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To Our Archery Family,
As we wrap up 2024, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what an incredible year it’s been for the National Field Archery Association (NFAA). Thanks to you—our passionate and dedicated members—we’ve seen record growth and excitement across the board. From local club and shop shoots to our national events, the energy and enthusiasm for archery have been nothing short of amazing.
One of the biggest highlights this year was The Vegas Shoot, where we hit record-breaking numbers and showcased our sport on a global stage. Our membership continues to grow, and participation is stronger than ever. That’s because of you—your love for the sport drives everything we do, and we can’t thank you enough for showing up and making it all possible.
We also want to thank you for your patience as we tackle the challenges and roadblocks that come with an everchanging world. We’re working hard to adapt and find solutions to keep improving for our members.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re staying focused on what matters most: building a stronger, better NFAA for you. We’re always listening and open to your feedback, so if you’ve got ideas for how we can improve, let us know. Together, we’ll continue to grow archery nationwide and make this community even better.
We’re proud of the strides we’ve made this year in supporting the next generation of archers. We ramped up our scholarship program for junior shooters and will keep that momentum going in 2025. Collegiate archery is another area we’re targeting for growth, with a discounted membership for college shooters and new opportunities for them to compete and earn recognition.
Our Shooter of the Year program is evolving, too. In 2025, we’re rolling out a Junior Shooter of the Year category to give young athletes the spotlight they deserve. We’re also making changes to the overall program, adding more events and updating the format to make it bigger and better. Our goal is simple: we want to see more people participating in this program and earning the recognition they’ve worked so hard for.
And let’s not forget the launch of the NFAA Judges Program this year. This initiative is already making waves, with well-trained judges at the local and national levels ensuring consistent rules and procedures at all our events. It’s just one more way we’re working to enhance your experience on and off the range.
We’ve got some exciting new projects in the works for the upcoming year, and we can’t wait to share them with you. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been part of the NFAA for years, we’re committed to making sure you get the most out of this sport we all love.
Thank you for being part of the NFAA family and for your commitment to archery. Here’s to another year of growth, camaraderie, and success. See you on the range in 2025!
Best Regards,
Bruce Cull Executive Director
Rushmore Rumble
The 2024 Rushmore Rumble, held at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota on January 5-7, 2024, brought together 400 archery enthusiasts from across the U.S. and beyond for a thrilling three-day competition. Archers competed for cash prizes in the Flights and Championships divisions, and scholarships in the Junior divisions. Known for its high stakes and electrifying atmosphere, the Rumble showcased skill, precision, and sportsmanship at its finest.
In the first round, competitors faced off in a challenging 60-arrow format on the unique Vegas 5-Spot or Single Spot Target face. A standard Vegas 300 round was completed for the second round and scores were tabulated to determine the winners in each division. With hundreds of participants ranging from seasoned professionals to promising amateurs, the event offered something for everyone. The Professional divisions were the highlight, delivering intense shoot-offs on Sunday afternoon and nail-biting finishes.
Bodie Turner emerged victorious in the Championship Compound Open division, solidifying his reputation as a top competitor. The Championship Compound Female division saw Paige Pearce once again dominate and demonstrate remarkable consistency, matching the 900 shot by Bodie and 18 other men in the Championship Compound Open division.
Youth and amateur divisions added excitement, with many rising stars achieving personal bests. The support and camaraderie among competitors were evident, as archers of all levels encouraged each other throughout the tournament.
The Rushmore Rumble’s unique format and atmosphere continue to make it a favorite in the archery calendar. As the final arrows hit their marks and winners were crowned, the 2024 Rushmore Rumble concluded with a sense of achievement and anticipation for the upcoming year.
The 58th annual Vegas Shoot took place at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, drawing a record-breaking 4,491 archers from 57 countries and all 50 U.S. states. Competing for a total prize pool of $550,000 in cash and scholarships, this marked a historic milestone for The Vegas Shoot.
One of the highlights of the opening day was Meet the Pros, a chance for young archers to interact with top professionals. For 90 minutes, families, aspiring archers, and pros mingled, sharing advice, photos, and stories. Brady Ellison, a pro archer from the U.S., spoke about the importance of inspiring the next generation: “We are setting an example, making sure we’re doing what we’re supposed to, and giving these kids hope.” For many young competitors, such as 10-year-old Gabe Bowser from Ohio, meeting their heroes was a dream come true. “I’m surprised that there are so many pros here,” he said.
The 10K A Day Shootoff on Friday and Saturday brought together Championship archers who shot perfect 300s for a chance at a grand prize. After regular scoring, remaining archers competed in a closest-to-center shoot-off. On Day 1, Zachary Plonsky from Wisconsin won after three ends, marking a positive turn in his season. “My indoor season hasn’t been great so far, so this feels like a solid start,” he said. Day 2 saw a record 105 archers participate, and Ojas Deotale from India emerged victorious after four intense ends. His win was not just a personal achievement but a milestone for India’s archery community. “I’m very proud to be Indian and to win this,” he shared, reflecting on the significance of his win for himself and his country. Both days of the competition highlighted not just the talent and determination of the winners, but also the power of focus, national pride, and the inspiration they provide to others in the sport.
The highly anticipated Lucky Dog Shootoff took place on Day 3, giving Championship Open archers who had dropped a single point over the weekend a second chance at competing for the big prize on Sunday evening. Forty archers who posted 899 scores entered a sudden-death arrow-by-arrow shootoff for the opportunity to advance to the final round and vie for the $58,000 prize. After five intense ends, Nick Kappers emerged as the winner. He clinched his victory with a flawless donut shot in the X-ring, cementing his place in Vegas Shoot history as the 2024 Lucky Dog. “I’ve come close to winning the 10K and Lucky Dog before, but to actually pull it off is a huge deal,” Kappers said. Despite dropping a point on the first day of competition, Kappers remained confident in his chances of winning the grand prize. Before the Championship Open shootoff though, the Championship Compound Women took center stage. Tanja Gellenthien kept her cool and outshot Ella Gibson after two ends, claiming victory for the second year in a row. In the Championship Open division, Mathias Fullerton of Denmark demonstrated nerves of steel, outlasting 26 other competitors over 15 ends to earn the title of 2024 Vegas Champion and take home the $58,000 prize check.
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend was the significant number of junior and collegiate archers who earned over $38,500 in scholarships. These scholarships, awarded by the NFAA Foundation in collaboration with the Easton Foundations, reflect the ongoing commitment to support the next generation of archers. By offering financial support for both academic and athletic goals, these scholarships ensure that young athletes can pursue their passion for archery while advancing their education.
In all, the 2024 Vegas Shoot was an unforgettable event, filled with incredible performances from the world’s top archers, thrilling moments, and lasting memories, leaving everyone eager for what’s to come in 2025 and beyond.
“It feels like I'm dreaming a little bit. I’m gonna be celebrating this one for a while!”
- Mathias Fullerton
After 15 ends of shooting, Danish archer Mathias Fullerton demonstrated his nerves of steel and outlasted 27 other archers to earn the title of 2024 Vegas Champion, and took home a check for $58,000.
Currently ranked No. 7 in the World, the archer shot 45 consecutive tens over 15 ends, maintaining the mindset of “one arrow more, one arrow more, one arrow more.”
“I wasn’t really focused on scores too much, it was more ‘don’t mess up, just do what you know how to do.’” said the newly-crowned Vegas Shoot Champion. When asked how he felt in the moment, Fullerton laughed. “I think I am feeling every emotion right now, and they are just coming out.”
One could almost feel the weight of this accomplishment as it hit the young Dane, who stood on the shooting line facing his winning target. He checked his target through binoculars several times, still in disbelief, before wiping his face as emotion overwhelmed him. In a heartwarming display of support, archer after archer approached Fullerton on the arena floor.
The shootoff began with 27 archers but saw some notables drop out early: Mike Schloesser, Bodie Turner Lucky Dog Nick Kappers, James Lutz all left by end number five. Crowd favorite Kyle Douglas and $10K Shootoff winner Ojas Deotale held on a bit longer, but by end number eight, there were just three archers left.
Coaches and friends pressed closer together, not wanting to miss a single glimpse of their favorites. Encouraged by the announcer, the crowd began to cheer louder after each shot. “This is not golf, ladies and gentleman, this is archery!”
Over and over, the call of “Ten. Ten. Ten.” echoed through the packed arena. A low liner from Fullerton brought some “ooos,” from the crowd, but it was declared a ten and the shootoff continued.
Finally, a dropped point from Hansen earned him a third place finish. His exit was accompanied by applause and cheers from the crowd.
Back and forth went Marlow and Fullerton. With each ten, the crowd’s support forth both archers grew louder. Then, on the last arrow of end number 15 (the 4th end in Marlow and Fullerton’s duel), Marlow shot a liner on his last arrow. Fullerton remained calm and collected, drilling a ten and sealing the victory.
“It feels like I’m dreaming a bit,” said Fullerton. “I’m gonna be celebrating this one for a while!”
Following the competition, an anti-doping infraction resulted in the discqualification of Jacob Marlow. Stephan Hansen was moved to 2nd place, and Kyle Douglas advanced to 3rd place on the podium.
“I am feeling amazing. I am happy, I am excited... I have all the feelings!”
- Tanja Gellenthien
Tanja Gellenthien retains Vegas Champion title
Danish archer Tanja Gellenthien, currently ranked fourth in the world, beat number one to secure victory for the second consecutive year (and her third title overall) at the largest archery tournament in the world.
Tanja clinched the female compound championship event at The Vegas Shoot for the second straight year with an impeccable performance during the 58th edition held at the South Point Hotel and Casino. She entered the arena to shoot for the title with Brit Ella Gibson, who shot a perfect 900-point Vegas round for the first time in 2024.
The pair only went two ends before Gibson dropped a nine with her third arrow. Gellenthien – who was put in the same spot by Paige Pearce one year ago – held firm, delivering a clean middle 10 before turning to celebrate.
“I am feeling amazing. It’s been a really stressful weekend, as Vegas always is, so I feel relieved. I am happy, I am excited... I have all the feelings.”, said Tanja.
It’s another major for Tanja, who has now won Vegas in 2017, 2023 and 2024.
Although she leaves with second, Ella Gibson has now joined the elusive 900 club. She is only the eighth woman in history to hit the perfect mark.
“It was amazing to shoot 900 here in Vegas because it’s my first time doing that, so that felt incredible today,” said Gibson. “I felt quite low after losing the shoot down, but I’m really happy to finally win a medal in Vegas.”
CHAMPIONSHIP COMPOUND FEMALE PODIUM
2. Ella Gibson 1. Tanja Gellenthien 3. Dafne Quintero
Championship Results
900 club
Mathias Fullerton
dave cousins Nick Kappers
Martin Damsbo Tanja Gellenthien Jacob Slusarz braden gellenthien
JP Boulch lawson veit
Marco bruno
ojas deotale
stephan hansen remington boyer
Nicolas Girard
tim jevsnik
Olivia Dean
Mathias fullerton
bodie turner
aman saini
Mike Schloesser
Jacob Miller
James lutz Jozef Bosansky richard bowen
chris Hacker
Christian clark
dane johnson
Lewis holmes iii
cody lippencott
kyle douglas
Collegiate results
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6
7
8
38
39
40
41
42
1
2
3
7
8
3
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Big Wins at the Vegas Shoot:
$10K A Day and Lucky Dog
The 2024 Vegas Shoot delivered thrilling action and high-stakes drama across three incredible shoot offs leading up to the big show, the Championship Shoot Off on Sunday. These events showcased the skill, determination, and grit that make The Vegas Shoot the premier archery event in the world. Each shoot off follows a sudden death format: archers compete in a single-arrow shoot off, with those tying for the highest score continuing to the next round and those who miss being eliminated. This intense process repeats until only one archer is left standing.
$10K-A-Day Shoot Offs: High-Stakes Archery
Added to the Vegas Shoot in 2019, the $10K-A-Day Shoot Offs on Friday and Saturday have quickly become marquee events. Championship archers who shoot perfect 300 scores compete in a winner-takes-all shoot off for a $10,000 prize. The format, intensity, and substantial payout have solidified its status as a can’t-miss event for competitors and spectators alike.
Friday’s $10K Champion: Zachary Plonsky
Zachary Plonsky emerged victorious on Day 1, outlasting a field of 83 archers in a nail-biting contest. Plonsky’s poise under pressure was on full display as he navigated a dramatic reshoot due to a pass-through, ultimately claiming the $10,000 prize and setting the tone for an exhilarating weekend.
Saturday’s $10K Champion: Ojas Pravin Deotale
Saturday saw another incredible shoot off, with Ojas Pravin Deotale becoming the second Indian archer in history to conquer the $10K-A-Day Shoot Off. Deotale’s precision and focus led him to a hard-fought victory against former World Champion Stephan Hansen, marking a milestone achievement for Indian archery.
The Lucky Dog: A Vegas Tradition
The Lucky Dog Shoot-Off remains one of the most iconic traditions at The Vegas Shoot. This competition offers archers who scored 899 in qualification a chance to compete against the perfect 900s for the grand prize of $58,000. If the Lucky Dog doesn’t win the Championship Shoot-Off, they still secure the top spot among the 899s—a win-all or almost-nothing opportunity. 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 year, Nick Kappers of Spring Valley, Minnesota, emerged as the Lucky Dog champion. Kappers showcased his skill and determination in a head-to-head battle against Canadian Isaac Bradford, earning his spot in the final showdown.
awarded $38,550 in scholarships at The Vegas Shoot 2024
Over the course of two days, youth and collegiate archers engaged in a display of precision, shooting 60 arrows to secure a coveted spot among the top three finishers in each division. The winners were celebrated with a ceremony in the Championship Arena on Saturday. Each archer received a medal, a scholarship check, and, of course, bragging rights.
As the young athletes patiently waited for their categories to be called, they chatted with their new friends. “I’m almost more nervous to go up there [to the podium] than I was shooting! There’s gonna be like, a thousand people watching us!” said Compound Cub Female silver medalist, Alaska Harris.
