WINONA – The Winona School District archery team is currently practicing for district competition set for late March.
The team will travel to Coffeeville March 26-29 for the district match and move on to the state competition in Jackson April 3-7.
In its four year history, Winona’s archery team has placed as high as ninth as a team with two students finishing first and second in their age divisions. Bailey Holley finishing first, and Cole Cochran finished second, Pearson said.
According to Coach Tabitha Pearson, the team is made up of 35 students from grades fourth through eighth. The programs started four years ago and included only grades four through sixth, however, as the program has grown with the students – four eighth grade students participating since fourth grade.
“We hope to continue on through the high school,” Pearson said, adding a grade each year as participants progress. “Four eighth graders have been around since the start, and it keeps going with them.”
Pearson said late in the year, students can compete in Charleston as part of the 4H program, and there is a chance for participants to qualify to shoot at 4H state competition as well.
“It is a growing sport,” Pearson said. “It’s amazing. It is amazing how many there are shooting.”
Pearson said what makes Winona’s team different is the competitive shooting of its fourth grade students. She explained that some schools do not let their fourth grade students compete at competitions, but all Winona team members shoot.
“For our fourth graders to step up to that line and stand their ground, it’s heart-warming,” Pearson said.
Winona Elementary team members have been practicing since October, while the Winona Junior High students began practice in January. Currently, the team practices Monday and Wednesday afternoons at Winona Elementary School.
As for funding for the archery program, Pearson said it is funded through grant funds and fundraising events.
