By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–A little extra time on the archery “range” has been just fine with Union City Middle School fifth-graders.
Members of Hunter Rice’s physical education classes have enjoyed a week’s worth of instruction from Tara Dowdy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the National Archery in Schools Program.
Included during that time has been four days of hands-on experience on a makeshift range in the UCHS multipurpose building. Before that, classroom time earlier in the week was spent guiding students through an all-phases study of archery.
“They’ve really enjoyed the extra time having the bows in their hands,” Rice said. “Previously, we’ve just had one day of classroom instruction and one day of shooting.
“It has been obvious how much-more comfortable they’ve gotten each day.”
Dowdy, who has been a mainstay with the program since its inception four years ago, addressed the 11 points of emphasis of archery – including everything from how to stand to how to hold the bow.
Along with shooting form, safety tips and eye dominance were part of Dowdy’s focus.
More than 100 students participated in the week-long program.
UC Schools was the first in the area to introduce the National Archery in Schools. The program not only teaches archery skills, but also encourages students to spend time outdoors where they can be physically active.
The National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) is a joint venture between state Departments of Education and Wildlife.