“When I was shooting, I was just kind of chill and just focusing on my score. This is a lot more nerve-wracking because of all of these people, but also it’s cool because I’m surprised and happy to be standing here,” said Compound Youth Female Champion, Jordyn Hill.
The collective scholarship pool, made possible in collaboration with the Easton Foundations, totaled an impressive $38,550. Compound and Recurve archers in the Cub, Youth, and Young Adult divisions shared a substantial $27,000 prize pool. Collegiate archers had their own $8,000 prize pool, complemented by an additional $1,550 set aside for a team travel scholarship. Finally, the event celebrated the literary talents of two individuals, with $1,000 scholarships awarded to the winners of the NFAA’s essay contest.
Winners may apply their scholarship funds towards college or higher education. Even the youngest cub and youth competitors were eligible to win – the NFAA will track all scholarships until archers are old enough to use them. These young archers can accumulate winnings in the coming years to fund their future academic endeavors.
Alongside the athletic achievements, two outstanding essayists, Kavi Badhwar and Natalie Rose Chicombing, were awarded $1,000 scholarships each for their stories and expressions on the profound impact of archery on their lives.
Kavi shared that Hawkeye was one of his favorite Marvel characters growing up. The Arizona-native said that he was inspired by the superhero’s perseverance to not only take up archery, but also to pursue the sport as a newfound passion. “He is surrounded by all these heroes of unimaginable origins, and he just has a bow and arrow, but he’s able
to keep up with them as an equal.” Kavi says that he draws inspiration from this resilience when surround by “so many splendid archers at tournaments like [The Vegas Shoot].”
Meanwhile, Natalie focused on the doubts she faces in archery, and how she overcomes them with the help of community. “Archery is such an individual sport, but we have a unique aspect of community that can empower [the athlete] a bit more.” The Houston-based archer is eager to give back to the archery community through technology, as she hopes to study Computer Science in the future. “I’m hoping to expand and contribute to technological advances through existing offerings like Between Ends, the NFAA app, and even go beyond that.”
The Vegas Shoot celebrated youth and collegiate excellence across a variety of disciplines. The top finishers in each division are as follows:
Compound Male
Cub: Brody Terry (Arizona), Paycen Sutherlin (Colorado), Trey Miernicki (Colorado)
Youth: Christopher Fong (Idaho), Noah McIntyre (South Dakota), Robert Thompson (Illinois)
Young Adult: Luis Esteban Rios (Mexico), Ramon Daniel Fonseca (Mexico), Mikie Kolb (Arizona)
Compound Female
Cub: Amarie Dehoyos (Texas), Alaska Harris (Colorado), Kayzlee Carter (Utah)
Youth: Jordyn Hill (Alabama), Chloe Nelsen (Wisconsin), Hunter Ivie (Utah)
Young Adult: Hannah Summers (Indiana), Savannah O’Donohue (Louisiana), Jaden Reed (Wisconsin)
Recurve Male
Cub: Alain Pinto (Texas), Anirudhkalyan Pinjala (Utah), Luca Larios (California)
Youth: Aarya Arun (Virginia), German Garcia Vega (California), Jack Chen (California)
Young Adult: Jackson Miller (Arizona), Jack Houghton (California), Chenyu Shi (California)
Reflecting on 13 years of growth for the vegas shoot Farewell to south Point:
The Vegas Shoot, one of the most iconic events in the archery world, has spent the last 13 years at the South Point Hotel & Casino, creating countless memories and milestones in the sport. From 2012 to 2024, this partnership allowed The Vegas Shoot to grow from 1,800 archers to an astounding 4,500 participants, cementing its status as the largest indoor archery tournament in the world.
Built to Grow Together
The relationship between The Vegas Shoot and South Point Hotel & Casino has been one of mutual growth and synergy. When The Vegas Shoot made South Point its home in 2012, it was already a major event, and South Point was a venue on the rise. The growth of both entities during this time created the perfect partnership, allowing the tournament to evolve into the largest indoor archery event in the world.
South Point’s own expansions coincided with the event’s growth, making it an ideal host. In 2013, South Point added its arena concourse, which provided space for an expanded trade show, giving participants and fans access to the latest in archery equipment, gear, and technology. The introduction of the Priefert Arenas added critical competition space, ensuring the tournament could welcome its rapidly growing number of participants. Another milestone came when South Point’s hotel ballrooms became available as additional practice areas. This allowed The Vegas Shoot to create a practice space with more than 90 targets and offer archers the first-ever 24-hour
practice opportunity in archery history—a feature that quickly became one of the event’s most unique and celebrated highlights. Throughout the years, South Point’s growth and The Vegas Shoot’s evolution complemented each other, creating a partnership that allowed the event to flourish and deliver a world-class experience for archers and spectators alike. While South Point didn’t build specifically for The Vegas Shoot, its expansions and facilities made it a perfect home for 13 remarkable years, helping set the stage for record-breaking participation.
Unforgettable Memories
Over the years, South Point has been more than just a venue; it’s been a hub for unforgettable moments in archery. From recordbreaking participation numbers to witnessing the world’s best archers compete for millions in prize money, the venue has been the backdrop to countless stories of triumph and camaraderie.
1. Memorable Wins
Throughout its tenure at South Point Hotel, The Vegas Shoot has witnessed breathtaking victories that remain etched in archery history. Some of the most memorable moments include Mike Schloesser (NED), the first non-American archer to win the tournament in 2014, who repeated his triumph in 2017. Kyle Douglas (USA) achieved back-to-back victories in 2020 and 2021, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
2. The Lucky Dogs Who Triumphed
A unique and thrilling aspect of The Vegas Shoot is the “Lucky Dog,” an archer who shoots a perfect score in a second-chance round and joins the championship shoot-off. At South Point, two Lucky Dogs made history. In 2016, Sergio Pagni (ITA) became the first Lucky Dog to win the Vegas title, overcoming all previously perfect shooters.
In 2018, Chris Perkins (CAN) earned the Lucky Dog spot and initially finished second but was later named champion after Bob Eyler’s disqualification for violating anti-doping rules.
5. The 2024 Champion
3. The Oldest Participant’s Remarkable Feat
In 2023, Charles Johnson, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, competed for the first time in the compound flights. His participation proved that archery is truly a sport for all ages, inspiring others with his joy and camaraderie.
4. Women Competing Among Men
A historic moment came in 2017, when the Vegas Shoot opened its Championship Compound Open division to both male and female archers. Sara López, a professional archer from Colombia, became the first woman to compete in the division, finishing with an impressive score of 898 and proving that men and women are equals in the sport of archery.
In addition, a record number of women achieved perfect 900 scores during the event’s tenure at South Point. These achievements led to the first-ever women’s 900 shoot-offs in 2022 and 2023, marking significant milestones for women in archery.
In 2024, Denmark’s Mathias Fullerton captured the championship title, etching his name into the history books during The Vegas Shoot’s final year at South Point. This moment was a fitting conclusion to an incredible chapter, highlighting the talent and excitement that has defined the event’s time at this beloved venue.
Looking to the Future
Despite the cherished memories, The Vegas Shoot has simply outgrown South Point. As we bid farewell to our 13-year home, we look forward to an exciting new chapter at Caesars Entertainment properties in 2025. This move represents a significant step forward, with the event expanding across Paris Las Vegas, Horseshoe Las Vegas, and the iconic PH Live! Theater.
In 2026, the event will further grow to include the ballrooms at Planet Hollywood, providing even more competition space. Caesars Entertainment’s vast array of properties offers unmatched potential for future expansion, ensuring that The Vegas Shoot can continue to grow alongside the sport of archery.
This new home also comes with added perks for participants and fans alike. From direct access to world-class entertainment and shopping to an array of restaurants and attractions on the Las Vegas Strip, the new venues promise to deliver a next-level experience for everyone involved.
A New Challenge
Moving into a new home always comes with adjustments, and transitioning to Caesars Properties will be no different. But with challenges come opportunities, and we’re excited to embrace this new chapter with the same passion and commitment that has defined The Vegas Shoot for decades.
As we settle into this fresh start, we remain dedicated to preserving the spirit of the event while enhancing it with new experiences and opportunities. The Vegas Shoot’s legacy at South Point will always hold a special place in our hearts, but the future is bright, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the next era of this incredible event.
Here’s to the memories we’ve made, the milestones we’ve reached, and the future we’ll build together. We’ll see you on the Strip in 2025!
South Point Hall of FAme:
2012-2024 champions
tanja gellenthien Kris schaff
Mathias fullerton
erika anschutz
Jesse broadwater
Erika Jones Reo Wilde
sarah lance Mike schloesser
Sarah prieels Alex wifler
Inge Van Caspel sergio pagni tanja jensen Mike schloesser
alexis ruiz
christopher perkins
sara lopez sergio pagni
Paige pearce Kyle douglas
liko arreola kyle douglas
Liko arreola bodie turner
tanja gellenthien
2025 national EVENTS
rushmore rumble
nfaa easton yankton archery center
yankton, south dakota
the great chicago open
navy pier
chicago, illinois
nfaa indoor national championships
navy pier
chicago, illinois
the vegas shoot
horseshoe and paris hotels
las vegas, nevada
NFAA 1-arrow 3d national championships break the barriers
fresno, california
nfaa marked 3d national championships
straight arrow bowhunters
redding, california
nfaa outdoor national field championships
mechanicsburg archers
mechanicsburg, pennsylvania
first dakota classic
nfaa easton yankton archery center
yankton, south dakota
nfaa outdoor national target championships
nfaa easton yankton archery center
yankton, south dakota
indoor National Championships
The 44th edition of the NFAA Indoor National Championship showcased archery talent, drawing over 1,500 shooters from around the globe to Louisville, Kentucky. Held from March 15–17, 2024, 1,443 participants from 48 U.S. states, Canada, Denmark, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Netherlands competed for National Champion titles and the coveted Silver Bowl trophy. This annual event, a staple on the calendar for archery enthusiasts, has been hosted in various cities over its 44-year history, including Omaha, Kansas City, and Tulsa, among others.
The event unfolded over two days, with professional divisions competing on Friday and Saturday, and amateurs on Saturday and Sunday. Archers shot the NFAA Indoor Round on the iconic blue and white target face, aiming for a maximum score of 300 points per round. Cubs, aged 11 and under, competed from 10 yards, while others shot from 20 yards.
The Meet & Greet with the Pros, held on Friday afternoon, was open to archers aged 18 and under. This event provided a chance for both professional and junior archers to connect, exchange autographs, and build relationships. Following the Meet & Greet, the ProAm event took place on Friday evening, pairing amateurs with professionals in a five-end challenge that encouraged camaraderie. Teams such as Isaac Sullivan/Thomas Gawel and Kyle Douglas/Caleb Quiocho tied for first with perfect scores. Professional Archer Robert Householder reflected on the experience, saying, “I remember wanting to shoot with Pros before I became one; this event is a great opportunity for everyone.”
Saturday’s competition featured standout performances, including Mathias Fullerton’s win in the Professional Male Freestyle division. Just six weeks after his Vegas Shoot victory, he outperformed 18 competitors in a shoot-off. Paige Pearce dominated the Professional Female Freestyle division with a flawless 600 and 120X. In the Senior Male Pro division, Bill Drake triumphed in a dramatic shoot-off.
The Adult Male Freestyle division concluded with a thrilling tie between Landon Standish and Jason Goedken, both scoring 600 with 119 Xs after 120 arrows. Landon claimed victory in a dramatic shoot-off. The Young Adult Male Freestyle division had an even more intense finish, with Barrett Pirtle, Caleb Quiocho, and Owen Frohmader also tying at 600 with 119 Xs. Barrett triumphed after two ends, bringing the national championship back to his home state of Kansas. In the Adult Female Freestyle division, Hannah Summers emerged as the winner, while Gracen Fletcher claimed the top spot in the Young Adult Female Freestyle division, both scoring 600 with 115 Xs.
A remarkable 40 National Records were either tied or broken at the event, including Alain Pinto, who set a new mark in Cub Male Freestyle Limited Recurve with a score of 599 and 81 Xs, Chloe Nelsen, who achieved an impressive 600 with 115 Xs in Youth Female Freestyle, and Brian Way, who set a new standard in Adult Male Barebow Recurve with a score of 583 and 58 Xs.
As the 2024 NFAA Indoor Nationals concluded, 93 champions were crowned in total, celebrating talent, perseverance, and camaraderie in this hallmark event of the archery calendar. With the close of the 2024 indoor season, archers began to look toward the outdoor season and all that it has to offer including 3D, field, and target archery.
7
Amateur divisions
BTB & NFAA 1- Arrow 3d National Championship
The 2024 NFAA & BTB 1-Arrow 3D National Championship, held April 13-14 at the Wagner Ranch in Fresno, CA, saw a record 560 archers competing in its second edition as an NFAA National Championship. The event featured several improvements, including streamlined registration, target assignments, and scorecard pick-up. The range layout was enhanced for better safety and archery experience, and a shortened course from 101 to 85 targets allowed participants to finish earlier on Sunday.
The competition began with a qualification round using a 12ring scoring system, where archers shot at life-sized 3D targets. Participants completed 51 targets on Saturday and 34 on Sunday. A key addition this year was the National Team Add-On, where archers teamed up with a partner of the same shooting style to compete for a National Team Champion title and a special buckle award. Over 100 teams participated, creating a competitive and supportive atmosphere.
The Compound and Recurve Open Team divisions offered significant prize money, heightening the stakes. Despite rainy weather, the event was a success, showcasing the dedication of both organizers and participants. In addition to the fierce competition, archers had the chance to enjoy the outdoor setting and build lasting memories.
Break the Barriers (BTB), the non-profit organization behind the event, is committed to improving access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Founded in 1984 in Fresno, BTB’s Archery program is the largest inclusive archery program in the U.S., serving over 200 juniors, adults, and military veterans. The facility also serves as a Paralympic training center, with a specialized program for Disabled American Veterans.
First dakota classic
The 2024 First Dakota Classic was hosted at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota from April 19-21. Known as one of the premier indoor distance tournaments, the event featured the NFAA Classic 600 round and offered substantial payouts, guaranteeing 70% payback in all Flight and Championship categories. Junior division champions also competed for scholarships, adding to the tournament’s allure.
