CLEVELAND — Allison Young has the mark of a master.
She began learning about archery approximately three years ago with Crooked River Archers. It’s one of the oldest and largest Junior Olympics Archery Development clubs in the country. The organization is operated by dedicated and hardworking volunteers.
“Like other accuracy sports, you’re playing against yourself mainly,” she said.
Her favorite practice partner is her mother, Judy.
“It’s good to have an excuse to spend some time together, especially with such a fun group of people,” said Allison Young.
One of those people is Sam Arendec, a volunteer coach.
“My job here is to develop everybody’s form and try to get everybody to shoot better and better and better. It helps me just as much as it helps them,” he said.
Allison Young fires an arrow. (Spectrum News 1)
But on the range, it’s about more than the shot. Judy Young said the sport is very inclusive.
“Actually, that’s what makes it such a great sport… You can be any age. It doesn’t matter how strong you are,” said Judy Young. “You don’t have to work out to do this, so it’s available to anybody. It’s just fun at any level.”
Crooked River Archers practices at the outdoor York Road Archery Range in the Brecksville Reservation of the Metroparks from May through October. They move to an indoor range from November through April.
For those interested in learning more about the sport, Club President Jay Farris recommends joining the group for a few practices and using club-owned gear before purchasing any of your own.
