Right on Target with Archery

On Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30 am, the school gym is active with the student archery program practicing. High school PE teacher Jennifer Bridges is the advisor/coach. Chatham Charter has had an archery program for several years. During the current school year, middle and high school students are involved. In some years fourth and fifth graders participate as well. Physical education classes in elementary, middle and high school have an archery unit included that is part of the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP). Chatham Charter hosted a North Carolina State Qualifier at Chatham Charter on January 21st and 22nd with students from area schools preparing for the state competition held each February in Winston-Salem. The Knights had great success during the qualifying round. Of the top ten boys and girls, they earned all but one of the slots for middle and high school. 

“I have been a part of the archery club since it first started when I was in 6th grade and am still part of the club today as a senior. Archery has given me something to do outside of school and it is something that I look forward to every year. Archery has become a really important part of my life because I find a certain peace in participating. I have improved tremendously since I first started all with the help of Mrs. Bridges and the other coaches as well. Going to competitions is really fun because you get to meet other people from many different places and you’re able to bond over what you both enjoy doing. I plan on continuing archery in my free time once I graduate as well. Overall, archery has been one of the best parts about myself and it is something I will continue to enjoy for the years to come,” said senior Autumn Pate.