Williamsburg, KY –– Team On-Point S3DA hosted the 1st annual Georgia S3DA Outdoor Target State Championship in Social Circle, Georgia. Jake Martin, GA State Coordinator, said he had planned for 60 archers to participate but three weeks before the event it appeared they could have up to 150 kids to register. Jake was able to reach out to another S3DA club and secure a new larger venue. The city and school of Social Circle, GA was gracious enough to lend the use of their old High School football field.

There were two lines of competition with elimination rounds to immediately follow. Everyone was advised to bring rain gear and tents; which turned out to be a pretty good decision as there was delays in the competition throughout the day. It was a long day due to the weather, but a first-time experience for many parents and kids who have never been to or competed in an S3DA event.

With some torrential downpours, the B.A.M.M. Archery club’s tent suffered a huge blow. B.A.M.M. Archery Head Coach, Leonard Hardy stated, “The morning line was perfect, but the evening line was where all the rain came in. My tent did suffer a little, but hopefully that will open the door for my wife to let me buy a new one. The event ran smooth and everything was great. Everybody had a great time and if it was left up to these kids, they would participate every weekend.”

S3DA parent Sarah Bates stated, “My son, Justin, has never shot 50 meters in competition. There was a lot of preparation and many hours put in. As a parent and volunteer, I always learn something new about archery and I am continually impressed with the dedicated coaches who work so hard at growing this sport and S3DA’s organization. However, I am particularly proud of my son for his performance in High School Fixed Pins and that he volunteered on his own to help with concessions. I believe what any sport’s main goal should be about seeing positive change, not only in an individual, but also in growing community spirit. I am very happy that my family is a part of S3DA and Team On-Point.”

The tournament was a huge success and a new venue was definitely needed. Georgia S3DA had 118 students from 12 different clubs from all over the state to compete. Jake Martin, GA S3DA State Coordinator, said “The Social Circle venue was perfect, centrally located in the state, had indoor restrooms and a functioning concession stand. Everything you need.”

Started in December 2012 by the Scholastic Archery Association, S3DA has grown exponentially as a next step program to follow introductory programs offered as part of 4-H or the National Archery in Schools Program. S3DA addresses the need for a program to bridge beginning target archery experience and more advanced activities such as 3-D shooting and bowhunting. The program currently operates across the United States with hundreds of certified coaches serving

thousands of young archers, grades 3–12. For more information on S3DA membership go to: WWW.S3DA.ORG or email: infos3darchery@gmail.com. Check out S3DA on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram