooklyn Hayes US-KS 558 9

6 Ryley Adams US-CO 504 3

Compound Cub Male

1 Laganjot Singh Sandhu CAN 593 31

2 Owen Peterson US-ND 589 32

3 Wanli Chen US-MN 590 36

4 Jace Golden US-WI 586 30

5 Gage Stoltz US-ND 587 33

6 Trypp Stoltz US-ND 563 18

7 Julian Walker US-WI 494 4

Compound Cub Female

1 Baylee Kalscheuer US-SD 589 34

2 Ember Frigon CAN 581 22

3 Lucille Dillow US-WI 562 18

4 Aria Walker US-WI 476 6

Bowhunter Flight 1

1 Paul Parsons US-MN 571 14 $444.00

2 Ziegfried Kotze US-MN 572 17 $266.00

3 Taylor Given US-MN 567 16 $177.00

4 Justin Clemens US-ND 564 14

5 David Frey US-SD 564 15

6 Marvin Riggs US-ID 567 16

Bowhunter Flight 2

1 Emily Brandt US-SD 552 11 $239.00

2 Tyler Groenewold US-SD 559 12 $143.00

3 Daniel Groenewold US-SD 519 3 $96.00

4 Izaiah Groenewold US-SD 548 8

5 Ryland Jacob US-ND 466 3

6 Elyse Bloom US-SD 439 1 Bowhunter Youth Male

1 Jack Lewton US-NE 557 8

2 Tucker Green US-NE 546 9

Bowhunter Youth Female

1 Rebecca Dillow US-WI 571 13

2 Jaiya Shepherd US-ND 518 8

3 Summer Olson US-SD 294 1

Bowhunter Cub Male

1 Charlie Watkins US-MN 573 20

2 Jeffrey Parent US-WI 497 9

3 Tyson Villmow US-WY 549 16

Recurve Flights

1 Sebastien Huynh US-FL 456 6 $210.00

2 Liz Sheridan US-CT 456 2

Recurve Young Adult Male

1 Kai Tyler US-NE 404 0

Recurve Young Adult Female

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5 Allan Asche US-IA 1365 18

6 Jozef Maka US-IL 1364 21

7 Russell Healy US-SD 1332 20

1 Michael Spence US-FL 1280 3

1 Martin Verheul US-MN 1438 39

2 Kelton Poindexter US-TX 1419 34

1 Shannon Steeley US-OK 1451 38

2 Shaylan Steeley US-OK 1430 41

1 Camdon Roker US-NE 1446 54

2 Michael Verheul US-MN 1291 13

1 Rebecca Dillow US-WI 1455 47

2 Jaiya Shepherd US-ND 1336 18

1 Dewey Rieck US-NE 1455 67

2 Charlie Watkins US-MN 1449 61

3 Tyson Villmow US-WY 1391 41

1 Allen Capp US-SD 1391 22

1 Leroy Capp US-SD 1252 10

1 Terry Witt US-IA 1330 23

2 William Heineke US-WY 1173 7 3 Oliver Austin US-FL 1166 11

Limited

1 Dave Hryn US-NY 1369 16

2 Joseph Pfannenstein US-MN 1308 10

Adult Male Freestyle Limited Recurve

1 Andrew Stinson US-MN 1257 8

2 Trent Withers US-SD 1111 5 Adult Female Freestyle Limited Recurve

1 Aida

2025 3-Star Shoot Off Champions

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 nailbiting 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

required events

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.

The Shooter of the Year Awards recognize outstanding performance across all NFAA divisions. The Professional Shooter of the Year honorees receive a featured magazine article along with cash payouts—$2,500 each for the Pro Male and Pro Female divisions, and $1,000 for the Pro Senior division. The Junior and Adult Amateur Shooter of the Year recipients are highlighted in a magazine article as well and receive a personalized plaque to commemorate their season-long achievements.

Pro senior: Timothy Gillingham

Do you have any pre-tournament 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 years 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.

Elevating Standards in Archery with the NFAA Judge Program

Launched in 2024, the NFAA Judge Certification Program opens the door for dedicated members to take an active role in the integrity and success of archery events. All NFAA members aged 18 and older are eligible to join the NFAA Judge Program to gain a deeper understanding of NFAA round formats, range set-ups, and event operations. The program is ideal for archers, coaches, family members, or anyone interested in learning more about tournaments and event management.

At its core, the program offers two certification levels:

Certified Judges are the entry level for officiating local, state, or sectional NFAA-sanctioned events. Judges learn the rules and tournament procedures that ensure events are fair, safe, and consistent. Certification is valid for three years and includes a pin or adhesive patch upon course completion.

National Judges officiate at major national events. This advanced level builds on foundational skills and represents the highest tier of expertise. Following course completion, candidates must also complete a shadowing assignment at a national event to gain hands-on experience alongside seasoned officials.

NFAA Judges join a respected network of officials across the country, gaining access to NFAA-branded gear, educational resources, and ongoing support, while developing leadership, communication, and decision-making skills that extend far beyond the archery range.

Congratulations to all the newly certified NFAA Judges in 2025! Your dedication to the sport and commitment to fair, safe, and expertly-run events strengthen the archery community at every level. We look forward to seeing the impact you’ll make in tournaments across the country.

