Youth archery hits the mark

Youth archery is rebuilding steadily in San Diego schools following a post-pandemic slump. According to Trevor Olson, athletic director at The Grauer School in Encinitas, many ranges were repurposed for outdoor classroom space and haven’t yet been reopened. However, archery programs have always been well-loved by students and recent growth bodes well for archers and fans alike.

“There is still a lot of interest and plenty of archers in San Diego and many of us coaches in the area are determined to get more schools involved and more bows in students’ hands,” Olson said.

Grauer boasts a team of 35 archers at a school with only 165 students. They are well known for having one of the most beautiful ranges in the county.

Students love the sport because it suits all sorts of athletes. The most driven archers can hone their skills for competition. Those who favor the social aspects of the team can choose a training path that focuses on developing confidence, learning new skills and spending quality time with peers. In either case, participants enjoy being part of a team, while focusing on individual development.

According to Olson, archery is an excellent choice for student athletes because it promotes mental and physical focus, a connection to our primitive roots and because it’s fun!

Several local schools are sending archers to compete in two major events at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista in April. These events are run by Olympic Archery in Schools (OAS) and are open for the public to attend.

• The OAS California State Championship: April 20

Archers compete on the outdoor field in a well-rounded event that includes a ranking round, elimination round and team rounds.

• The OAS Indoor National Championship: April 27

Archers compete for national ranking in a 36-arrow ranking round.

Local Schools that Participate in OAS

Dehesa Middle School

High Tech Middle/High School Chula Vista

Grauer Middle and High School

Magnolia Science Academy Middle School

John Muir Middle School

Muirlands Middle School

High Tech Middle Media Arts

High Tech High Point Loma

Academy of Our Lady of Peace

San Diego High School

Kearny High School

La Jolla High School

Sanderling Waldorf School

San Pasqual Education Center

Be sure to tune in this summer to see the world’s best archers compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.