The First Dakota Classic followed a two-phase format: a qualification round and head-to-head eliminations. The NFAA Classic 600 round served as a challenging test of skill and consistency for the qualification round. Archers completed four ends of five arrows at three distances, starting with the closest. Distances varied by division: Cubs shot at 10-20-30 yards, Youth at 30-40-50 yards, and Young Adults, Adults, and Seniors at 40-50-60 yards. Targets used the 6-ring center spot of the 92 cm face, with the X-ring serving as a tiebreaker. The stakes rose during the elimination rounds, where top qualifiers faced off in head-to-head matches, creating high-pressure situations and thrilling finales.
In the Championship Compound Open division, Kyle Douglas showcased exceptional consistency, securing another victory and Paige Pearce delivered an X in a closest-to-center shoot-off arrow to win the Championship Compound Female division championship. The amateur and youth divisions lit up the competition, with rising stars delivering standout performances and making a memorable impact on the event.
As the 2024 First Dakota Classic wrapped up, it solidified its spot as a must-attend event on the archery circuit. With a perfect mix of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship, the tournament delivered unforgettable moments and set the bar sky-high for next year’s competition.
9 Tim Audus US-SD 590 31
9 Michael Pettit US-CO 568 14
9 Richard Smith US-CO 559 11
9 Ron Barndt US-MT 579 18
9 Wayne Peckham US-CO 555 15
9 Troy White US-NE 571 16
9 Jeff Button US-WI 570 13
9 Steven Jones US-TX 583 19
CHAMPIONSHIP COMPOUND SENIOR FEMALE
1 Tamara Fontenot US-CO 574 16 $400
2 Cindy Ruetten US-WI 558 9 CHAMPIONSHIP COMPOUND YOUNG ADULT
1 Noah McIntyre US-SD 585 27 $500
2 Josiah Hays US-SD 577 18 $225
3 Cameron Gaines US-MT 580 18 $150
4 Jackson Higgins US-ID 575 10 $100 CHAMPIONSHIP RECURVE FEMALE
1 Larry Dahlberg US-WY 563 14 $262 2 Jesse Carter US-ND 567 10 $150 3 Cory Craig US-WI 567 13 $98 4 Alvin Gregg US-KS 565 15 $66 5 Lee Hetletved US-ND 568 13 6 Chad Morgan US-NE 564
3-Star Shoot Off
The return of the infamous 3-Star Shoot Off in 2024 was a highly anticipated event, bringing together top archers from across the nation. Archers who participated in all three of the prestigious 3-Star events—the Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor Nationals, and First Dakota Classic—earned the chance to compete for significant cash prizes in this special shoot-off held during the Dakota Classic on April 20. Here’s how the competition played out:
Format:
• Two categories: Professional and Amateur archers, each with their own prize pool.
• Prizes:
• $5,000 for the Professional category winner.
• $2,500 for the Amateur category winner.
• Starting Distance: Archers began at a distance of 5 yards, each taking a single shot at a specially designed target, with the center spot no larger than a half dollar.
• Elimination Process: If an archer achieved the maximum score for that round, they advanced to a distance 5 yards farther along with the other successful competitors. However, if an archer missed the target while others succeeded at the same distance, they were eliminated from the event.
• Finals: The event continued with archers being eliminated at each distance until only one Professional and one Amateur archer remained standing.
This shoot-off format combined precision, strategy, and mental focus, as archers had to stay sharp with each progressive distance. It was a true test of skill for all involved, culminating in a high-stakes battle for the top spots in both the professional and amateur categories.
One of the youngest competitors on the shooting line, 14-year-old Chase Prindle of Amery, Wisconsin, put on a remarkable performance to win the Amateur category at the 40-yard distance. Chase reflected on his win, “I was shocked when I won the shootoff. Many times throughout the event I had thought I had missed the bullseye, but each time had successfully hit my shot. My goal was to shoot my best each round. After each round, came another round and another round. Staying focused on one shot at a time helped me win this event.”
The Professional category was won by Tim Gillingham, a veteran archer from Provo, Utah. Speaking about his impressive victory, he shared, “At 55 years old, it feels good to win against some of the great talent in the game. I’ve won it before several years ago when it was outside. It takes focus, great sight marks, and great execution to hit that small target all the way to 50 yards.”
The 2024 3-Star Shoot Off brought together a dynamic blend of rising stars and seasoned professionals. With fierce competition and high stakes, the event was a true showcase of precision and mental toughness. As this year’s Shoot Off wraps up, it’s clear that the 3-Star Shoot Off will continue to be a must-see event for archery enthusiasts in the years ahead.
NFAA Marked 3d National Championship
The 30th annual NFAA Marked 3D National Championship as part of the 40th Western Classic Trail Shoot, took place in Redding, California, from May 3-5 and attracted a staggering 1,673 archers in 2024. Known as a ‘bucket list’ tournament for archers around the world, the event is the world’s largest marked 3D archery competition.
Competitors faced a challenging course during the weekend, shooting 25 targets on each Friday and Saturday, and 20 targets on Sunday. Each target was scored using a 2-arrow system with rings valued at 11, 10, and 8 points, challenging archers to demonstrate precision and consistency throughout the competition. The event provided an exciting platform for showcasing talent, with high-score prizes awarded to the top male and female shooters. This year’s champions in the Professional Male and Female Freestyle divisions were Jimmy Lutz and Paige Pearce. Jimmy scored an incredible 1539 points out of a possible 1540 and won top honors after a shoot-off with Mike Schloesser.
Beyond the competition, the championship offered big raffles, awards in various classes, and a vibrant atmosphere. The diverse field of participants and the event’s welcoming spirit underscored its reputation as one of the largest and most prestigious 3D archery tournaments in the world. The NFAA congratulates all participants and extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the 30th annual NFAA Marked 3D National Championship a memorable success.
8 Dennis Tucker 567 MASTER
1 Jim Yoakum 1160
MASTER SENIOR MALE BAREBOW
1 Gary Mccain 1292
2 Tom Daley 1245
3 Pat Norris 758
MASTER SENIOR FEMALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Russell Scharman 1083
2 Rodney Sharp 1015
SILVER SENIOR FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Paula Baker 1474
2 Sheilah Bomar 1449
3 Karen Palmer 1411
4 Marsha Quan 1387
5 Catherine Belzner 1377
6 Sharyn Granville 1214
7 Jill Crinklaw 438
SILVER SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE
1 Randy Long 1510
2 Kevin Pearce 1505
3 Bob Grover 1503
4 Jim McKee Jr. 1502
5 Matt Anderson 1497
6 Bernie Punzalan 1494
7 Patrick Finney 1488
8 Melvin Bauman 1487
8 James Curl 1487 10 Dean Thornton 1484 11 Robert Seabury 1482 12 Chuck Gilbert 1478 12 Dan Stone 1478 14 Steve Cook 1476 15 John Staderoli 1474 15 John Hammill 1474 17 Chet Mainwaring 1470
18 Mike Hernandez 1469 19 Donny Gresdel 1466
20 Steven Green 1462
21 Kevin Stark 1461
21 Ronald Babcock 1461
23 Scott Davidson 1455
24 Tim Thomas 1454
25 Duane Burgess 1453
26 Fred Modaff 1451
27 Rick Rallison 1447
28 Darryl Williams 1438
29 Ken Graham 1436
30 Dean Stebner 1433
31 Jeff Burks 1431
32 Bruce Hamilton 1425
The National Roundup
The 79th annual NFAA Outdoor National Field Championships and 7th annual Outdoor National Target Championships took place at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota, from August 22–25, 2024. Nearly 600 archers, ranging from 6 to 80 years old and representing 40 U.S. states and four countries, including Olympians and world champions, competed in this exciting event.
The National Field Championships included several rounds:
• Field & Hunter Rounds: Archers shot 28 Field and 28 Hunter targets, each requiring 4 arrows at varying distances and angles.
• Animal Round: Competitors faced 28 animal targets, shooting 1-3 arrows per target, emphasizing precision and strategy.
The weekend also featured the 7th NFAA Outdoor National Target Championships, which drew 304 participants—50 more than the previous year. The event began with the NFAA Classic 600 Round on Day 1, with archers shooting 60 arrows at three distances, followed by the NFAA 900 Round on Day 2, totaling 90 arrows. Distances varied by age group, with Cubs shooting 10–30 yards, Youth shooting 30–50 yards, and others shooting 40–60 yards. National champions in each division were awarded silver bowls, while over $20,000 in prize money was distributed to top finishers in the Professional divisions.
The 2024 National Roundup was a great success, offering participants the chance to compete in diverse field and target rounds, sharpen their skills.
6 Courtney Eberts 1758
7 Clare Maness 1740
8 Gracelyn Chambers 1711
SENIOR PROFESSIONAL MALE FREESTYLE
1 Bill Drake 1838 $1,550
2 Timothy Gillingham 1823 $886
3 Lynn Hoch 1820 $579
4 Ron Barndt 1805 $392
5 Benton Christensen 1804
6 Tim Audus 1798
7 Tim Wilson 1785
8 Judd Olsen 1771
9 Keith Trail 1753
10 Louis Russo 1748
SILVER SENIOR PROFESSIONAL FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Melanie White 1745 $223
SILVER SENIOR PROFESSIONAL MALE FREESTYLE
1 Michael Leiter 1776 $975
2 Robert Anderson 1761 $525
3 Jeff Button 1738
4 Richard Smith 1733
5 Michael Pettit 1682
6 Laney Bisbee 1662
ADULT FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Heather Stewart 1657
2 Marcella Hebert 1646
3 Jessica Bowser 1616
4 Carlee Ready 1611
5 Maren Sanders 1607
6 Melissa McBride 1607
7 Caitlin Griffin 1597
8 Jennifer Rodasky 1556 ADULT MALE FREESTYLE
1 Grady Kane 1688
2 Jason Goedken 1686
3 Clayton Moore 1685
4 Owen Frohmader 1685
5 Daniel Button 1678
6 Adam Jirovsky 1678
7 Louis Sheedy 1676
8 Alex Mueller 1675
9 Adam Kramer 1674
Zachary Rebstock 1673
Jesse Given 1673
Zachary Ball 1671
Brad Rega 1662
Adam Stringham 1660
Ryan Thomas 1655
Brent Duenow 1652
Gawel 1607
Taylor Given 1646
Neal Ruebush 1640
Walberg 1640
Boles 1613
Tobin 1603
Allen Capp 1541
Trent Withers 1522
Christina Lyons 1417
Archana Kongara 984
Joel Turner 1459
Garrett Prahl 1432
James Frigon 1262
Justice Sears 1108
Mccain 1276
Garrick Meeker 685
Kelly Eagleton 1081
Clifton Montgomery 1256
Robert Ayotte 1111
Gary Mccain 1108
Samuel Sanchez 659
Patty Hoppe 1562 MASTER SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE
Larry Butterfield 1655
Steven Gibbs 1630
Bill Myers 1626
Roger Wilson 1625
Tim Grant 1616
Rick Gilley 1615
16 Gerald Hoppe 1566
1560
Jasper 1524
Ron Hoppe 1521 20 Tom Kennedy 793
SILVER SENIOR FEMALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Kimberly Boyack 1419
SILVER SENIOR MALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Marvin Riggs 1597
2 Steve Malone 1596
3 Kirk Toth 1567
4 Rick Boyack 1541
5 Steve Sinclair 1549
SILVER SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE LIMITIED
1 Dave Hryn 1582
2 Joseph Pfannenstein 1570
SILVER SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Steve Bergh 1439
2 Stuart Aldridge 1401
3 David Wearne 1378
4 Jeff Matuszak 406
SILVER SENIOR MALE BAREBOW
1 Earle IV Bateman 1506
SILVER SENIOR MALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Thomas Ramsbacher 1327
SILVER SENIOR MALE TRADITIONAL
1 Alan Eagleton 1348
SENIOR FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Deanna Cronin 1620
2 Debra Ochs 1607
3 Ellen Cameron-Rice 1584
4 Michelle Dwyer 1430
SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE
1 Daric Stalder 1664
2 Doyle Ritchie 1658
3 Christopher Deston 1653
4 Lee Hetletved 1644
5 Fran Ohlsen 1642
6 Alvin Gregg 1635
7 Christopher Robinson 1632
8 Greg Fletcher 1626
9 Clint Fox 1621
10 Charlie Kester 1612
11 Benjamin Larkins 1608
12 Nathan Carline 1603
13 Chris Mack 1594
14 Joel Moreno 1592
15 Jeff Hudgens 1588
16 Brian Cronin 1588
17 Aaron Higgins 1552
18 Chris Dwyer 1479
SENIOR FEMALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Jeannette Riggs 1478
2 Suzanne Santoyo 1468
3 Donna Starry 1263
SENIOR MALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 David Smith 1649
2 Gary Curl 1633
3 Bryan Thibodeaux 1624
4 Greg McBride 1613
5 Todd Weis 1578
6 Kevin Barto 1565
SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE LIMITED
1 Leroy Capp 1571
2 Oliver Austin 1463
SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Stephen Williams 1455
2 Stony Maness 1414
SENIOR MALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Kyle McCormack 1438
2 Chad Swartz 1175
SENIOR MALE TRADITIONAL
1 Robert Laughton 1195
2 Chad Coody 1108
YOUNG ADULT FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Gracen Fletcher 1681
2 Marla Rupar 1674
3 Annabelle Moore 1655
4 Hatley Hetletved 1621
5 Zoie Thompson 1617
6 Valarie Knutson 1602
7 Tirzah Herold 1557
8 Zoe Peterson 1544
YOUNG ADULT MALE FREESTYLE
1 Christopher Fong 1688
2 Jacob Merkel 1687
3 Chase Crotty 1680
4 Jackson Higgins 1647
5 Landon Tieszen 1645
6 Landon Mosset 1630
7 Eric Armstrong 1616
8 Ben McFarland 1585
9 Kadin Beneke 1574
YOUNG ADULT FEMALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Shannon Steeley 1597
YOUNG ADULT MALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Jack Moorhouse 1604
2 Russell Walberg 1572
3 Andrew Moorhouse 1561
4 Caden Bentley 1480
YOUNG ADULT FEMALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Abigail Kippes 1542
2 Terissa Taylor 1442
YOUNG ADULT MALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Gustav Meeker 1072
YOUTH FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Reese Peterson 1648
2 Haidyn Mosset 1635
3 Sloan Stoltz 1598
4 Makenzie Vogel 1595
YOUTH MALE FREESTYLE
1 Zakary Golden 1647
2 Kort Solomonson 1631
3 Chase Prindle 1607
4 Xander Taylor 1606
5 Chase Saunier 1575
6 Abel Vollmers 1570
YOUTH FEMALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Shaylan Steeley 1632
YOUTH MALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Thomas Parent 1527
YOUTH FEMALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Sarah Hwang 1383
CUB FEMALE FREESTYLE
1 Brielle Mosset 1580
CUB MALE FREESTYLE
1 Gabriel Davis 1681
2 Jace Golden 1622
CUB FEMALE BOWHUNTER FREESTYLE
1 Grace Coffey 1584
2 Georgia Glitsos 1541
CUB MALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Ella Phillips 1445
CUB FEMALE BAREBOW
1 Ava Li 1354
CUB FEMALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Ember Frigon 1356
CUB MALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Eeshwar Kollu 1201
Trent Withers 1292
ADULT FEMALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Catalina Herrera 1145
ADULT MALE FREESTYLE LIMITED RECURVE
1 Lalit Jain 1334
ADULT FEMALE BAREBOW RECURIVE
1 Christina Lyons 1177
2 Archana Kongara 890
ADULT MALE BAREBOW RECURVE
1 Joel Turner 1265
2 Nicholas Ferguson 914
3 Vincent Harl 860
ADULT FEMALE TRADITIONAL
1 Sandy Mccain 1094
ADULT MALE TRADITIONAL
1 Michael Taylor 838
2 Garrick Meeker 623
ADULT FEMALE LONGBOW
1 Kelly Eagleton 1029
ADULT MALE LONGBOW
1 Clifton Montgomery 1123
2 Robert Ayotte 998
3 Gary Mccain 890
4 Samuel Sanchez 615
MASTER SENIOR FEMALE FREESTYLE
Patty Hoppe 1377
MASTER SENIOR MALE FREESTYLE 1 Larry Butterfield 1465
Bill Myers 1432 3 Steven Gibbs 1428 4 Roger Wilson 1415 5 Daniel G Craft 1394 6 Tim Routon 1390
Walter Smith 1382 8 Edward Christman 1374 9 Ronald
National Leagues
Since its inception in 2022, the NFAA National League has become an increasingly popular and accessible way for archers to compete on a national level. By offering flexible formats and online score submissions, the leagues allow archers of all skill levels to participate, regardless of location. These National Leagues are a unique opportunity for members to stay competitive and track their progress throughout the year, with a variety of events catering to different types of archery disciplines.