New National Judges

Bill Lewis

Larry Parshen

Libby Roberts Snelling

Ernest Long

Josean feliciano

kathleen (kay) Rogers

Peter Graziano

Petro Ruocco

Shawn Harrigan

Jennifer Langley

Brad Kleine

Zach Raizen

New certified judges

Rick Stonebraker

Willis Clark

Scotty Segura

Greg Nickey

Bryan McNeely

Byron Burkhardt

Jack White

Chandler Shellhammer

David Krupski

Chriss Bowles

Chris Partezana

Sheila Tadlock

Jesse Carter

David Groff

Dacian Breazu

David Ireland

Marissa Scalzo

Sean Chan

Erik Bramble

Shannon Martin

Mary Mertz

Catherine Belzner

Bob Gattorna

Brian Geimer

Paola Arteaga

Ellen Cameron-Rice

JARED WESTFALL

Makanalani Thatcher

Russell Harrel

Kristi Wilson

Marc Krebs

James Wilson

Judy Clay

Alan Eagleton

Misty Jeanotte

Indoor Nationals REcords

Danielle

Danielle

Danielle

Bella Otter

Bella

Bella

Sawyer

Sawyer

Sawyer

Maddie Pals

Gracia

Gracia Husman

Gracia Husman

Ella

Ella

Craig

Craig

Craig

Mathias Fullerton

Bodie Turner

Outdoor national target REcords

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Indoor Sectionals + National Series

The 2025 NFAA Indoor Sectional Championships and National Series took place at ranges around the country from January through March. Archers first competed within their respective sections, vying for the title of Sectional Champion. But the competition didn’t stop there— scores from all sectional events were also combined to crown the very first NFAA Indoor National Series Champions in each division, adding an exciting new layer to the classic sectional format.

For the first time, the competition format was standardized to ensure consistency across all sections for the National Series. Archers completed two NFAA blue/white rounds, each consisting of 60 arrows. With a maximum score of 300 60X per round, both scores contributed to an archer’s final placement at the sectional level and overall national ranking. Specially designed National Series medals were awarded to the top finishers in each division, and $100 Scholarships were granted to the top winners in each collegiate category.

Participation was strong across the board, with 2,584 archers competing at 94 NFAA clubs and shops nationwide. Multiple sections saw a boost in attendance, most notably the Northwest section, which experienced a 35% increase over 2024.

Beyond the competition, archers appreciated the camaraderie and opportunity to prepare for future events in a friendly, competitive environment. A Southwest section archer shared, “The best part of the event was getting together with others to shoot and compare my progress to others around the country.” Another noted that it was a “fun shoot that provided practice in a tournament environment for upcoming tournaments.”

The Sectional Championships marked the end of the indoor season and ignited anticipation for the outdoor circuit, as archers set their sights on the upcoming Outdoor Sectionals and National Series, set to take place on field courses nationwide from May through June.

