25 Feb 2026
How did you get involved in Archery?
I first got involved in archery through my father, who was a member of Yeo Bowmen in Yeovil. I joined the club at the age of 12 and immediately took to the sport, going on to win my age group at the Somerset county championships that same year. Now, at 57, I’ve been a member of many clubs over the years and have enjoyed shooting Barebow, Recurve and Longbow, and I currently shoot Compound. Throughout those years I have competed at the various national competitions always improving on my own scores and never too worried about winning outright.
What makes archery a fun and accessible sport?
Archery is fun and accessible to me because it challenges both the technical and mental sides of the sport. I enjoy the detail — particularly with compound — knowing that if you get everything right with the bow, the arrows will go exactly where you intend. There’s something deeply satisfying about that level of precision and accountability.
Competition adds another dimension. Watching some of the best archers in the world is inspiring, and rather than being intimidated, it makes me believe I can reach that standard too. I enjoy reflecting on what works in practice and then aiming to reproduce that under competitive pressure — that process of refinement is what keeps it exciting.
The community aspect is just as important. Being surrounded by people who share the same passion is incredibly motivating. Building a club that brings a whole island together, creating something genuinely intergenerational, is something I’m especially proud of. Seeing different age groups support and encourage each other shows just how accessible and unifying archery can be.
What physical/mental health benefits do you experience from taking part in archery?
Archery benefits me both physically and mentally. Physically, it helps maintain strength, stability, and coordination — particularly in the shoulders, back, and core — and keeps me active in a way that’s sustainable long-term. It’s low impact but still demanding, which makes it something I can continue to enjoy and progress in.
Mentally, the benefits are even greater. Archery requires focus, control, and composure. When you’re on the line, everything else fades into the background — it’s just you, your process, and the shot. That level of concentration is incredibly grounding and a great stress reliever. The discipline of reflecting on what went well, learning from mistakes, and aiming to repeat good execution builds resilience and confidence, both on and off the range.
There’s also a strong sense of purpose and connection that comes from being part of a club environment. Sharing the sport with others, encouraging different generations, and working to grow participation brings a real sense of wellbeing and pride.
What are the benefits of joining an archery club?
Joining an archery club offers a wide range of benefits, both practical and social. For most people, a club provides structured coaching, safe facilities, and access to experienced archers who can help with technique, equipment setup, and progression. It also creates opportunities for competition, goal setting, and personal development. Beyond the shooting itself, clubs foster friendships and a shared sense of purpose — being around people who are equally passionate about the sport makes improvement more enjoyable and sustainable.
Clubs also make the sport far more accessible. Beginners gain guidance and confidence in a supportive environment, while experienced archers benefit from shared knowledge and collective experience. The social side — training together, travelling to competitions, or simply encouraging one another on the line — builds camaraderie that often extends well beyond the range.
In more remote locations, such as living on an island or far from larger towns, an archery club can become even more significant. It can act as a genuine community hub, bringing people together who might otherwise have limited access to organised sport. As the club grows, it can unite different generations and backgrounds, offering a space where people feel welcomed and valued. For those who believe they can no longer take part in physical activity, archery provides a manageable, adaptable option — low impact, inclusive, and focused as much on mindset as physical strength. In that setting, the club becomes more than just a place to shoot; it becomes a point of connection, encouragement, and shared achievement within the wider community.
What advice would you give to anyone considering getting into archery?
My advice to anyone considering getting into archery would be simple — give it a go and don’t be intimidated. It’s a sport that looks technical from the outside, but everyone starts as a beginner, and most clubs are incredibly welcoming and supportive.
Start by joining a local club or beginners’ course rather than buying equipment straight away. You’ll learn the correct technique, understand safety, and get a feel for the different bow styles before deciding what suits you best. Archery rewards patience and consistency more than brute strength, so focus on building good habits early on.
Most importantly, enjoy the process. Progress comes from repetition and reflection — learning what works, adjusting what doesn’t, and gradually refining your shot. Whether your goal is competition or simply shooting for enjoyment, the satisfaction of seeing improvement is what keeps people hooked.
And if you live somewhere more remote or feel you’re not particularly “sporty,” don’t let that hold you back. Archery is adaptable, inclusive, and truly lifelong. It can become not just a hobby, but a community and a source of confidence and well-being.
How can people get involved in archery?
People usually get into archery by joining a local club, where beginners can learn safely using club equipment and get guidance from qualified coaches. This gives people a solid foundation in technique, safety and confidence without needing to buy anything upfront. Clubs also tend to be friendly community driven spaces, which makes the first steps feel welcoming rather than intimidating.
Another common route is taking a structured beginner’s course, often run over a few weeks. These courses are designed for absolute newcomers and cover everything from how to stand to how to choose the right bow once you’re ready. They’re a great way to build skills gradually and meet others who are starting at the same time.
Some people first try archery at “have a go” sessions, outdoor centres, or school and youth programmes. These low pressure introductions let people experience the fun of shooting before committing to a course or club. From there, they can decide whether they want to pursue it recreationally, competitively, or simply as a relaxing hobby.
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Thanks Paul for sharing some tips and advice to anyone who is keen to pick a bow.
To get started, why not find a local club near you at a Club Finder map here.