National Indoor League (Winter and Fall)
• Winter League: Took place over 12 weeks from January 1 to March 24. Archers were required to submit their top four scores from the Vegas round and the NFAA blue/white 300 round.
• Fall League: For the first time, a second edition of the National Indoor League was offered in 2024, running for 10 weeks from September 1 to November 10. Archers were afforded the chance to hone their skills during the Fall months in preparation for the Winter indoor season. Similar to the Winter league, participants were required to submit four Vegas round scores and four NFAA blue/white 300 round scores.
National Outdoor League (Summer)
• Field League: Spanning 12 weeks from June 3 to August 25, this league required archers to submit three scores each from three different rounds: Field Rounds, Hunter Rounds, and Animal Rounds.
• Target League: Also spanning 12 weeks from June 3 to August 25, archers were required to submit four 900 Target Round scores and four NFAA Classic 600 Round scores.
Along with medals and champion belt buckles, the National Leagues offer exciting rewards and incentives for participants. Every competitor is entered into a drawing for free registration entries to NFAA events or $50 gift cards. Four winners were selected from each of the three editions in 2024, providing multiple opportunities to win throughout the year.
Participants like Bonnie Terribilini and Love Casanova highlighted the National League’s camaraderie and impact on their practice routines. Terribilini shared, “There is a good sense of camaraderie and friendly competition amongst us. We come to know each other well and cheer each other on. Having (the) league each week keeps me on a consistent schedule and encourages practice in between.” Casanova added, “I don’t always get to attend the National Shoots. So this is a great way for me to see where I stand against my Silver Senior Female Freestyle friends.”
The NFAA National Leagues not only provide individual archers with valuable competitive opportunities, they also benefit clubs and shops. Eligible NFAA clubs and shops receive lucrative hosting rebates as an incentive to encourage local archery centers to actively support and promote the National Leagues. These rebates help clubs and shops offset their operational costs while fostering growth within the sport. Peter McCormick of East River Archery reflected on the event following a remarkable turnout for their club in Florida. “I encouraged all of our archers to compete in the National League because it is a high volume of shooting during our season (...) I feel it had a positive impact on my archers’ shooting.”
The flexibility of the NFAA National Leagues, with archers able to compete from their local ranges or during NFAA tournaments, has been key to their success. Participants can track their progress, refine their skills in different disciplines, and compete against others in both indoor and outdoor formats. The variety of rounds and the multiple seasons throughout the year provide ample opportunities for both seasoned archers and newcomers to engage and improve their abilities.
Indoor Winter League: 1/1/24-3/24/24
Name Division Score Xs
1 Jill Butler AFBBR 2055 51
2 Cindy Graham AFBBR 1956 42
3 Amy Rayner-Cooley AFBBR 1656 23
Adult Female Bowhunter Freestyle - Flight 1
1 Stacey Gros AFBHFS 2378 222
2 Marissa Scalzo AFBHFS 2373 216
3 Jessica Kleine AFBHFS 2370 248
Adult Female Bowhunter Freestyle - Flight 2
1 Patricia Lee AFBHFS 2234 105
2 Thovatey Tep AFBHFS 2234 100
3 Caroline Dearman AFBHFS 2231 122
1 Heather Stewart AFFS 2397 312
2 Marisa Graveen AFFS 2392 256
3 Katherine Krebs AFFS 2383 252
1 Aurora Tong AFFSL 1650 22
1 Alexandria Zuleta-Visser AFFSLR 2361 182
2 Catherine Wilson AFFSLR 2238 107
3 Julia Eckhoff AFFSLR 2151 45
1 Lisa Rodriguez AFLB 1340 11
1 Matthew Oh AMBB 1598 11
1 Marcus Cooley AMBBR 2227 94
2 Mark Hill AMBBR 2187 76
3 Larry Butler AMBBR 2182 82
Adult Male Bowhunter Freestyle - Flight 1
1 Edwin Mitchell AMBHFS 2399 297
2 Justin Mathews AMBHFS 2392 313
3 Adam Winner AMBHFS 2388 202
Adult Male Bowhunter Freestyle - Flight 2
1 Reginald Coballes AMBHFS 2310 141
2 Eric Thompson AMBHFS 2289 162
3 Jeremy Kroon AMBHFS 2288 138
1 Daniel Stafford CXBM 1813 27
Adult Male Freestyle - Flight 1
1 David Lamont AMFS 2400 345
2 Noah Eisenhardt AMFS 2399 303
3 Sean Royster AMFS 2398 318
Adult Male Freestyle - Flight 2
1 Nick Moberg AMFS 2386 282
2 Luis Morales AMFS 2382 270
3 Jose Velasquez-Mendoza AMFS 2373 212
Adult Male Freestyle - Flight 3
1 Kenneth Redding AMFS 2358 216
2 Nathan Moody AMFS 2340 194
3 Richard Ramos AMFS 2339 157
1 Eric Tong AMFSL 2054 67 Adult Male
1 Riley Tateyama YAFFSLR 2289 149
2 Emma Bailey YAFFSLR 2192 81 3 Kira Charran YAFFSLR 2148 64
The National Field Archery Association (NFAA), in partnership with the NFAA Foundation, is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Sectional Travel Scholarship! These scholarships were designed to empower and encourage young talent in archery. One boy and one girl from each NFAA Section was chosen to receive a $500 travel scholarship and a complimentary junior entry fee to an eligible NFAA or NFAA Foundation event. The travel scholarship is a stipend used to cover any travel expenses incurred by the athlete including travel, accommodations, or meals required to attend a future NFAA or NFAA Foundation event.
The NFAA is pleased to congratulate the following students from each section as this year’s winners:
• Female Recipient: Jennifer Baker - Commerce City, CO New England Section
• Female Recipient: Miranda Meighen - Bozrah, CT
We extend our congratulations to all applicants for their hard work and dedication to the sport of archery!
Innaugural nfaa pro schoLArship
The National Field Archery Association (NFAA) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 NFAA Professional Division Scholarship. This prestigious award, funded by the NFAA Professional Division, is an annual scholarship presented to one male and one female archer aged between 15 and 18. Each recipient receives $1000 towards their secondary education.
Wyatt ridgeway
Rendyn Brooks
The NFAA Pro Scholarship is designed to support high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors who are actively engaged in competitive archery. Applications were accepted from January 1st to April 30th, with winners being notified on July 30th. Scholarship funds will be released directly to the institution of higher education once the individual is enrolled.
Required Submission Materials
• Personal statement
• Shooter résumé detailing archery involvement at the local and/or state level
• Letter outlining community involvement and/or job experience
• At least one letter of recommendation
• Most recent high school transcript
• Current photograph
Selection Process
Applications are vetted by the NFAA Executive Secretary for completeness. Those in good standing are reviewed by a committee including the NFAA President, NFAA Pro Chairman, and three professional archers selected by the NFAA Pro Chairman.
The NFAA Pro Scholarship is an invaluable opportunity for young archers to further their education while continuing to excel in their sport. We are proud to support the next generation of archery talent.
Rendyn Brooks, from Grandview, TX, began her archery journey at the age of nine, initially viewing it as a fun activity with her dad. Over the past eight years, this casual hobby has evolved into a deep passion and a successful career in national competitive archery. Rendyn has excelled in numerous tournaments, earning accolades such as the 2023 ASA Shooter of the Year in the Women’s K-40 division and setting multiple state and national records. Her dedication to the sport is matched by her commitment to her community, where she actively volunteers, coaches young archers, and serves as an officer in her school’s National Honor Society and FFA chapter. Balancing her rigorous training with academic and extracurricular responsibilities, Rendyn is determined to continue her archery journey through college at Texas A&M University, where she plans to study mechanical engineering with the dream of designing archery equipment.
Male Recipient: Wyatt Ridgeway, Grade 12, Castle Rock, CO;
Wyatt Ridgeway is an 18-year-old archer from Colorado who has been passionately competing in archery since the age of 9. Diagnosed with Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome, Wyatt turned to archery as a non-contact sport, finding not just a hobby but a lifelong passion. He has competed in over 30 NFAA tournaments, as well as USA Archery and local events, where he has honed his skills and made lasting friendships.
As Wyatt prepares to attend Montana State University to pursue a business degree, he plans to continue his archery journey, even though the university doesn’t have an archery program. Beyond his accomplishments in archery, Wyatt is actively involved in community service through 4-H, FFA, and NHS, where he demonstrates leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact.
We extend our congratulations to all applicants for their hard work and dedication. We wish you the best of luck in your future academic and archeryrelated endeavors.
“We’re thrilled to congratulate the winners of the first-ever 2024 NFAA Professional Division Scholarship! These talented young archers have not only shown incredible skill and dedication to archery but have also made a real impact in their communities,” said NFAA Pro Chairman Chance Beaubouef. “Their work in promoting archery and staying engaged locally is truly impressive. We’re so proud of all the applicants and winners for their hard work and passion, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve next, both in school and in archery. Congratulations and best of luck!”
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!
Alain Pinto
Gayle
Colton
OUTDOOR NATIONAL FIELD RECORDS
NAME DIVISION CODE STATE ROUND YEAR SCORE
Paige Pearce PFFS CA Hunter 2024 558
Paige Pearce PFFS CA HunterX 2024 651
Taylor Spoolstra PMFS OK Field 2024 560
Kyle Douglas PMFS UT Hunter 2024 560
Robert Householder PMFS AL Hunter 2024 560
Bodie Turner PMFS WA Hunter 2024 560
Mike Schloesser PMFS NED Hunter 2024 560
Melanie White SSPFFS FL Animal 2024 571
Melanie White SSPFFS FL Field 2024 536
Melanie White SSPFFS FL FieldX 2024 590
Melanie White SSPFFS FL Hunter 2024 534
Melanie White SSPFFS FL HunterX 2024 584
Jeff Button SSPMFS WI Animal 2024 577
Robert Anderson SSPMFS IL Animal 2024 577
Michael Leiter SSPMFS MD Field 2024 544
Michael Leiter SSPMFS MD Hunter 2024 551
Deanna Cronin SFFS AZ Animal 2024 578
Thomas Ramsbacher SSMBBR TX Animal 2024 519
Thomas Ramsbacher SSMBBR TX Field 2024 386
Thomas Ramsbacher SSMBBR TX Hunter 2024 422
Joseph Pfannenstein SSMFSL MN Animal 2024 568
Alan Eagleton SSMTRAD CA Hunter 2024 431
Shannon Steeley YAFBHFS OK Animal 2024 566
Shannon Steeley YAFBHFS OK Hunter 2024 524
Gracen Fletcher YAFFS IN Field 2024 552
Abigail Kippes YAFFSLR AZ Field 2024 487
Abigail Kippes YAFFSLR AZ Hunter 2024 498
Gustav Meeker YAMBBR CA Animal 2024 438
Gustav Meeker YAMBBR CA Field 2024 308
Gustav Meeker YAMBBR CA Hunter 2024 326
Jack Moorhouse YAMBHFS MN Animal 2024 570
Shaylan Steeley YFBHFS OK Animal 2024 573
Shaylan Steeley YFBHFS OK Hunter 2024 532
OUTDOOR NATIONAL TARGET RECORDS
NAME DIVISION STATE ROUND YEAR SCORE X
Kelly Eagleton AFLB CA 600 2024 348 0
Kelly Eagleton AFLB CA 900 2024 681 4
Kelly Eagleton AFLB CA TOTAL 2024 1029 4
Owen Frohmader AMFS WI 600 2024 595 29
Jacob McArthur AMFS SD 900 2024 897 52
Jacob McArthur AMFS SD TOTAL 2024 1491 79
Clifton Montgomery AMLB TX 600 2024 423 3
Clifton Montgomery AMLB TX 900 2024 700 6
Clifton Montgomery AMLB TX TOTAL 2024 1123 9
Ava Li CFBB MA 600 2024 490 3
Ava Li CFBB MA 900 2024 808 17
Ava Li CFBB MA TOTAL 2024 1298 20
Ember Frigon CFBBR CAN 600 2024 461 0
Ember Frigon CFBBR CAN 900 2024 743 6
Ember Frigon CFBBR CAN TOTAL 2024 1204 6
Teekshika Vedantham CFFSLR IL 900 2024 867 32
Teekshika Vedantham CFFSLR IL TOTAL 2024 1427 46
Eeshwar Kollu CMBBR TX 600 2024 455 2
Eeshwar Kollu CMBBR
OUTDOOR NATIONAL TARGET RECORDS CONTinued
Thomas
Thomas
Thomas
Shannon Steeley YAFBHFS OK 600 2024 573 14
Shannon Steeley YAFBHFS OK 900 2024 879 35
Shannon Steeley
Marla Rupar
Marla Rupar
Marla Rupar
Abigail Kippes
Drew
Drew
Gustav
Gustav
Lizzie
Lizzie
Lizzie
Shaylan Steeley YFBHFS OK
usa archers at the olympics recurve individual highlight
Brady Ellison: A Historic Showdown at the Paris Olympics
Brady Ellison, one of archery's greatest athletes, made history at the Paris Olympics. Currently holding the world record with a score of 702/720 at 70 meters, Ellison has five Olympic medals to his name. But it was his performance in Paris, particularly in the gold medal match, that captivated the world.