Indoor National series Ranking

1

1

1

2

1

3

1

1

3

2

1

3

2

1

2

1

1

2

2

2

3

2 Brad Gregory Southern 560 36 16

3 Michael Phillips Southeast 498 15 9

1 Earle IV Bateman Southern 575 45 17

2 Gilbert Wilson Sr Southeast 527 23 0

3 Dave Barnsdale Great Lakes 523 20 7 Barebow Silver Senior Female

1 Michelle Bateman Southern 517 21 12

1 Bradley Marshall Mid-Atlantic 544 28 18

3

2 Pat Norris Southwest 523 19 7

17 8

1

1 Drew Parker Southern 507 20 9

2 Emmett

3 Sidney Martin Southern 419 8 5

1 Medina Otajagic New England 543 26 7

2 Madison Castro Mid-Atlantic 486 17 9

3 Kinsey Buck Southern 420 6 3

1 Isaac Perez Southern 453 9 4

2 Titus Hescox Southwest 346 6 1

3 Justin Lin Southern 140 0 0

1 Sarah Keller Southwest 480 10 5

Merlino

431 3 0

2

1 Adhrit Pakhare Southern 552 30 20

2 Karthic Arun Mid-Atlantic 543 28 16

3 Santiago Perez Southern 469 11 3

Cub Female

1 Ellie Gamblin Southern 544 22 12

2 Landry Blakey Southern 526 21 9

3 Hadassah Kuchkovskiy Southwest 489 14 14

Barebow Recurve Adult Male

1 Robby Weissinger Midwest 577 49 25

2 Marcus Cooley Southwest 573 37 12

3 Nolan Encarnacion Southwest 573 33 17

Barebow Recurve Adult Female

1 Johana Czako Southern 551 22 9

2 Cindy Graham Mid-Atlantic 517 18 3

3 Melanie Duarte New England 516 19 11 Barebow Recurve Senior Male

1 Jeff Ogilvie Great Lakes 568 41 23

2 David Champagne Northwest 549 22 13

3 William Ezzell Great Lakes 539 30 15 Barebow Recurve Senior Female

1 Michelle O’Donnell Southeast 518 21 12

2 Carla Bray Southwest 479 15 9

3 Deb Dimatteo Southern 469 10 8 Barebow Recurve Silver Senior Male

1 John Rossi New England 542 23 8

2 William Laramie New England 531 17 6

3 Edward Kramer Great Lakes 529 21 10

1 Anna Hanson Southern 505 16 4

2 Shana Sattler Southern 497 16 11

Barebow Recurve Master Senior

2025 Outdoor sectionals by the numbers 15 Locations Host 372 total archers

60 total National series champions

Outdoor Sectionals + National Series

The NFAA concluded its 2025 Outdoor Sectionals, a series of Outdoor Field tournaments held from May 24 to June 29 that drew nearly 375 archers to 15 venues across the United States. Clubs from Maine to Montana and 13 states in between welcomed competitors for a premier showcase of skill and sportsmanship. Targets were laid out on roving courses, guiding archers through varied terrain and distances to test their adaptability and precision. Several sections saw increased participation compared to 2024, with the New England Section leading the way at over 300% growth. Overall, the 2025 Outdoor Sectionals achieved nearly 10% growth nationwide, a strong reminder that field archery continues to hold a special place in the hearts of archers across the country.

New for 2025, the competition introduced a standardized format nationwide, with every location featuring 14 targets each of NFAA Field, Hunter, and Animal rounds. This consistent structure ensured equitable competition for the coveted Outdoor National Series, where custom medals were awarded to the top three archers in each division. Scores were first finalized at the sectional level, then compiled nationally to determine each archer’s overall ranking within their age division and shooting style. The top-ranked archer in each division earned the prestigious title of NFAA Outdoor National Series Champion.

The Outdoor National Series event showcased strong performances across all divisions, with notable wins from Stephan Hansen in Pro Male Freestyle and Tim Wilson in Pro Senior Male Freestyle, each delivering consistent top scores across Field, Hunter, and Animal rounds. Midwest and Great Lakes archers dominated many categories, including standout Youth and Cub results led by athletes like Gage Stoltz and Sloan Stoltz. Competitive finishes were seen throughout the Adult and Senior divisions, where tight score spreads highlighted the depth of talent, particularly in the Adult Male Freestyle field. Traditional, Barebow Recurve, Bowhunter Freestyle, and Freestyle Limited Recurve divisions also featured clear leaders who posted commanding margins.

The NFAA extends its congratulations to all competitors and its sincere gratitude to the host clubs and volunteers whose efforts made this year’s events both memorable and competitive. With the National Field Championships in Mechanicsburg on the horizon, the Outdoor Sectionals and National Series served as the perfect warm-up to help sharpen skills, build momentum, and set the stage for an exciting national showdown.

outdoor National series Ranking

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5

6

7

8

1

2

1

1

2

3

4

5

2

3

1

6

5

7

8

6

4

5

3

1

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

1

2

3

20

21

22

1

4

5

6

7

2

3

1

5

4

2

3

1

1

3

1

2

1

3

1

2

2

2

1

1

Indoor Sectionals

1

1

2

3

2

1

1

1

Northwest Section

Alaska Cassandra Arend 907-306-8888 cassy52@gmail.com

Oregon

Wolter 578 57

2 Leroy Dukes 547 33

Freestyle Young Adult Male

1 Kameron Kackalecik 600 113

2 Christopher Fong 599 116

3 Cody Stidhem 599 102

Freestyle Young Adult Female

1 Callah Kenney 600 97

2 Anna Calahan 597 96

3 Kenzie Andrew 596 80

Freestyle Youth Male

1 Grant Hammons 600 118

2 Dayne Shuler 600 102

3 Barrett McKee 596 93

Freestyle Youth Female

1 Lilly Senivongs 596 73

2 Sophia Porter 574 62

3 Kendyll Kackalecik 564 34

Freestyle Cub Male

1 Rishaan Ramaiya 594 64

2 Kannon Kakalecik 589 58

3 Caleb Lee 136 3

Freestyle Cub Female

1 Avery Busch 572 49

2 Abigail Shuler 545 28

Freestyle Limited Adult Male

1 Greg Misner 538 30

Freestyle Limited

State Directors

Washington Matt Anderson 360-929-4330 NFAA@washingtonarchery.net

Wyoming James Metzner 715-456-8570 jamesmetzner2020@gmail.com

Montana Justin Sabol 406-581-7347 Bridgercanyontaxidermy@gmail.com

outoor Sectionals

Midwest Section

Indoor Sectionals

North Dakota Lee Hetletved 701-226-2775 leehetletved@gmail.com Missouri

outoor Sectionals

1

Indoor Sectionals

outoor Sectionals

New England Section

Indoor Sectionals

State Directors

New

1

Indoor Sectionals

Rosal 600 114

2 Wesley Robinson 600 103 3 Bryce Dillard 600 98

Freestyle Young Adult Female 1 Khloe Markle 600 108

2 Melissa Canavan 596 75

Claire Ortega 594 76 Freestyle Youth Male

1 Boyan Hung 594 82 2 Uriah James Overbay 589

1

2

outoor Sectionals

Section

Indoor Sectionals

1

Southeast Section

State Directors

Florida Mike Spence 734-649-6375 grysbok1mike@aol.com

North Carolina Greg White 770-335-3213 gregwhitearchery@gmail.com

Alabama Michael Stone 334-796-5583 mstone4756@gmail.com scan

Indoor Sectionals

2

3

1

Georgia Richard Diederich 912-667-4534 red1691@netzero.com

Kentucky Glen Baxter 502-445-5941 glen.baxter@quala.us.com

South Carolina Hans Klar 608-354-5883 hwklar@gmail.com

Tennessee Ricky Weaver 731-608-7230 rweavertaa@yahoo.com

outoor Sectionals

2025 Board of director Meeting

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-toback 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.

