Hitting the Bullseye: Your Guide to the JOAD Program and College Archery
Hitting the Bullseye: Your Guide to the JOAD Program and College Archery
Ever dreamt of becoming the next Katniss Everdeen or Legolas? Or maybe you just love the focus and discipline that archery requires. Either way, if you're a young archer (or the parent of one!), you need to know about JOAD – the Junior Olympic Archery Development program.

Here's what makes JOAD awesome:
- Learn from the Best: JOAD clubs are run by certified coaches who teach proper technique, safety, and all the archery fundamentals.
- Find Your Tribe: It's a great way to meet other archers, make friends, and be part of a supportive community.
- Level Up Your Skills: JOAD has a structured achievement award program that motivates you to progress and reach new goals.
- Compete (if you want to!): JOAD offers opportunities to compete at local, state, and even national levels.
Think College Archery? JOAD is Your Starting Point!
Now, here's the really exciting part: JOAD can help you get into college AND earn scholarships! Many colleges and universities have archery teams, and they often look for athletes with JOAD experience.

Resources to Help You Aim High:
- USA Archery JOAD Program- This is your go-to source for all things JOAD. Find clubs near you, learn about the achievement program, and get the latest news.
- USA Archery Collegiate Archery Program - Explore college archery opportunities, find schools with teams, and learn about the collegiate archery circuit.
- Archery 360 - This website is a fantastic resource for archers of all levels, with articles, tips, and information about all aspects of archery.
- How to Get a College Archery Scholarship - This article provides valuable advice on how to increase your chances of getting an archery scholarship.
Beyond the Target:
JOAD is about more than just hitting the bullseye. It's about developing valuable life skills:
- Focus and Concentration: Archery requires intense focus, which can translate to better performance in school and other areas of life.
- Discipline and Self-Control: Archery teaches you to control your mind and body, which are essential skills for success in anything you do.
- Goal Setting and Perseverance: The JOAD achievement program encourages you to set goals and work hard to achieve them.
- Confidence and Self-Esteem: As you improve your skills and see your progress, your confidence will soar.
Ready to Take Aim?
If you're ready to embark on your archery journey, find a JOAD club near you and get started! It's an adventure that could lead you to new friendships, exciting competitions, and maybe even a college scholarship. So grab your bow and arrow, and let's hit the target!
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Watch This to Get Started:
For a comprehensive overview of the JOAD program, check out this introductory video by USA Archery:
This video provides insights into how the JOAD program helps youth get involved in archery, highlighting the skills and opportunities it offers.

Meet Yale, Nogin
Head Coach NTS Level 4
Yale Nogin, Head Coach and founder of Atlanta Archery Club, has 35+ years of archery experience and 8 years of teaching. A USA Archery NTS Level 4 Coach, he blends archery with chiropractic and yoga, inspiring all ages to develop lifelong skills.