Ellison qualified with a score of 677, ranking 7th, but quickly shifted into a higher gear during the elimination rounds. With laser-like focus, he cruised through the matches, ultimately earning a spot in the gold medal showdown.
There, he faced Kim Woojin, widely regarded as one of the best archers in the world. The match was a nail-biter from start to finish. Brady won the first set, Kim took the second, Brady won the third, and Kim the fourth. Tied 4-4, both archers shot perfect 30/30 scores in the final set, sending the match to a dramatic one-arrow shoot-off.
In an unforgettable moment, both men shot nearly identical arrows. After a tense measurement, Kim Woojin claimed gold by mere millimeters, but it was clear to all that both men were champions. Ellison’s performance in Paris will be remembered as one of the greatest in Olympic archery history.
Brady Ellison’s Bracket
Q & A - Brady Ellison
What was your "breakthrough" moment during these Games?
My defining moment in Paris was I think finally accepting the fact that I was on my own and I didn’t have a men’s team. I put so much energy and all I could into the team and thinking about having a team at the games that it took a long time to get that out of my head. Once we were at the games I knew it was going to take a little to settle down and figure things out and coach Webster and I had a training plan for the games and what we were going to do no matter what. After the ranking round everything started to fall into place and winning the medal in mixed teams early then I didn’t have anything to do for a long time because of the schedule. I was on one of the last days so I just hung out worked on the plan and put the hammer down with it was my turn. This ended up being a fun event. Coach Webster kept me focused and I had my best Olympic performance.
What was the role of your team and support system?
My support system has always been great. The whole team at the games was awesome and we had fun. I had my wife and kids there and some family as well. I couldn’t have done it without them truly. Moving forward now is going to be harder because I lost both my papa and grandma after the games. They were the ones who drove me all across the country and took me to events when I first started and have gone to everything!!!! I miss them!
If you could swap sports for a day with any other Olympian, who would you choose and why?
I think I would swap with any of the Skelton people in the Winter Olympics. I think going face first down a ice slide at 80mph would be amazingly fun
usa archery mix team event
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA’s Brady Ellison and Casey Kaufhold delivered a thrilling performance in the recurve mixed archery event, securing the bronze medal after a series of matches. The pair entered the competition with a strong start, ranking 3rd in the qualification rounds and positioning themselves well for the elimination stages. In the semi-finals, they faced Germany in a fiercely contested match but narrowly missed out on a spot in the final. Undeterred, Ellison and Kaufhold regrouped for the bronze medal match against India, where, with just one shot left, they remained composed and clinched the victory, earning a well-deserved place on the podium. This bronze medal was a significant achievement for both archers—Ellison adding to his Olympic legacy and Kaufhold solidifying her place as one of the sport’s rising stars. Their performance in Paris showcased not only their technical skill but also their teamwork and resilience under pressure, making them one of the standout pairs of the Games.
Q & A - casey kaufhold
Does winning your first medal make you feel you could be more relaxed when the next Olympics come around?
Winning my first Olympic medal definitely relieves some pressure going into LA 2028. Now that I've accomplished it, I know the mindset it takes.
It makes me more confident and comfortable to do it again.
We know athletes make huge sacrifices, but some of them are far less obvious. What’s something that’s hard to explain to people who aren’t athletes?
Something difficult to explain to people who aren't athletes are the emotional highs and lows in sport. At times there will be a streak of hard times and losses, but sometimes the feeling of winning can be positively overwhelming. I invest a lot emotionally into archery, and there are ups and downs to the life of an athlete.
If there was an Olympic event for the best “celebrity cameo” during the Games, who would be your dream supporter to show up in your corner?
My dream supporter to show up in my corner would be Jason Kelce. I am a huge fan of his and his message. He shows great drive and is a superb example of the athlete I want to be. Also as an Eagles fan, I would be so pumped if he was able to watch one of my matches in person.
FIND OUR FULL SCHEDULE HERE!
USA Coach - Chris Webster
usa womens recurve team
catalina gnoriega
casey kaufhold
jennifer mucino-fernandez
BRADY ELLISON
IFAA World Field ARchery Championships
The 2024 IFAA World Field Archery Championships (WFAC) took place from August 5-9 in the stunning setting of Iguazu, Brazil. The United States team, comprised of 23 dedicated archers, immersed themselves in the breathtaking scenery of the tropical forests and the warm Brazilian culture. Competing alongside archers from around the globe, they not only showcased their skills but also forged lasting friendships, making the experience even more memorable. The camaraderie and shared passion for the sport highlighted the spirit of international competition and unity.
The WFAC featured a comprehensive shooting format that included field, hunter, animal, field, and hunter rounds over the five days. After an intense competition involving 476 arrows, nine American archers proudly claimed their spots atop the podium. Their remarkable performances not only showcased their skills, but also underscored the strength and determination of the U.S. team in this prestigious international event.
Chris Bruntsch – Professional Male Freestyle Unlimited
Kelly Eagleton – Veteran Female Longbow
NFAA introduces Collegiate divisions
The National Field Archery Association (NFAA) officially launched Collegiate Archery divisions for all college archers, whether they were part of a college team, a student club, or individual competitors.
Bruce Cull, NFAA Executive Director, shared his excitement, stating, “This new Collegiate opportunity built on the involvement we already saw at major events like The Vegas Shoot. We wanted to offer a wider range of events for both the NFAA and NFAA Foundation throughout the school year. Our goal was to keep college-age students engaged in our events at an affordable rate, allowing them to compete for traditional NFAA awards and prizes while also representing their colleges or universities. We were also thrilled to expand the number of scholarships we provide for college students.”
Collegiate archers were able to register for NFAA and NFAA Foundation events with the COLLEGIATE ADD-ON. Whether they were seasoned pros or just starting out, there was a division for everyone.
Participants could compete in both their regular NFAA division (like Adult Male Freestyle) and their collegiate division. Even NFAA Professional archers who qualified for the collegiate division could compete in both their Pro and collegiate divisions.
For $35 a year, members enjoyed all the benefits of NFAA membership, including access to sectional and national events, awards, and scholarships. NFAA Professional or Life members could add a collegiate membership at no extra cost. Memberships were valid until July 31 each year, aligning with the academic calendar, and could be renewed 60 days before expiration.
NFAA Collegiate Archery was open to full-time students at two- or four-year colleges, universities, and technical schools. Undergraduates needed to be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, while graduate students required at least 9 credit hours. First-term students were welcome but needed to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 for undergraduates and 3.0 for graduates. Transfer students who met these criteria were also eligible.
NFAA Collegiate Archery connected members with fellow archery enthusiasts and provided a platform to compete, improve skills, and gain recognition, with a simple membership process and ample resources available.
JASON FEVELLA MILILANI, HAWAII
The NFAA proudly announces Jason Fevella of Mililani, Hawaii, as the esteemed recipient of the 2023 NFAA Member of the Year Award.
This prestigious accolade celebrates Jason's outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to the sport of archery. Selected from a pool of remarkable nominees, Jason emerged as a frontrunner due to his passion and commitment within the archery community. His tireless efforts have significantly elevated the archery experience for enthusiasts at his local club and beyond.
Keohokea K Cordeira, one of the heartfelt nominators, aptly described Jason as the "cornerstone" of their public range, where he tirelessly champions safety and inclusivity. Often referred to as "Mr. Aloha," Jason's warm demeanor and unwavering support for young archers have fostered a welcoming environment that nurtures growth and camaraderie.
Terrance O'Shea echoed Cordeira's sentiments, highlighting Jason's remarkable initiative in enhancing the infrastructure of their local range. With boundless dedication, Jason spearheads construction projects and diligently maintains facilities, all fueled by his unwavering passion and personal investment. Moreover, Jason's visionary leadership extends statewide, as he orchestrates tournaments and serves as the epitome of professionalism and sportsmanship.
In addition to his remarkable volunteerism at the grassroots level, Jason assumes the crucial role of Hawaii State Director, embodying the essence of an archery ambassador. His exemplary conduct and steadfast advocacy resonate deeply with the NFAA's mission to foster a thriving archery community nationwide. "Jason epitomizes the spirit of excellence and selflessness that defines our most esteemed members," remarked Erika Jones, NFAA Outreach Project Manager. "His unwavering commitment to enhancing the archery experience for all embodies the core values we hold dear. We are immensely proud to honor Jason with this well-deserved recognition."
As the 2023 NFAA Member of the Year, Jason stands as a beacon of inspiration, igniting passion and camaraderie within the archery community. His legacy of service and sportsmanship will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of archery for generations to come. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Jason receives a personalized plaque and $200 in NFAA credit, which he can utilize towards membership fees and event registrations. This additional token of appreciation further underscores the NFAA's profound gratitude for Jason's exemplary service.
How did you get started in archery and how long have you been involved with Archery?he sport?
Back in 1975, 49 years ago, my best friend as a kid growing up bought a bow from the local archery shop on Maui. The shop was closing, and his family bought him all the top gear in the closeout sale. My folks took me to the local Woolworth store when I told them how I wanted to shoot too and bought me an Indian Archery compound bow and wooden shaft arrows. The two of us through his family joined the Valley Isle Archery and Hunt Club on Maui and spent the rest of our childhood free time on the range and bow hunting on the island.
How has your involvement in the sport changed over the years?
I have always been a pin shooter, so my technique hasn’t changed over the years, but the equipment and technology in has grown tremendously.
What is your favorite thing about archery?
My favorite thing about archery is mentoring the new people that come to the range and watching them have fun. It reminds me of the joy I had as a kid back in Maui.
What is your fondest archery memory?
Back in 1989 there were three of us local boys from Maui that went to the tournament in Redding, California. We heard so much about it, we’d really built it up in our minds. Part of the big excitement was shooting with and against the people we admired. The three of us had a blast and I won the novelty shoot that year.
Which type of archery are you the most passionate about and why?
Field archery, hosting tournaments and creating novelty shoots are my favorite types and things to do. With the club here, we build fun novelty shoots to challenge experienced shooters, but make it fun for those just getting started. It’s fun to watch people step up to the challenge of shooting something besides the standard paper or 3D animals that present both a mental and skills challenge.
Who would you say has been your greatest archery mentor?
I have always looked up to the great shooters like Dean Pridgen, Terry Ragsdale, Frank Person, Bernie Pelletier, and Mike Leiter.
What would you say is your greatest contribution to the sport thus far?
Bringing the Aloha spirit to archery has been how I live my life. There are three parts to that aloha spirit: welcoming new and old friends into the sport, perpetuating the sport through being an advocate, and giving my time to maintain and update the ranges we have here. I pass on that need to those I mentor too, making sure as much as they enjoy it, they have the responsibility and obligation to extend that same Aloha spirit to others to perpetuate the passion I have forward.
Where would you like to see archery in the next 10 years and what do you think are the next steps for getting there?
Over the next 10 years will be the turning over of the responsibility to extend and perpetuate the sport to others. We need to have more and more youth engaged in the sport through school, recreational community education, and offer greater collegiate competitions with scholarships. Exposure through YouTube and other online media has been great in the US for extending the sport, but more coverage and greater media exposure to promote the positive benefits of the sport will go a long way in growing national attention to field archery.
What is a fun fact about you that most people wouldn't know?
When I am not at the archery range, I sometimes find my way to the golf course where I have a single digit handicap.
CINNAMON CREEK RANCH
roanoke, texas
The NFAA is proud to name Cinnamon Creek Ranch of Roanoke, Texas as the 2023 NFAA Club of the Year. This esteemed accolade honors the club’s unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving archery community and promoting the values of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Nominated by members of the archery community, Cinnamon Creek Ranch emerged as a beacon of excellence, renowned for its inclusive and supportive environment.
Lillian McHalffey, one of the nominators, emphasized the club’s familial atmosphere, where every member is embraced with warmth and encouragement. She remarked, “Cinnamon Creek Ranch cultivates a strong family-like community that extends a welcoming hand to all, regardless of background. Their dedication to assisting fellow archers with equipment, techniques, and support is unparalleled. Their kindness and talent are truly exceptional.”