Collegiate Cup invitational

The inaugural 2025 Collegiate Cup Invitational brought student-athletes from across the country together in a four-week virtual format. Running from October 13 to November 15, the event allowed teams to compete remotely while maintaining a standardized structure, scoring system, and a virtual head-to-head finale. The top two teams earned personalized pennants for their clubs, and the first-place team received a $500 scholarship to support program expenses. Five collegiate teams from across the nation participated in the event, including William Carey University (MS), Muskingum University (OH), Pennsylvania College of Technology (PA), Michigan State University (MI), and Mount Marty University (SD).

The qualification session unfolded in two phases. Archers completed two NFAA 300 Rounds during the first two weeks and two Vegas 300 Rounds in weeks three and four. Though each school could register an unlimited number of archers, the team total only counted scores from the top archer in each of the four disciplines: Freestyle, Freestyle Limited Recurve, Bowhunter Freestyle, and Barebow Recurve. This format emphasized team depth across equipment styles, with only the top two teams advancing to the virtual finals.

The finals were the tournament’s highlight, run in a head-to-head format on the Vegas 3-spot target. Each team selected one archer from each discipline to represent their school in the all-new virtual team round. BBR and FSLR archers shot ends one and three, while FS and BHFS athletes took ends two and four. With a two-minute clock per end and a maximum of 240 points, every arrow mattered.

The championship match between William Carey University and Muskingum University delivered a high-energy showdown. William Carey University claimed the Collegiate Cup title with a decisive 223–205 victory, earning the championship pennant and $500 team scholarship.

Members of the winning team shared their experience. Emmie Purcell gushed, “The Collegiate Cup was a great virtual experience! It showcased what was possible in virtual tournaments for archers who either cannot travel or who want something fun in between in-person tournaments. It was a fun way to jumpstart

the indoor season and practice shoot-offs. I would definitely participate again!” Elias Reyes continued, “I really enjoyed being part of this Collegiate Cup. It gave me the opportunity to feel that tournament rush while shooting in my University! It was also very fun to shoot alongside my teammates even though we were all from different bow classes.”

Beyond the scores, the 2025 Collegiate Cup Invitational showcased the value of hybrid and virtual formats, allowing teams to compete nationally from their home ranges. The multi-week structure promoted consistency, discipline, and team cohesion, while the finals added the excitement of a true championship. As the event continues to evolve, the NFAA is expanding participation, supporting collegiate clubs, and refining competition formats, demonstrating how flexible and competitive structures help programs grow and athletes excel.

team rankings

SCAN TO WATCH THE FINAL SHOOT OFF

SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF ARCHERY: DONATE TO THE NFAA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND

At the NFAA Foundation, we are dedicated to empowering young archers to excel in both archery and academics. Through our 501(c)(3) public charitable organization, we award scholarships annually to encourage and support the next generation of archery enthusiasts and scholars.

Your donation can make a lasting impact. By contributing to the NFAA Foundation Scholarship Fund, you are helping young archers reach their potential, both on and off the range. These scholarships provide critical support, enabling students to balance their passion for archery with academic achievement.

Ways to Donate

• General Scholarship Fund: Your donation supports the overall growth of the scholarship program, creating more opportunities for young athletes.

• Named Scholarships: Honor a loved one, yourself, or your business by establishing a named scholarship. This unique opportunity allows you to leave a lasting legacy in the archery community.

• Travel Scholarships: Help young archers attend larger events and competitions they might not otherwise experience. Travel scholarships open doors to exciting new opportunities, fostering their growth and love for the sport.

We are also open to creating new scholarships tailored to specific goals or needs. Whether you want to recognize excellence in a particular archery discipline, support underrepresented groups, or invest in community archery programs, we’d love to partner with you to expand this program.

How to Donate

Visit our donation page (QR code) to make your contribution today. Every dollar you donate helps inspire and support young archers, ensuring the future of this incredible sport. Together, we can make a difference. Let’s grow the NFAA Foundation Scholarship Program and give young archers the opportunities they deserve!

Bidding on History: The 2025

NFAA Banner Auction

The NFAA launched its first-ever massive Online Banner Auction in 2025, giving archers, clubs, and shops the rare chance to own a true piece of archery history. Over 1,000 retired event banners, including those from storied events like The Vegas Shoot, Indoor Nationals, World Archery Championships, and dozens of other major tournaments, were offered to the public in a one-of-a-kind scholarship fundraiser. These banners have hung above some of the most iconic moments in NFAA history: world records, championship titles, unforgettable shoot-offs, and countless memories made by archers from around the world. They were ready for a new home after years of coloring the halls of our events, and archers were eager to claim them.

The response exceeded all expectations. More than 200 banners were sold to clubs, pro shops, collectors, alumni archers, and fans across the United States, with many even traveling overseas to new owners. Today, many of these banners hang proudly in home ranges and archery shops, serving as symbols of community, tradition, and the memories created beneath them.

