First Shots Fired: Red Bird’s Archery Legacy Begins
- ksmith0454
- Aug 8
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 11
On August 2nd, Red Bird Christian School made history with its very first Archery Day Camp—a day filled with excitement, heart, and unforgettable moments.
Thirteen young archers, from 4th grade to seniors, gathered with bows in hand, ready to learn, grow, and take aim at something bigger than targets.
For some, it was their first visit to the line; for others, it was a chance to rekindle a passion that already runs deep. This camp wasn’t just about teaching technique—it was about giving these kids the chance to connect, learn, and build confidence in a place that feels like home.
The morning kicked off with hands-on workshops led by guest coaches Pam Bolton and Tasha Meadors, both from Tates Creek Middle School.
They guided our students through safety procedures, whistle commands, determination of eye dominance, string bow exercises, and the 11 Steps to Archery Success. These fundamentals are the building blocks of archery. Their energy and expertise set the tone for what would become an unforgettable day.
By midday, fueled by pizza and cupcakes, we traded theory for action as the students eagerly took to the targets.
Under the guidance of our incredible coaches, students focused on practicing proper shooting technique and arrow grouping skills.
It was amazing to watch their confidence grow with each shot as they applied what they learned in the morning workshops to the live target line.
Seeing their progress firsthand was a true testament to their hard work and determination, as well as the patience and expertise of our guest coaches.
Adding to the fun were lively activities like balloon-busting games, a piñata challenge, and even a selfie station with bow-and-arrow props.
But the biggest highlight was undeniably the 3D target practice.
Thanks to Archery Coach Dustin Allen from Pineville Independent School, who graciously lent us their 3D targets, our archers had the rare chance to aim at deer, bear, turkey, and other lifelike targets set up safely outdoors.
Seeing their faces light up as they tried something completely new made all the effort worthwhile.
For some of our archers, who are hunters and grew up with a bow in their hand and a deep love for hunting wild game, this was a truly special moment.
The chance to shoot at lifelike targets allowed them to connect their passion for archery to the traditions they’ve grown up with, making it all the more meaningful.
Coach Kelton Adams expresses his gratitude, "Dustin has been a great help and partner. He is also eager to assist us in organizing our inaugural tournament at Red Bird Christian School."
The passion these young archers have for this sport inspires me every single day.
As we wrapped up the day, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude—for the students, our guest coaches, my fellow coaches, and the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful.
At Red Bird, we believe in planting seeds that grow into something lasting, something meaningful. Whether it’s in the heart of a young archer picking up a bow for the first time or in the connections formed through days like this, it all adds up to something bigger than ourselves.
The aim is clear: to keep building confidence, teamwork, and celebrating the unique bond between archery and the Appalachian spirit that runs through our kids, our coaches, and our community. Here’s to many more arrows hitting their mark and many more memories made along the way!
Expressions of gratitude and acknowledgments
We want to extend a sincere thank you to our guest coaches, Pam Bolton and Tasha Meadors, from Tates Creek Middle School. Not only did they share invaluable knowledge with our kids during the morning workshops, but they also provided us as coaches with advice and guidance that we will carry into future practices. Their time and effort made a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Pam Bolton- "As an established archery team, Tasha and l were truly blessed to have had the opportunity to be invited to support and help your developing team launch your first archery camp and kick off your season.  It was an incredibly rewarding experience to work with such a sweet, well mannered, and enthusiastic group of young archers. Red Bird archers showed impressive discipline, spirit, and potential. Seeing their excitement reminded us why we love this sport so much. We’re proud to support a team that clearly has heart, talent, and determination. We believe this team is going to accomplish great things on the archery range, and we’re honored to have played a small part in their journey."
A special thank-you goes to Dustin Allen, the archery coach from Pineville Independent School, for generously allowing us to use his 3D targets and always supporting our archery team. We are so grateful for his unwavering encouragement and contributions to our program.
Finally, a huge thank you to my fellow coaches!
Kelton Adams, who introduced NASP here at Red Bird, is endlessly patient and caring, creating a safe space for every student to feel seen and supported. Cody Asher brings humor and motivation like no one else, keeping our spirits high even after long hours. And Troy Brandon Asher—ensuring every piece of equipment is in great condition and holding such a kind, encouraging presence with the kids.