Steve Jones echoed McHalffey’s sentiments, attributing his personal success in archery to the nurturing environment provided by Cinnamon Creek Ranch. He praised the club for its role in enhancing his skills and facilitating his participation in competitive archery. Beyond individual growth, Jones highlighted the club’s significant contributions to advancing the sport and fostering a sense of community among archers.
Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s remarkable dedication to the growth and promotion of archery is exemplified through its diverse programs and engaging events. Given this dedication, it is clear that Cinnamon Creek Ranch sets the standard for excellence in archery community engagement and development. “Cinnamon Creek Ranch embodies the spirit of what it means to be a distinguished NFAA club,” remarked Erika Jones, NFAA Outreach Project Manager. “Their unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity, excellence, and community within the archery world is truly commendable. We are honored to recognize Cinnamon Creek Ranch as the 2023 NFAA Club of the Year.”
Cinnamon Creek Ranch continues to pave the way for archery clubs nationwide, enriching the lives of countless archers and embodying the values of the NFAA. In recognition of their outstanding achievements, Cinnamon Creek Ranch receives a personalized award plaque and $200 in NFAA credit to be used toward club membership/certification fees and/or at the NFAA store to purchase awards, supplies, and more. This token of appreciation underscores the NFAA’s deep gratitude for the club’s invaluable contributions and provides support for future endeavors.
1. When was Cinnamon Creek Ranch formed and how has the Club evolved over the years?
Cinnamon Creek Ranch started in 2008 as owners Joe and Nola Musacchio relocated their growing meat processing plant to an 80acre ranch in Roanoke, Texas. Soon after, they added a professional archery shop and indoor shooting range as well as outdoor 3D ranges, a static range, and a golf course-style archery range consisting of nine stations and 36 targets.
As archery evolved in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Cinnamon Creek Ranch hosted numerous archery tournaments and events to include NFAA 5-spot tournaments and 3D tournaments. Thanks to the efforts of the Texas Field Archery Association (TFAA), archery’s popularity surged locally. The influx of new archers soon outgrew the capacity of the indoor ranges, prompting the construction of a 12,000 square foot event center in 2017. This new addition not only accommodated larger tournaments, but also diversified the types of events Cinnamon Creek Ranch could host.
2. What types of events and/or programs does Cinnamon Creek Ranch offer?
Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s motto is “Where the future of archery begins.” With that in mind, there are numerous programs aimed at introducing youth to archery. Every Monday night Cinnamon Creek Ranch holds Kid’s League where beginning and intermediate youth shooters participate in partial 5-Spot rounds for score. Kids are provided Genesis bows and instruction on the fundamentals of shooting in a fun yet challenging environment. Kids earn various pins the higher they score, recognizing their achievements in improving their archery skills. Many kids that got their start at Kid’s League have won national NFAA tournaments, set new national records, and competed at the Championship level in NFAA tournaments. More importantly, archery has led to many of our kids earning scholarships or being accepted to college archery programs.
During the summer months, Cinnamon Creek Ranch hosts Kid’s Camp where activities are centered around the outdoors and archery. Each week a new group of kids spend four days at Cinnamon Creek Ranch where they are immersed in the fundamentals of archery under the watchful eye of experienced instructors.
Twice each week Cinnamon Creek Ranch also hosts “Introduction to Archery” classes for all ages. Class participants spend 90 minutes learning archery fundamentals. Cinnamon Creek Ranch also offers a range of private archery lessons from the beginner’s level to advanced archers. For the experienced archer, the Pro Shop offers a vast number of new and later model bows. Their expert technicians assist archers of all skill levels set up and tune their equipment to give them the best chance of success in the field and during tournaments.
Our Staff Shooters have hosted classes to teach new archers about different aspects of archery. An example is the “Introduction to Field Archery” class which exposed new archers to the rules and fundamentals of field archery rounds. The main goal of this class was to introduce field archery in a classroom environment so archers could learn the rules before shooting an actual tournament and realize how fun field archery is.
3. How is Cinnamon Creek Ranch involved in the community and how does the club seek new members?
Besides archery tournaments, Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s Event Center has evolved into a multi-use facility that is used for corporate events, birthday parties, and other social gatherings. For many of these events, archery is a key activity event organizers can choose from for fun and team-building exercises. Each month Cinnamon Creek Ranch hosts “Couples by the Creek” where couples can enjoy dinner and fun with others with a new theme each month.
The heart of efforts to attract new members is the emphasis on getting kids involved in archery. Kids aged 12 and under shoot for free at all of Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s indoor ranges. Many kids that shoot our Monday night Kid’s League advance towards shooting TFAA tournaments. The Kid’s League shoots are a perfect introduction for kids to learn the basics of shooting tournaments, giving them the confidence and fundamentals needed before shooting TFAA’s Shoot Your Way Across Texas (SYWAT) 5-Spot tournaments.
A great byproduct of getting kids involved in archery is that their parents often pick up the sport to have fun and compete alongside their kids. Many of our adult shooters started archery after their kids began shooting.
We also host an Introduction to Archery class twice each week, where new archers can learn the fundamentals from an experienced coach in a group environment. In this class, students learn each step of the shot process using Genesis bows while being coached by a team of instructors.
Cinnamon Creek Ranch also has 60 Staff Shooters representing the club at local and national tournaments as well as helping execute many of the tournaments held at Cinnamon Creek Ranch. We have Staff Shooters from the Cub level up to the Master Senior archer. Our Staff Shooters are always keeping an eye out for new members by engaging with other shooters both at Cinnamon Creek Ranch and local tournaments. Our Staff Shooters are great ambassadors for the sport of archery, welcoming and encouraging beginning archers. They routinely help beginning archers with form, equipment, and rules questions and invite them to weekly practices so they can enjoy the camaraderie with more experienced archers. Our Staff Shooters enjoy engaging new shooters as much as they enjoy competing in tournaments.
4. What obstacles has Cinnamon Creek Ranch faced over the years and how were they overcome?
The largest obstacle for Cinnamon Creek Ranch has been continuing to find ways to grow and accommodate more archers both at the local and state level. This led to the building of the Event Center in response to local SYWAT tournament sizes exceeding the pro shop indoor range capacity. Cinnamon Creek Ranch has found that the Event Center is now reaching capacity limits as TFAA State Championship attendees continue to reach record-breaking levels each year. Cinnamon Creek Ranch has helped overcome capacity limits by offering up additional Friday and Saturday night shooting time options as well as utilizing the Pro Shop for Cub lines.
5. What do you believe is the reason behind the success of Cinnamon Creek Ranch?
The main driver for the success for Cinnamon Creek Ranch has been the focus on introducing youth to archery and helping them develop beyond the beginner level. The strong emphasis on introducing kids to archery has fueled the growth of not only Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s club members, but those of other shops in the area. Many kids travel more than an hour each Monday night just to have the opportunity to shoot at Kid’s League.
Another key reason Cinnamon Creek Ranch has enjoyed great success is the efforts of our Staff Shooters. Our shooters are often referred to as the “Orange Army” as many of them participate at local tournaments each week. While our Staff Shooters are competitive and always looking to shoot great scores, their main strength is being amazing ambassadors for archery and mentors to new shooters. They are very supportive of all archers and celebrate when others shoot personal best scores or win tournaments. Our Staff Shooters are also instrumental in helping TFAA executives run the TFAA State Championship each year.
6. What are the future plans for Cinnamon Creek Ranch?
The next venture for Cinnamon Creek Ranch is to restructure the outdoor facilities to accommodate new growth plus return to some of Cinnamon Creek Ranch’s original roots. The increased demand during the TFAA State Championship and NFAA Southern Sectionals requires greater parking capacity. Cinnamon Creek Ranch is relocating our outdoor static range to provide more parking closer to the Event Center and Pro Shop. We are also restructuring the layout of our 3D courses and bringing back the original 35 target course.
7. What is the best advice you could give to a new club trying to get started?
Without a doubt, invest in the kids! Getting kids involved in archery provides the foundation for growing the number of archers in the local area. Many parents become beginning archers along with their kids as well, further increasing the number of archers learning the sport. Also, provide events that introduce new archers to the sport in a safe and fun environment such as our Kid’s League, Kid’s Camp, and Introduction to Archery classes. Finally, recruiting and supporting a core group of shooters that will welcome and assist new shooters in the sport as our Staff Shooters have done will give beginning archers a friendly resource that will keep them engaged in archery long term.
8. Anything else you wish to add about the club?
Cinnamon Creek Ranch is honored to be selected as the NFAA Club of the Year! We appreciate the recognition our hard-working employees and shooters are receiving with this award.
2024 bowl photos
First Row: Abigail Kippes, Christopher Fong
Second Row: Brantley Lachecki, Ember Frigon
Third Row: Mandy Bogga, Medina Otajagic
Fourth Row: Bubba Bateman, Ava Li
2024Shooters of the Year
The NFAA recognizes every year the top archers with the Shooter of the Year title. Check out this year’s winners and get all the details on the award program.
To be eligible for Shooter of the Year (SOY), archers must compete in five major tournaments throughout the year: The Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor Nationals, First Dakota Classic, NFAA National Marked 3D, and NFAA Outdoor National Field. Points are accumulated across these events, with extra points awarded for X counts at The Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor Nationals, and the First Dakota Classic, or earned $250+ in an Adult or Senior Championship division.
The 2024 Winners are...
Paige Pearce: Professional Female Freestyle (5,749 points)
Kyle Douglas: Professional Male Freestyle (5,783 points)
Tim Gillingham: Professional Senior Male Freestyle (5,644 points)
Marcella Hebert: Amateur Female (5,351 points)
Jason Goedken: Amateur Male (5,523 points)
Special Mentions for Runner-Ups:
James Lutz: Professional Male Freestyle (5,768 points)
Benton Christensen: Professional Senior Male Freestyle (5,635 points)
Clayton Moore: Amateur Male (5,496 points)
Congratulations TO ALL THE ARCHERS WHO PARTICIPATED IN 2024!
Professional Details:
Categories: Male, Female, Senior Competitors must have participated in a Professional division or earned $250+ in an Adult or Senior Championship. A podium bonus is given based on placement in each event: 3 points for 1st, 2 for 2nd, and 1 for 3rd. Prize money varies by the number of professional memberships in each category.
Amateur Details
Categories: Male, Female Eligible archers must have competed in any of the following divisions: Flights, Adult, Senior, Cub, Youth, Young Adult, or Young Adult Championship. An award plaque is given to athletes that achieve this title.
2024 SOY Payouts
Professional Male Freestyle
Professional Female Freestyle
Senior Professional Male Freestyle
Amateur Male: Jason Goedken
Q: How long have you been competing in NFAA tournaments?
A: I would say prob 6 years.
Q: What or who inspired you to take up archery?
A: I got into archery through hunting. I started bowhunting at a young age and from there the archery side of it transitioned into local shoots for more hunting practice.
Q: What made you decide to make the move from local tournaments to national tournaments?
A: I would say mostly to increase the amount of competition. Local shoots are a great way to judge your skills to see if you could be competitive at a bigger scale. I was winning several local and state shoots, so I started traveling to national tournaments and haven’t really looked back. I like to be driven to be better. You can’t slack or go in weak to a national shoot and, that’s what I like.
Q: How do you train for a tournament?
A: Each tournament is different. I train based on the style of shoot to where I’m headed. I get serious about 30 days before I have to leave. I try to make sure that my equipment is ready so I can focus on myself, however that’s not always the case. I tend to start slow and increase arrow count the closer the tournament gets. I focus on technique and aim.
Q: What is your advice to archers who have never been to a tournament?
A: GO! You need to just go, but you have to be ready. Don’t go unprepared and have a bad outcome, be as prepared as you can. A bad experience will turn off more archers than it will bring back. Know your limitations and don’t expect more. Start slow and work your way up.
Q: Do you have a favorite experience over the past year that sticks out as memorable?
A: That’s a tough one. I take each tournament as an experience. I learn from them and try to capitalize at the next. I can’t say anything in particular sticks out to me as memorable this year. Each podium finish is memorable in its own way and I don’t rate one over the other.
Q: Thank you for participating in all five of the qualifying shoots! What’s your favorite tournament to attend and why?
A: Well, the NFAA does such a great job at all the shoots it’s hard to say. Each have their own perks. Anything indoors that doesn’t require a site tape is my favorite. Vegas is always fun because there’s so much to do there. First Dakota Classic is great because it’s a distance shoot indoors with no weather to deal with. Field is just a grind and taxing tournament that really tests your equipment and skills. Redding is just simply a beautiful place to shoot.
Amateur Female: Marcella Hebert
Q: How long have you been competing in NFAA tournaments?
A: I have been competing in NFAA tournaments for 21 years. The first year I competed was in 2004 as an 11-year-old at the Great Lakes Indoor Sectionals and Indoor National Championships.
Q: What or who inspired you to take up archery?
A: My Dad got me my first bow for Christmas in 1999 in hopes of taking me bow hunting someday. That winter, we joined a 4-H shooting sports program instructed by NFAA pro, Jeff Heeg. Originally, Dad saw this as an opportunity to get me formal archery instruction, as he was self-taught. It didn’t take long to fall in love with archery, competing in my first 4-H tournament in 2001.
Q: What made you decide to make the move from local tournaments to national tournaments?
A: Over the next few summers, we traveled around Wisconsin competing in 4-H tournaments. As my skills improved, I became more successful at the 4-H competitions. Jeff encouraged me to attend our WAA state tournament, where I shot my first 300. This personal best sparked my desire to continue competing and make the jump to national tournaments. Soon after, we were traveling as a family, and both my brothers and parents were competing as well.
Q: How do you train for a tournament?
A: When I get ready for a tournament, I focus a lot on my shot process and form. I keep an archery journal to document practice sessions and tournament performances, using my notes to evaluate what went well and what issues I need to work on. I try to practice the distances and format of the upcoming competition, double-checking sight tapes, and increasing my arrow count. I have always struggled with my mental game in tournaments, so that is a constant work-in-progress for me.
Q: What is your advice to archers who have never been to a tournament?