Even better, every bid made a meaningful impact. The auction raised over $4,000 to benefit the NFAA Foundation Scholarship Fund, with the funds going directly toward helping student archers pursue higher education while staying connected to the sport they love. It was a powerful way to honor the past while investing in the next generation.

The 2025 Banner Auction marked an exciting new chapter for the NFAA, preserving our history, supporting our future, and giving archers everywhere a chance to bring a piece of the story home. Stay tuned—with the momentum of this year’s success, it may be just the beginning of a new annual tradition.

decades of dedication: 2025 service pin stories

benton christensen

nfaa member for 30 years

I didn’t get involved in archery until I was about 23 years old. I started bow hunting, and a neighbor saw me shooting in my yard and invited me to join the local club. I shot a few local 3D tournaments, and soon started shooting circles as well. As my 2 little girls grew, they showed amazing archery talent, and I was soon chasing them to archery tournaments all over the world. I would shoot many of the tournaments along with my girls, and had a little success as well, even making the U.S.A.T. one year. Of course, we were, and still are, avid bow hunters. I started shooting the Vegas tournament in 1993, and have only missed a couple of years since. I was lucky enough to shoot a 900 and make the shoot off once in the championship division, and I have finished 2nd two times in the senior championship division. I shot the NFAA indoor a couple times as an adult amateur, but didn’t start shooting as a pro until I turned 50 and won a silver bowl in 2017. I have tried to shoot as many of the big indoor tournaments as I can, and have been very fortunate to win a few, including Lancaster, Iowa Pro Am, and the Dakota Classic. I have had a couple of good years in Redding, with a couple of 1st place team finishes, and a 1st place individual finish in 2024. And did I mention that my family really likes to bow hunt?

william millican

nfaa member for 35 years

I started bowhunting in 1972 and it was evident early on archery was the sport for me.

At the time, internet was not available plus there were only a few archery pro shops to visit and learn, so I traveled in search of help. That search led me to Buckskin Archery Shop in my home town. Not only did they have the answers, but the owners allowed me to work part time. This is where my education began in 1975 when my first local archery club was being started, “Cobb County Archery” in Kennesaw, Georgia. Several of the members were already NFAA members which helped me to understand tournament archery, so I joined the NFAA in 1975, I then learned all of the programs that the NFAA has to offer, NFAA Bowhunter and the NFAA competitions (Field, Target and Indoor).

After winning a couple of local tournaments and placing in other sectional events, I was hooked for life and updated my member status to NFAA Life Time Membership in 1984.

I became the Range Captain for our new club when our county donated us 11 flood plain acres for our range which is still active

today. I started to plan and start building our own 28 target field range which would take us more than a year to complete. Our club was benefiting in that on some weekends we had more than 300 archers competing at our local tournaments

In 1999, I retired from AT&T with 35 years employment. Later that year I went to work for the Atlanta “Bass Pro Shop” to co-manage their archery department until 2014, when Cabela’s opened a new store so I moved to become their archery technician.

To date, I was able to win more than 45 State Tournaments, 4 Sectional, and 2 National tournaments breaking and setting new state records along the way. I also became an Instructor and Tournament Judge for both NFAA and USA Archery.

Other archery organizations that I have been involved are:

Pope & Young Club, USA Archery, Kennesaw Archery Club, Georgia Bowhunters Archery Assoc, Florida Archery Life Member, Easton Newberry Archery Center Newbery Florida, National senior Games and now Wisconsin Archery.

While participating in the NFAA Bow Hunter program I was able to harvest many big game animals to include:

Rocky Mtn Bull Elk, Baren Ground Caribou, Whitetail Deer, Mule Deer, Pronghorn Antelope, Black Bear, Alligator, Feran Hogs, Javelina, Long Nose Gar, Carp and many small game animals that are all included in the NFAA Bowhunter Program.

I am very thankful to be associated with the NFAA and hope to have many more years.

Ronnie St. Clair

nfaa member for 40 years

I started archery as a senior in High School in Morton, Washington in 1972. My driver’s education teacher sold me his 72-inch 45lb Bear recurve and eight arrows. During the archery program for Physical Education, I had the highest scores because when I hit the target my arrows stayed in for scores.

After graduation I moved to New Mexico for college and joined an archery club in Deming, New Mexico. A friend and I went over to Arizona for the Outdoor Southwest Sectional and there were hundreds of archers, which was one of the most exciting things to see. We spent our spare time trying to straighten out our aluminum arrows.

I continued to shoot for the rest of my life. My first National Tournament was at Darrington when they held the IFAA World at the same time. I have since shot State, Sectionals and National events every time that I could. Shot in the IFAA World in Driesch, Germany, IFAA European Championships in Bury St Edmonds, England, NFAA Nationals in Blue Springs, Detroit Lakes, New York, Wausau, Mechanicsburg, and Yankton. My primary shooting style has been Barebow throughout the years and archery has been a major part of my life.

bob borges

nfaa member for 50 years

Bob Borges has dedicated nearly five decades to the archery world, building a distinguished career as a competitor, instructor, official, and leader within multiple major archery organizations. With 50 years of continuous involvement in the sport, he has served as a Shooter, NFAA Official, USA Archery official, and a member of the Board of Directors for the NFAA.

