Archery Day hits the bullseye for locals

As a result of the partnership between Veteran Sport Australia (VSA) and Archery Australia, we recently collaborated with Shoalhaven City Archers to support a ‘Come and Try Archery Day’ for the NSW South Coast Defence community. Together, VSA and Archery Australia activate events around the country with local clubs to encourage former and current serving members and their families to grab a bow and give the sport a go.  

Shoalhaven City Archers hosted the event providing five amazing volunteers to help run the day. 12 veterans and family members joined us at the archery club, experiencing the power of sport and comradery first-hand, whilst learning new skills in a safe and supportive environment.  

Alex le-Pham, participated in the event and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “Absolutely amazing, it was such a welcoming community! I’ll definitely be back!” 

Participants were introduced to the sport and taught basic archery skills before giving it a go themselves. Then, after a full morning of activity, the club put on a delicious barbeque lunch for all involved providing a relaxed environment for everyone to mingle and catch up. 

President of Shoalhaven City Archers, Wayne Hanley, said “It was our pleasure to be a part of this day, and are pleased that everyone enjoyed their time with us. The club would be pleased to offer this activity again for Veteran Sport Australia.”  

As with the recent archery event in Adelaide, the day was a success for all involved.  

Come on down and give it a try 

Events such as this are made possible through our work engaging with organisations that also believe in the power of sport and the role it plays when it comes to the recovery, rehabilitation and community reintegration of veterans and their families. Our collaboration with Archery Australia will see 10,000 veterans and their families be given the opportunity to get involved with archery through the 140 clubs around Australia. 

Michael Hartung, VSA General Manager, highlights the importance of collaborating with like-minded sporting organsations for the health and wellbeing of the veteran community.  

“It’s really important that there are great connections formed while veterans are transitioning out of the armed forces, so that the transition into civilian life can be as effective and as easy as possible for them and their families,” Michael said.  

“Sport is so powerful and there are so many opportunities to engage and connect with fellow veterans and the broader community.” 

VSA would like thank the club and incredible volunteers from Shoalhaven City Archers who generously donated their time and expertise, making the day such a success. Email us at support@veteransport.org.au or follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with events happening in your area.