A: I was a 4-H archery instructor for a few years in college and would encourage people who had never been to a tournament to challenge themselves by trying something new. Don’t have too many expectations, and recognize you will be nervous, but just enjoy the experience. I would also encourage archers to try different types of tournaments (indoors, 3D/trail shoots, field, FITA, etc.) since you never know what you will like best!
Q: Do you have a favorite experience over the past year that sticks out as memorable?
A: Going to Redding has been on my bucket list for many years, and this Spring was my first time out there. The course was fun and challenging; I had never shot in that type of terrain before much less those distances. Hitting the dot on Big Foot was exciting however, it was the weather extremes and being trapped on a mountain in a hail storm that was most memorable!
Q: Thank you for participating in all five of the qualifying shoots! What’s your favorite tournament to attend and why?
A: Field tournaments have always been one of my favorite formats. I love being outdoors and walking the courses. The variety of distances, targets, and terrain makes those tournaments enjoyable. I have not been to Field Nationals at the Darrington or Mechanicsburg locations yet, but I look forward to making it out there someday. Although, I will say the trail shoots are becoming a close second!
Pro Female: Paige Pearce
Q: What or who inspired you to take up archery and why?
A: My parents shot archery for years and started me basically as soon as I could stand. We went to tournaments every weekend while I was growing up! I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t shooting a bow!
Q: What challenges have you faced during your archery career and how have you overcome them?
A: I’ve actually had a few! A few injuries (elbow and shoulder) and with both I just had to adjust a few things to get by. With my elbow I had to cut back a bit and learn to rotate my arm, and my shoulder I dropped my poundage quite a bit. I did do some rehab for both trying to build strength in other areas to help improve the issues.
Q: Do you have specific archery goals for 2025 and beyond?
A: My main goal every season is to keep improving my scores. I can’t control how the other girls shoot, but I can control how I perform. So, I work harder and harder every year to keep improving and then I hope that’s enough to keep me at the top.
Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about Professional archers?
A: Haha this is a good one! Well, I feel like people assume we are all rich and living the life. When, in reality, most of them are living with their parents, or barely scraping by just trying to get to events to hopefully break even. People also believe it’s a very glamorous lifestyle since we travel a lot, but over time that can really wear on you and your family. It makes it so hard to have a normal home life, to have a family, etc. And the last part is your income is never secure. You are competing against the other best people in the world all trying to earn a paycheck, but at the end of the day only one goes home with the big check. So it’s incredibly stressful competing for a living vs just working for a living. We are constantly sacrificing things to keep this dream alive. Don’t get me wrong I love it and wouldn’t trade it for the world, but it’s way harder and more stressful than people realize.
Q: How would you describe your physical and mental preparation during the offseason versus the tournament season?
A: Well, I don’t actually get an off season anymore. I used to when I was younger but since this became my full-time job, I usually only get October off (sometimes not even that). But I live about the same way when I’m actively competing as when I’m not. Physically I just try and stay in good shooting shape, meaning I can shoot a good number of arrows without fatiguing. The mental game is the most important part of archery, and that I am always working on. You can only get so good at shooting a bow, but you can always improve your mental game. So, I spend a lot of time working on that year-round as I know that’s the one thing I can keep improving year after year.
Q: What strategies do you use to keep your focus during high-pressure situations?
A: I really believe nothing tops experience. It really does make a difference because I know how I expect to feel in those situations. But I will sometimes focus on deep breathing, I’ll repeat phrases in my head or sometimes I’ll even sing a song. I truthfully don’t think the same thing every time when I am at full draw because every arrow and situation is different. But I just found a way to be in touch with that to hopefully do whatever will help me the most in that moment. When I’m at my best I’m basically thinking nothing while all full draw honestly.
Q: What is your favorite NFAA tournament on the Shooter of the Year circuit?
A: Aww this one is tough! I can’t choose between Redding and Field as I love them both for different reasons. I love Redding for the vibe and the atmosphere and for the fact that it is my home course, so I have so many friends there and incredible memories over the years. I actually like Field more for the shooting format. I believe the X as a 6 really separates the goods from the greats, and I love that format because you will be rewarded for having a great day!
Q: Is there a fun fact that most people don't know about you?
A: I actually played competitive fiddle for many years and was pretty good! Ultimately, archery won out, but I can still play to this day. I also played the flute and learned how to read music, whereas I learned to play the fiddle by ear.
Pro Male: Kyle Douglas
Q: What or who inspired you to take up archery and why?
A: My dad hunted with a bow when I was a kid which naturally made me take interest. My brother, a good friend, and myself joined a kids archery league when we were young and we’ve been addicted to archery ever since!
Q: What challenges have you faced during your archery career and how have you overcome them?
A: The biggest hurdle for me was winning my first professional tournament. I had won a bunch of tournaments regionally and podiumed at a professional level but struggled to break through and get the first win under my belt. At the start of indoor season one year I decided to completely change my entire shot process and go from a surprise release to shooting on command. I had to totally overhaul my mental game and start from scratch but it was the best thing I have done in my archery career. Not long after switching I won Vegas and it has been a whirlwind ever since.
Q: Do you have specific archery goals for 2025 and beyond?
A: My goal is always to win every event I attend but there are a few tournaments that I have yet to win which have been evading me. Redding and Lancaster will definitely be at the top of the list next season!
Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about Professional archers?
A: The biggest one I see is people think we are special or different from normal people and have special abilities. We are just regular people that have fallen in love with archery and have dedicated our life to the sport and the perfection of our craft. Sure, there are shooters that are naturally talented at certain things but we all have particular challenges we struggle with or are constantly working on. The difference between professional and amateur archers is we have figured out how to diagnose our own problems and implement a solution to fix them. Someone who is not able or willing to do this will always be stagnant at the same level and never improve. Professional archers have developed a system that works for their personal shooting style and have perfected it.
Q: How would you describe your physical and mental preparation during the offseason versus the tournament season?
A: Generally, the offseason lines up with hunting season and I like tospend as much time in the mountains hunting as possible. Hunting is a good way for me to decompress from the stress of tournament season and mentally reset before indoor tournaments begin. I also like to use this time to make form or equipment changes to ensure I have adequate time to adapt and perfect the new adjustments.
Q: What strategies do you use to keep your focus during high-pressure situations?
A: In high-pressure situations I do my best to redirect nervous energy and turn it into determination. Everyone gets nervous so instead of trying to calm yourself down you have to learn to expect the pressure and learn to shoot with it instead of trying to get it to go away. Over time I have recognized my tendencies when I am in high-pressure situations, and I will adjust my form or equipment to try and account for those and help me to shoot better under pressure.
Q: What is your favorite NFAA tournament on the Shooter of the Year circuit?
A: Although I generally like outdoor season more than indoors I would have to say Vegas is probably my favorite shoot of the year. It is the Superbowl of archery and I have had a pretty good history there as well!
Q: Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
A: Although I have a degree in mechanical engineering from Utah State University, I have yet to have a job as an engineer. I won Vegas just before finishing my last semester of college and that completely changed the course of my career by opening up a bunch of doors in the archery industry.
Senior Pro: Tim Gillingham
Q: What or who inspired you to take up archery and why?
A: I have always had a fascination with Indians and the bow and arrow. I also gravitated towards the sport because I got out of it what I put into it, and it was not a popularity contest like a lot of team sports.
Q: What challenges have you faced during your archery career and how have you overcome them?
A: Getting that first Pro win that got me over the top of the mountain. I knew I had the talent just needed to allow myself to win.
Q: Do you have specific archery goals for 2025 and beyond?
A: 2025 my plan is just to go out and represent my sponsors to the fullest. I’m cutting USA Archery events out because I see no incentive to really go, and I need some travel cut out of my schedule so I can be more prepared to win the events that matter most.
Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about Professional archers?
A: The biggest misconception is that you can truly shoot full time professional. You need to find a job or career that allows the travel or I think that it’ll be tough for you. I’ve said many times that I’ve won many tournaments because I went for it knowing the bills are already paid for by the job. It’s not easy to win at the highest level. It takes 100% commitment. It took me 20 years to win my first pro event.
Q: How would you describe your physical and mental preparation during the offseason versus the tournament season?
A: I pretty much just detox and hunt a little and don’t really get active until the end of October.
Q: What strategies do you use to keep your focus during high-pressure situations?
A: In high pressure you need a process of visualization to put you in the moment and calm your mind. Rehearse what you are GOING TO DO and not worrying about the negative things. It’s still the hardest thing to overcome and my biggest weakness.
Q: What is your favorite NFAA tournament on the Shooter of the Year circuit?
A: Field nationals by far. It truly rewards the best shooter. The other events are mainly mental.
Q: Is there a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
A: I have a soft spot for my daughter’s Dachshund.
NFAA Judge certification Program
Offers
new opportunities for growth
The launch of the NFAA Judge Certification Program in 2024 gives NFAA members the chance to become certified officials for local, sectional, and national tournaments. The program provides comprehensive training on NFAA tournament rules, procedures, round formats, and range setups. In its first year, the program was a resounding success, with 180 NFAA members earning Certified Judge status and 27 achieving National Judge certification.
Certified Judges complete an online course and pass a written exam, demonstrating their understanding of basic NFAA rules and the requirements for officiating NFAA tournaments. This certification is recommended for all local, state, and sectional events.
National Judges have fulfilled all the Certified Judge requirements and have shown exceptional leadership and expertise necessary for officiating at NFAA and NFAA Foundation national events. In the program’s first year, National-level certification was granted either by being grandfathered in through prior experience officiating a nonvirtual NFAA or NFAA Foundation national event since 2020, or by Certified Judges who shadowed National Judges at national events to gain the experience and insight needed for the certification. All NFAA Judges must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid NFAA membership.
NFAA President Brian Sheffler reflects on the inclusion of the Judge Certification Program, “50 years ago, to be an archery official, essentially all you needed to know was a little about the NFAA round and the scoring value of the target. Today, with the advancement of archery technology, Professional purses, college scholarships, and internationally-televised archery tournaments, the local, untrained official just isn’t enough. The NFAA is meeting that challenge with the development of a program for official Judges that will meet and understand the different disciplines of the NFAA archer.”
The introduction of the NFAA Judge Certification Program marks a significant milestone in the evolution of archery officiating, ensuring that officials are well-equipped to uphold the integrity and professionalism of NFAA events. By investing in the education and development of Certified and National Judges, the NFAA is fostering a higher standard of officiating and also supporting the continued growth of the sport as it reaches new heights in competitiveness and visibility. As the program expands in the coming years, it promises to provide a robust foundation for future generations of archery officials, helping to elevate the overall experience for both participants and spectators alike.
Learn more!
NFAA Compton Medal of Honor Recipient, Passes at 88 Jim Easton
James L. Easton, renowned for innovative sporting goods such as carbon-fiber arrows and aluminum baseball bats, was driven by a never-ending passion for excellence.
James (Jim) Easton passed away at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends. He was 88 years old. Jim, renowned for innovative sporting goods such as carbon-fiber arrows and aluminum baseball bats, was driven by a never-ending passion for excellence.
A True Friend of the NFAA
The National Field Archery Association mourns the passing of a true friend and an instrumental figure in the archery world, Jim Easton. In 2004, Jim was awarded the NFAA’s highest honor, the Compton Medal of Honor, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport. He was a steadfast supporter of the NFAA and the NFAA Foundation, a passion that went beyond mere affiliation — it was a commitment that shaped the future of archery.
Jim did a lot for the NFAA, especially for young archers. He helped our youth bowhunting programs grow, making sure kids had a chance to learn archery from the start. His work made a big difference in many young people’s lives. Perhaps one of Jim’s most significant contributions to the NFAA was his role in the NFAA’s acquisition of The Vegas Shoot. His insight and support were key in transforming this event into the prestigious tournament it is today, often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Archery.” The Vegas Shoot has become a cornerstone event, thanks in no small part to Jim’s foresight and support.
Jim’s philanthropy was equally evident in his support for the establishment of the first Easton Archery Center in Yankton, South Dakota. His dedication to the sport’s growth culminated in this center, which not only serves as the home of the NFAA headquarters but has also become a hub for archery enthusiasts and elite athletes alike. The center stands as a testament to his commitment to nurturing talent and building communities through archery. The NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center is a physical representation of Jim’s belief in the transformative power of archery. It is a place where archers can train, compete, and share their love for the sport.
tournament
As we reflect on Jim Easton’s remarkable life, we do so with gratitude for his unwavering support and deep history with our organization. His memory will live on through the continued success of the programs and institutions he helped build, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of walking alongside him in the archery community.
A Look Back at Jim’s Legacy
As a young man in the 1950’s, Jim worked in his father’s archery shop by day and studied engineering at UCLA by night. Eventually, after five years at Douglas Aircraft, where he worked on the DC8 jetliner, Mr. Easton returned to the family business to help make the Easton company the world’s foremost innovator of sporting goods, such as ice hockey sticks, baseball bats, and arrow shafts used at the Olympic Games and worldwide.
Jim Easton’s deep involvement in archery is particularly credited with that sport being designated as a core Olympic Games event today. Mr. Easton had seen the products he developed transform every sport into which he delved. Even after becoming president of the international governing body for archery, and a member of the International Olympic Committee, Mr. Easton’s passion for excellence drove him to spend hours per week on his company’s shop floor, improving processes and rubbing elbows daily with his large staff of engineers.
As president of the World Archery Federation for 16 years from 1988 to 2004, Mr. Easton innovated new competition formats making archery a television-friendly sport, one of the most-watched during the London 2012 Olympic Games. Mr. Easton was elected to the International Olympic Committee in 1994. As IOC Vice-President, and as an Executive Board member, Mr. Easton worked hard to support the Olympic Games, having previously served as Archery Commissioner, Olympic Village Mayor, and Technology Commissioner for the highly successful 1984 Olympic Games. Mr. Easton was a board member of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and served on the Salt Lake Olympic Organizing Committee for the 2002 Winter Games.
Mr. Easton was born in Los Angeles on July 26, 1935, son of archery innovators Doug and Mary Easton. Doug Easton had built a business making highly crafted, custom archery gear, popular at the time with Hollywood luminaries such as Errol Flynn. Some of Jim Easton’s earliest memories involved helping his parents and younger brother build wooden aviation map cases for World War II Allied pilots.