Since March 1975, Bob has been active as an Archery Leader, Bowhunter, Bowhunting Instructor, and competitive archer. A lifelong NFAA member, he has held several key leadership roles, including NFAA New Mexico State Director from 1993 to 1999 and again from 2004 to 2007, as well as NFAA Southwest Councilman from 2007 to 2017. He earned his certification as a Bowhunter Instructor in 1978. His long-standing commitment to the sport was formally recognized in 2002 when he was inducted into the New Mexico Bowhunters Association Hall of Fame and then in 2024 he was inducted into the Barebow Fraternity Hall of Fame.

An avid hunter, Bob has pursued Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Elk, Javalina, Antelope, and a wide variety of small-game species. His passion for archery extends deeply into competitive shooting, where he has excelled across multiple styles, including Barebow, Freestyle Limited, and Bowhunter divisions.

Bob’s competitive résumé includes notable performances at the Vegas Shoot, one of the largest and most prestigious tournaments in the world. His placements include 13th in 2022, 17th in 2020, 34th in 2019, 22nd in 2018, 14th in 2017, 16th in 2016, 11th in 2015, and 13th in 2014, alongside a remarkable 3rd-place finish in 2000. From 2013 and earlier, he consistently ranked within the top five of the Championship Barebow Division.

His achievements also include six National Championships—one in 3-D, one in U.S. Archery Indoor, one in Redding, NFAA Field in 2021 and two National Senior Olympic titles earned in 2019 and 2022. Over the course of his career, he has secured 74 State Championships across various formats, 17 NFAA Sectional titles, and set 29 New Mexico State Records across three different styles.

Bob has represented his state and the sport at a wide range of major events, including six NFAA Outdoor National Tournaments, two NFAA Indoor National Tournaments, 20 Vegas Shoots, and numerous statelevel competitions in both New Mexico and Texas. His participation in the New Mexico Bowhunters Association spanned from 1976 to 2017, and he has been an active member of the Texas Field Archery Association since 2017.

With a long history of leadership, instruction, and high-level competition, Bob Borges stands as a dedicated ambassador of archery and bowhunting, embodying passion, consistency, and commitment throughout his lifelong involvement in the sport.

Mike Maher

nfaa member for 50 years

I have experienced two different eras in Archery—before Compounds and after! As a young boy, I started making my own bows and arrows out of tree branches. My first “real” bow was a Christmas gift from my parents when I was 13. It was a Ben Pearson, green fiberglass bow, that I still have today. One day, my father stopped by me as I was shooting at a hay bale in the yard on our farm. He asked to shoot the bow and as I handed the magical object to him, he got the “bug” also! A few days later, he purchased all the

scores, tournament info and more at nfaausa.com

archery equipment that a local hardware store had, that was going out of business.

As we formed new friendships with the members, the men discussed bowhunting. A couple of the fellows were accomplished bowhunters. It was 1969 and my dad decided we too would bow hunt, and a trip to an archery shop ended with my Dad, brother and I leaving with new laminated recurve hunting bows. In 1970, dad and I got archery deer tags and on a very cold late December day, we both got our first archery deer.

In March of 1972, our local club held a tournament. At 17, I entered in the “Heavy Tackle” division as my hunting bow qualified as over “45-pound” draw weight. I always competed as an “instinctive” or Barebow Bowhunter, but in those years it was called Heavy Tackle. I defeated the men shooting that day and it was discovered that I was only 17, so they moved me to the barebow youth class and declared me a winner there instead.

After my 1972 shoot, I started shooting at nearby tournaments. In 1975, I purchased my first Allen Compound bow, which had a center-shot window, was much faster, and helped shrink the “gap” between my point and the bullseye. My scores started to climb. In 1976, I joined the NFAA, participated in my first Indoor State Championship, and won my class. I studied hard with text books I could find and especially used Fred Bear’s Archer’s Bible to analyze my shot patterns.

In 1979, I shot in my first Outdoor Nationals in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. I met the legend Fred Bear, who autographed my scorecard. Later, at Indoor Nationals, I met and had a long conversation with Tom Jennings, designer of most of the bows I shot in competition. I transferred from South Dakota to Wisconsin in 1987 to manage a facility and expanded into new shooting venues, winning many local tournaments. One weekend, I recall shooting six different indoor rounds.

After returning to South Dakota in the early 1990s, I continued to shoot leagues and got involved in a new shooting sports facility in Brookings, SD. As an Archery board member with the Outdoor Adventure Center, I participated in a meeting with NFAA President Bruce Cull, Easton Foundation Outreach Director Doug Engh, and Eric Tollefson as we looked for assistance for NASP, 4-H, Scouting, and SDSU with this new facility. It became the main hub for shooting sports in Brookings. My role was Archery Education Director, and between that and City Park & Rec training, I had trained at least 500 first-time shooters.

During my years as an NFAA member, I have competed at all levels, participated in the Art Young and Bowhunter programs, Mail Match, and created the design for the South Dakota Archers award medals. My dream of hand making a quality wood bow is still a goal of mine.

I have not shot an archery round since the early 2000s and have not hunted since 2020. This time away has allowed me to look back on what has come to be my history within archery. I met many of the modern heroes, innovators and champions, and passed on my knowledge to those I trained. I have enjoyed watching new archers shoot their first bullseye or the balloon I set out for them. I see my time in archery as a completed work—something I can step back and look at and still feel how it felt to release an arrow and hit a target exactly where I was focused. It has been an amazing journey.

