MADISON — Student archers from 51 public, private and home schools competed virtually in the state’s National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) tournament held March 11-27, with competitors from Gilman, Sparta and Cadott taking top honors.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sponsored the Wisconsin State NASP tournament and has helped host previous in-person state tournaments in the Wisconsin Dells before the pandemic.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, the 1,200 archers competed with teammates from their homes or nearby schools. The scores were then verified by an adult with no affiliation with the teams and then provided to tournament organizers.
The DNR provided instructions that follow NASP guidelines for the schools to compete and have their scores recorded in the state tournament. The department also supports the schools and the tournament when equipment is needed, such as targets, quivers and bow racks.
The 20-year-old archery school program seeks to provide students with a sport to enjoy the thrill of competing while learning valuable skills. These student-athletes learn to develop focus, patience, discipline and more personal tools necessary for success in school and life.
Competitors in the tournament included grades four through 12.
Top Scorers
● Tatum Weir, an 11th grader from Gilman, was the top female bullseye tournament scorer recording a score of 290 out of a 300 maximum.
● Casey Grunseth, an 11th grader from Gilman, was the top male bullseye tournament scorer recording a score of 296 out of a 300 maximum.
● St. Patrick’s School in Sparta recorded the highest bullseye team score for the elementary and middle school divisions.
● Cadott High School recorded the highest bullseye team score in the high school division.
Tournaments like this are made possible by many volunteers, teachers, coaches, parents and community and school supporters.
The NASP typically teaches archery during the school day as part of a physical education curriculum. Every student uses the identical equipment and is taught safety, proper form, shooting and scoring arrows.
Interested teachers can attend a one-day training session to receive Basic Archery Instructors certification. Archery equipment and a teaching curriculum are provided, and grants are available to help offset any initial startup costs for schools.
With the help of grants, schools can start with minimal investment. Visit the DNR’s NASP webpage or the NASP website for more information.