Throughout high school, Mr. Easton was a competitive archer, taking a podium at a US Nationals in the 1950’s. After his return to the family business in the early 1960’s, he collaborated with his younger brother, world-renowned architect Robert (Bob) Easton, to create the first aluminum ski poles. He also developed a critical part of NASA’s lunar instrumentation for the Apollo manned lunar program.
Mr. Easton moved the company beyond archery into baseball and softball equipment, ice and field hockey equipment, tennis racquets, golf equipment, bicycles, and many other pursuits. But archery was always his dearest passion and pursuit. To that end, he was credited with the earliest development of carbon fiber for archery bows and arrows.
He met his wife, Phyllis, while creating technical literature to advance the sport of archery. Together they created numerous books and videos documenting the history of the sport in the Olympic Games, and oversaw philanthropic work benefiting UCLA and other institutions around the world.
In later years, two substantial sports development foundations, created with proceeds from his archery and team sports businesses, fulfilled Mr. Easton’s interests in philanthropy. In particular, Mr. Easton built numerous world-class archery centers for the advancement and teaching of the sport throughout the United States, and helped create a world level archery training center in Lausanne, Switzerland near the IOC headquarters.
Jim Easton was awarded the UCLA Medal in 2014, and made substantial contributions to UCLA, and Utah’s Huntsman Cancer Research Center, Intermountain Hospital Trauma Center, Primary Children’s Hospital and The National Ability Center.
His family-owned archery companies, Hoyt Archery, and Easton Technical Products, employ more than 400 workers in Utah and Indiana.
Mr. Easton is survived by his wife of 29 years, Phyllis, son Greg, daughter Lynn, and three grandchildren. The family will celebrate Jim’s life at a private memorial observance.
2024 Indoor Sectionals sees great growth & success!
The annual NFAA Indoor Sectional Championships wrapped up another exciting season earlier this year, bringing archery enthusiasts together nationwide. From January 6 to March 10, the 2024 event spanned 94 host locations, uniting competitors from across the country through their shared passion for archery.
This year’s event continued to feature the iconic NFAA blue/white 300 round, challenging archers with one or two rounds of skill and precision, depending on their section. Competitors’ scores from the first round were compiled into fresh national rankings, with top performers eyeing prizes like hotel stays and registration packages for future NFAA events. The archers who placed first in their division for national ranking were put into a raffle for prizes. The winners of the drawing were:
• Dewey Hathaway, who received free pre-registration and a hotel stay for the 2025 Indoor National Championships, along with a $50 NFAA store gift card.
• Logan Wong and Stacey Carmichael, each of whom won free pre-registration for a 2024 NFAA national or sectional event of their choice.
The championships saw tremendous growth compared to last year. In 2023, 76 locations hosted 2,356 archers, but 2024 saw an impressive increase to 94 locations with 2,705 archers. Every section saw an uptick in participation, with the Southwest leading the way with a notable 30% boost in registrations.
This year’s introduction of electronic scoring enhanced the competition experience, allowing for swift preliminary rankings and final scores. A competitor from the Southwest section shared their enthusiasm: “This year was great!!! Felt very ‘renewed,’ up-to-date, efficient. Looking forward to national standings, too, this year!”
Beyond the numbers, the NFAA Sectionals fostered a spirit of camaraderie, competition, and growth for archers at all levels. For those new to the scene, like a budding archer from the Southern section, the championships offered a transformative experience, igniting a passion for future tournaments; “It was my first tournament ever, and seeing all the competitors encouraged me to participate in more tournaments,” he shared.
With each year, the NFAA Indoor Sectionals continue to be a platform for archers to come together, test their skills, and fuel their passion for the sport.
Indoor Sectionals: National Rankings
Outdoor Sectionals: Key Moments & Achievements
The 2024 Outdoor Sectionals was hosted from May 4 to June 30 across 16 locations nationwide within the 8 NFAA sections. The event showcased the skills and dedication of archers from across the country, with nearly 350 participants taking part.
Archers competed in the classic NFAA Field, Hunter, and Animal rounds, with each section offering a unique event format. Some sections completed 14 targets for each round type, while others tackled 28 targets, providing a variety of challenges and allowing archers to demonstrate their diverse talents.
For national ranking purposes, only targets 1-14 from each Field, Hunter, and Animal round were considered, even if 28 targets were shot. This approach helped standardize rankings across the diverse event formats. The archers who placed first in their division for national ranking were put into a raffle for prizes. The winners of the drawing were:
• Maddie Pals, who received free pre-registration and a hotel stay for the 2025 Outdoor Field Nationals, along with a $50 NFAA store gift card.
• Ella Phillips and Robert Anderson, each of whom won free preregistration for any 2024-25 NFAA national or sectional event of their choice.
The continuation of national rankings and electronic scoring from the 2024 Indoor Sectionals was a standout feature of the Outdoor Sectionals. Electronic scoring ensured accurate and timely results, improving the overall efficiency and experience of the competition for both archers and event hosts.
The NFAA congratulates all participants and winners and thanks everyone involved for contributing to a successful and memorable 2024 Outdoor Sectionals.
Outdoor Sectionals: National Rankings
1 Bonnie England MSFBHFS 656
1 Patrick Coker MSMBB 722
2 Kenneth Liberton MSMBB 686
3 Shannon North MSMBB 346
1 Donald Wassall MSMBBR 581
2 Philip Yokiel MSMBBR 520
1 Ronald Turner MSMBHFS 809
2 Mike Orange MSMBHFS 785
1 Robert Webb MSMFS 819
2 Larry Butterfield MSMFS 811
3 David Townsend MSMFS 806
4 Jc Bradway MSMFS 805
5 Bill Myers MSMFS 803
6 Tim Grant MSMFS 802
7 Tom Coblentz MSMFS 795
8 Larry Ward MSMFS 784
1 Terry Witt MSMFSL 735
2 Tony DiDio MSMFSL 625
1 Mike McCarty MSMFSLR 684
2 Jerry Podratz MSMFSLR 561
1 Mike Palmer MSMTRAD 611
2 Richard Doria Jr. MSMTRAD 228
1 Wade McClanahan PMFS 915
2 Gregory Scott Scherer PMFS 913
3 Erick Campbell PMFS 908
4 Chris Bruntsch PMFS 906
5 Daniel Lane PMFS 886
6 Timothy Lopez PMFS 885
7 Leonard Chavis PMFS 873
8 Justin Allen PMFS 864
1 Stephanie Breedlove SFBHFS 758
2 Jeannette Riggs SFBHFS 708
3 Annika Kurz SFBHFS 681
4 Donna Starry SFBHFS 558
1 Fiona Mcclean SFFS 817
2 Melissa Miller SFFS 789
3 Susan Dillman SFFS 772
4 Kelly Slama SFFS 767
1 William (Bill) Bowen SMBB 713
2 Timothy Gross SMBB 618
1 Steve Oakley SMBBR 654
2 William Hartman SMBBR 650
3 Michael Lundgren SMBBR 494
4 Christopher Wallace SMBBR 203
1 David Howell SMBHFS 797
2 Marvin Riggs SMBHFS 794
3 James Walters SMBHFS 793
4 Gregory Yager SMBHFS 776
5 Michael Lantzy SMBHFS 771
6 Robert Pace SMBHFS 770
7 Wesley French SMBHFS 763
1 Philip Schwartztrauber SMFS 834 2 Edward Holguin SMFS 833 2 Thomas Warner SMFS 833 4 Doyle Ritchie SMFS 832
5 Clint Palm SMFS 831
6 Troy Blodgett SMFS 830 7 Daric Stalder SMFS 826
8 Hans Klar SMFS 825
Oliver Austin SMFSL 705
Jason Overby
469 1 Mark Barta SMTRAD 395 2 Phil Riley SMTRAD 390 1 Scott Turner SPMFS 897
843
Rick Dorey
Setzer
Dumke
Hryn
YAMFS 831
Landon Tieszen YAMFS 815
Bryce Dillard YAMFS 813
Tanner Overby YAMFS 807
Ben McFarland YAMFS 793
Hunter Telleen YAMFS 792
Alana Ortiz-Venegas YFBHFS 695
Mackenzie Mueller YFBHFS 652
Reese Peterson YFFS 825
Sophia Chace YFFS 776
Maddie Hanley YFFS 766
Karly Calahan YFFS 752
5 Olivia Lesueur YFFS 647 1 Sykes Lamensdorf YMBBR 576 1 Jack Moorhouse YMBHFS 802 2 Andrew Moorhouse YMBHFS 786 1 Kort Solomonson YMFS 821 2 Bekem Papa YMFS 744
scan here to visit the Northwest section landing page!
Indoor Sectionals
First Name Last Name Division Score X 1 Melani Schweder AFBBR 473 9
Bruce Cull | Executive Director of the NFAA & President of the NFAA Foundation
Bruce Cull was born in Yankton and raised in Springfield, SD. He graduated from Springfield High School and went onto 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 salonen - Geuther | Operations Director of the NFAA & NFAA Foundation
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.
Michael Anderson | Associate Executive Secretary of the NFAA & Facility Manager of the NFAA Foundation
Michael has been passionate about competitive archery and bowhunting since age 13 and has been an NFAA member ever since. He has competed in prestigious events like the Vegas Shoot, NFAA Indoor and Outdoor Field Nationals, and the Redding Trail Shoot/NFAA Marked 3D. His responsibilities include membership growth and retention, program development, communication with NFAA leadership, and improving policies and procedures. An avid bowhunter, Michael has pursued whitetails and turkeys in Iowa, as well as pronghorn antelope and elk out west. He enjoys fishing, boating, firearms, reloading, and spending time with his two German Shorthair Pointers.
Pam Tramp | Accounting Director of the NFAA & NFAA Foundation
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.
Erika Jones | Event & Program Manager of the NFAA
Erika oversees key areas of events, including marketing, customer service, scoring, logistics, and staffing. She also leads the creation and implementation of NFAA programs designed to grow membership from the grassroots level. Erika 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 15 years on Team USA, she was once ranked #1 in the world for Compound Women. Erika retired from competitive archery in 2015 after starting a family but remains deeply connected to the sport. She enjoys spending time with her husband, two boys, and Labrador Retriever. Her favorites include iced coffee, reality shows, Nebraska football, and homemade cookies.
Morgan Wittmeier | Membership and Communication 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, online shopping, cuddling up with her dogs, spending time with her family, and snowboarding in the winter!
Luca Pereira de mello | Communication & Event Coordinator of the NFAA
Luca is responsible for a wide range of event management duties, including customer service, logistics, and overall organization. His role allows him to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, a passion he brings to every interaction. Luca enjoys engaging with customers, partners, and stakeholders both locally and nationally, fostering meaningful relationships that enhance the success of each event. Now settled in Yankton, SD, Luca draws on his rich heritage, proudly representing his Brazilian and Filipino roots. His multicultural perspective adds unique value to his work and his ability to connect with others. Want to break the ice with Luca? Ask him about soccer—he’s always eager to talk about the beautiful game!
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 is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Coaching Leadership at 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.
Nicholas Ferguson is the Recreation Coordinator at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center. He earned his degree in Recreation Management from George Mason University, where he gained insights into program development and community engagement. Starting as an intern with the NFAA Foundation, he quickly transitioned to a full-time role, overseeing a variety of classes and recreational programs for all skill levels. Nicholas also coordinates events from corporate retreats to community gatherings at the facility, ensuring smooth operations and enriching experiences for participants. An avid archer for four years, he specializes in barebow recurve archery and competed at the collegiate level during his time at George Mason. His passion for archery fuels both his professional work and personal pursuits, inspiring others in the sport.
Danelle Lutz | Marketing & Events Coordinator of the NFAA Foundation
Danelle studied Sports and Recreation Marketing at the University of Pretoria in South Africa and spent 10 years on the South African Archery Team. After marrying her husband, she relocated to the United States and proudly joined the US Archery Team from 2022 to 2024. Following the birth of their daughter, Danelle stepped back from international competitions but remains passionate about archery and competes whenever she can. Outside of archery, Danelle enjoys planning fishing and hunting trips. If she isn’t at an archery event, she often feels uncertain about how to spend her free weekends. She also loves to relax with a glass of wine, surrounded by friends and family, making memories that matter.
Doug
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.
Chance has been a Professional archer for over 20 years, making a significant impact on the sport through his talent and dedication. Throughout his career, he has achieved impressive milestones, including being a 3-time Vegas Champion, Indoor National Champion, and USA Archery World Indoor Champion. Beyond archery, Chance enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, Kelsey, whether on the lake or exploring the woods. In his professional role, Chance oversees the approval process for archers aspiring to join the Pro Division, ensuring they meet the necessary standards. Additionally, he serves as a representative for all Professional archers, advocating on their behalf in matters that affect the division and its growth.
Alice specializes in managing national event logistics, overseeing every detail from the ground level to the execution phase. Her favorite part of the job is building connections with archers and industry partners from around the globe, whether through email, phone calls, or face-to-face interactions. Originally from Italy, Alice has experienced life across three different U.S. states as an au pair, embracing diverse cultures along the way. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of South Dakota. Outside of work, Alice enjoys teaching group fitness classes, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and planning her next big adventure. On her bucket list? Bungee jumping—an adrenaline-filled dream she’s eager to check off!
Christie Collin | tradeshow manager of the NFAA
Christie Colin, a former professional archer with a distinguished career in competitive archery, has seamlessly transitioned her passion for the outdoors into a thriving career in ecommerce and event management. As an Ecommerce Manager specializing in outdoor products, Christie combines her deep industry knowledge with innovative strategies to drive growth and engagement. Recently, she expanded her expertise by taking on the role of Tradeshow Manager for the National Field Archery Association (NFAA). In this capacity, Christie coordinates sponsor and vendor relations, manages booth placements, and ensures the success of high-profile events like the World Archery Festival and NFAA Indoor Nationals.
Lalit Jain | Event Management Intern of the NFAA
Nicholas Ferguson | Recreation Coordinator of the NFAA Foundation