2026 Outdoor archery season set to take over Yankton

The NFAAis gearing up for an action-packed summer of outdoor archery in 2026. The NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota, will play host to a series of prestigious national and international events, drawing archers from across the country and around the globe. The schedule includes competitions for all types of outdoor archery, from 3D and field to target, offering something for everyone.

Mark Your Calendars for These Key Dates:

June 3–6, 2026

USA Archery Field Nationals | USA Archery 3D Nationals | U.S. Team Trials

The nation’s top archers will compete for national titles and a chance to represent Team USA on the world stage.

July 24–26, 2026

NFAA Outdoor National Field Championships

This 3-day competition will crown the top field archers in the United States.

July 27–31, 2026

International Field Archery Association (IFAA) World Field Archery Championships Field archers from around the world will compete for IFAA world titles. All NFAA members are welcome!

August 21–23, 2026

First Dakota Classic | NFAA Outdoor National Target Championships

Hosted back-to-back in Yankton, the National Roundup unites two national tournaments into a premier weekend of elite competition.

September 24–October 4, 2026

World Archery Field Championships | World Archery 3D Championships

Hosted concurrently, this unprecedented dual World Championship event is set to make archery history in Yankton.

With eight major events spanning the summer and early fall, 2026 promises to be one of the busiest and most exciting outdoor archery seasons that Yankton has ever seen. The NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for world-class archery competition.

Meet our team

Bruce Cull was born in Yankton and raised in Springfield, SD. He graduated from Springfield High School and went on to the University of South Dakota at Springfield. Bruce worked in the auto industry through the mid-1980s. In 1985, he started Dakota Archery & Outdoor Sports in Yankton and was elected the Director of the South Dakota NFAA (National Field Archery Association). In 1999, he was elected NFAA President where he worked to move the NFAA Corporate headquarters to Yankton, South Dakota in 2008. Currently, he is the NFAA Foundation Chairman-President and Director of the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center.

Brittany oversees the day-to-day operations of the NFAA and the NFAA Foundation, working closely with staff to provide leadership and administrative direction across all areas. She began her journey with the NFAA in 2012 as a “multi-slash” employee, taking on roles in reception, trade show management, marketing, and more, which allowed her to gain a deep understanding of the organization. A South Dakota native, Brittany holds a bachelor’s degree in Merchandising and Marketing from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an MBA from the University of South Dakota. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, cooking, traveling, and relaxing by the water. Brittany’s philosophy: life is about great food, adventures, and cozy moments at home.

Erika Jones | Governance & Administration Director of the NFAA

Erika serves as the Governance and Administration Director and currently acts as Executive Secretary. She works closely with the Council and State Directors to ensure consistency in governance, rules interpretation, and organizational procedures. Erika supports daily NFAA operations, including membership growth, program development, and communication with NFAA officers, the Board of Directors, and state associations. She holds master’s degrees in Forensic Psychology and Business Administration, specializing in Project Management.With 30+ years as an NFAA member, 10+ years as a Professional archer, and a former World #1 in Compound Women, Erika still cherishes her connection to archery. Some of her favorite things include keeping up with her two young boys, sipping iced lattes, and cheering loudly for Nebraska football.

Pam manages all the financial and accounting aspects with the NFAA. She is a Certified Public Accountant who worked in public accounting for 20 years before switching to the private sector. Joining the NFAA in 2017, she has enjoyed working with the NFAA team as well as meeting people from around the world. Pam enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Pam and her husband are kept busy with their three children, but wouldn’t want it any other way. Pam also loves to bake, watch HGTV, follow Nebraska Volleyball & Football and spend time outside tending to her flower and vegetable gardens.

Joanne serves as NFAA’s National Outreach Director, leading efforts to grow and strengthen outreach and development initiatives by building partnerships and developing programs that expand participation and engagement. She creates toolkits, outreach materials, and guides to support program implementation and growth. Before joining the NFAA, Joanne spent over 15 years providing strategy, outreach, project management, marketing support, and partnership development to advance nonprofit missions. Passionate about outdoor recreation and conservation, she is often found hiking or spending time near the water. Joanne also enjoys time with family and friends—and the occasional affection from her two disapproving cats.

Christie Colin serves as the Tradeshow & Event Manager, working closely with manufacturers and retailers while supporting all aspects of NFAA’s national and international events. A former professional archer with a distinguished competitive career, Christie has successfully transitioned her passion for the outdoors into a dynamic career in event management. She brings a strong background as an e-commerce manager specializing in outdoor products, combining industry insight with innovative strategies to drive engagement and growth. In her role with the NFAA, Christie oversees sponsor and vendor relations, manages booth placements, and helps ensure the success of key NFAA & NFAA Foundation events.

Morgan Wittmeier | Membership & Event Manager of the NFAA

Morgan manages the NFAA’s overall brand message, whether it is through creating marketing material, updating the website, or assisting with events. She is also responsible for improving the overall customer experience through the implementation of efficient communication strategies and membership processes. With a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of South Dakota and many years of experience working with event planning, digital marketing, and public relations, Morgan has a passion for all things design and communication. In her spare time, Morgan enjoys baking, cuddling up with her dogs, and spending quality time with family.

