Indiana DNR Law Enforcement hosts largest indoor archery tournament

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) continues to grow in Indiana. Over 375 schools have the NASP program as part of the curriculum. The program is affecting approximately 50,000 students annually.

The DNR Law Enforcement Division has certified over 1500 teachers as instructors in the NASP program.  The Division is working with schools across the state with the ambitious goal of adding a minimum of 45 schools a year.  Students participate by shooting a Genesis compound bow at an international competition scoring target.  The program has shown results of improving student attendance, attitude, behavior, and overall learning experience. It teaches the students to be safe, courteous, and sportsmanship as well as other life skills.

Students are given an opportunity to join competitive archery teams to represent their schools at tournaments across the state.  In January, over 3,300 shooters participated in qualifying events which were held to obtain an invitation to the state tournament. While not all the teams qualify for this event, the lessons the program is designed to teach will be achieved by everyone who participates in the program at any level.

“NASP has created an opportunity for anyone to join a team and compete at all levels. While the program has incorporated some competition, the main focus is to teach life skills that can be used in everyday situations”, said Outdoor Education Lt. Larry Morrison.  “Archery teaches concentration, poise, relaxation and commitment to practice, which translates to a better student in the classroom”.

“Approximately 2200 competitive shooters representing over 100 qualifying schools statewide will be competing on the international target range at this year’s State NASP tournament”, said Outdoor Education Coordinator Chris Clark.

The Indiana State NASP tournament will be held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Blue Ribbon and Champions Pavilion on Saturday March 12^th, beginning at 7:30 A.M.  An additional 3-D tournament will be held throughout the day with 400 participants.