Bruce Cull | Executive Director of the NFAA & President of the NFAA Foundation
Brittany salonen - Geuther | Operations Director of the NFAA & NFAA Foundation
Pam Tramp | Accounting Director of the NFAA & NFAA Foundation
Joanne Martonik | National Outreach Director of the NFAA
Christie Colin | Event & Tradeshow manager of the NFAA

Delaney manages daily communications with members and the public, as well as running reports internally for the staff. She works closely with state affiliates, clubs, and individual members to ensure a positive and connected community experience. Delaney earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Nonprofit Studies at the University of South Dakota. This foundation equips her with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, policy, and mission-driven service. She is passionate about fostering engagement and creating meaningful connections that support the growth and success of the community she serves.

Lalit Jain | Scoring & Event Coordinator of the NFAA

Lalit specializes in managing electronic scoring and results for national and sectional archery events, ensuring both accuracy and efficiency. His favorite aspect of the job is taking on new challenges and exploring various venues across the country, which keeps his work engaging and dynamic. Originally from India, Lalit has a master’s degree in Coaching Leadership from Mount Marty University and brings extensive knowledge in coaching and sports event operations. In his spare time, he enjoys shooting his bow, watching movies, and cooking Indian dishes that remind him of home. Next on his bucket list is a road trip across the U.S. with friends.

Gabby Fink grew up north of Plankinton, SD on her family’s cow-calf operation. There she found a love for agriculture through working on the ranch and showing sheep and Hereford cattle through 4-H. This carried her to South Dakota State University to take on a Bachelors in Agricultural Communications. Today, Gabby is the Marketing and Events Coordinator at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center (NEYAC), where she is excited to promote everything the facility has to offer. Her main role is helping put on events for the Yankton community and beyond, while also supporting new partnerships and connections. She primarily focuses on coordinating community events and leading the marketing efforts that showcase NEYAC’s programs, activities, and growing outreach.

Aida Roman is Head Coach at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center and an Olympic silver medalist. Her archery journey began at age 10 in Mexico City, training alongside her brothers under Aurora Breton, a four-time Olympic archer. She competed in four Olympic Games, earning Mexico’s first Olympic silver in archery alongside teammate Mariana Avitia, and went on to win an Indoor World Championship, World Cup Final, and the Longines Prize for Precision. Aida’s career exemplifies discipline, resilience, and passion for the sport. After narrowly missing the 2024 Olympic team, she embraced coaching at NEYAC, sharing her knowledge and love for archery with the next generation. Beyond archery, she cherishes inspiring others and giving back to the sport that shaped her life.

Andy Neville is a longtime NFAA National Judge, bringing over a decade of experience officiating at national events and The Vegas Shoot. He also serves as a World Archery International Judge, Continental Judge, and a Level 3 National Judge with USA Archery. Throughout his career, Andy has contributed to numerous national and international archery committees, helping to shape the sport at all levels. His commitment to archery is rooted in a passion for fair play and integrity, with a focus on ensuring that outcomes are determined by athlete performance and adherence to the true intent of the rules.

Brian Sheffler | President of the NFAA

Brian S. Sheffler, the current NFAA President, brings years of leadership and a deep passion for archery to the role. Before his presidency, he served as NFAA Vice-President, gaining valuable experience. His prior roles include NFAA Indiana State Director, Indiana President, Indiana Field Vice-President, District 5 Junior Director, and various local club offices, reflecting his dedication to the sport. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in Elementary Education, Brian had a successful career with the Military Department of Indiana before retiring. In retirement, he enjoys archery, hunting, fishing, and camping, staying connected to the outdoors and the sport he loves. His leadership continues to inspire and support the growth of the archery community.

Doug is currently serving his 3rd term as NFAA Vice President. He has been a member of the NFAA for 30 years and sits on the NFAA Foundation Board and is a member of the Tournament committee which oversees the Vegas Shoot and the First Dakota Classic. He served as State Director of New Jersey for 12 years, and has been President of his local archery club for a total of 19 years. Doug received an Award of Merit by the NJ State Field Archery Association “In recognition of outstanding and unselfish contributions to the sport of archery” a prestigious award that has been given out only 11 times since 1961. Doug has been an NFAA official for 19 years and a Director of Shooting for The Vegas Shoot, Indoor Nationals and the First Dakota Classic for 10 years.

Lewis Holmes oversees the approval process for archers seeking to join the Pro Division and represents all professional archers in matters affecting the division. As a professional archer himself, Lewis brings firsthand experience and insight into the demands and opportunities of competing at the highest level. He works closely with the NFAA and Pro Division members to ensure fair practices, clear guidelines, and a supportive environment for elite competitors. Lewis’s deep understanding of the sport, both on and off the range, allows him to advocate effectively for professional archers, shaping policies and initiatives that promote growth, competition, and excellence within the division, while fostering a strong and connected community of elite archers.

Aida Roman | Head Coach of the NFAA Foundation
Doug Joyce | Vice President of the NFAA
Lewis Holmes | Pro Chairman of the nfaa
Gabby Fink | Marketing & Events Coordinator of the NFAA Foundation
Delaney Robison | Membership Coordinator of the NFAA
Andy NEville | Judge Training Coordinator & National Chief Judge of the NFAA

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2025 Year in Review by National Field Archery Association - Issuu