1. What grades can participate in the Portage Archery Club?
Any student enrolled in the Portage Area School District and in 4th through 12th grade are eligible to join.
2. Do we need to buy our own equipment?
Nope! All equipment is provided by the club in accordance with NASP® rules. Personal bows are allowed at practices or tournaments as long as they meet NASP® guidelines. Please speak with a coach before obtaining or purchasing a bow and arrows.
3. When and where are practices held?
Practices take place at John Muir Elementary Gym. Because the space is shared, the schedule is released month by month once it’s finalized. You can find the practice times on the schedule page.
4. How are tournament schedules shared?
Tournament sign-ups and information are sent through the Band App, which is our main communication tool for registered families. You may also reach out to the Head Coach at portagewiarchery@gmail.com
5. How much does it cost to join?
Registration is $70 for the first child, and $50 for each additional sibling. Tournament fees are typically $15 per event, plus any optional 3D shoot costs.
6. How do we pay the registration fee?
Payments must be made in person by cash or check (made out to Portage Area School District) and turned in to the club treasurers.
7. Are there scholarships or sponsorships available if we can’t afford the fees?
Yes! We offer limited sponsorships to help ensure all interested students can participate. Please reach out privately for more information.
8. How do we stay up to date on announcements and schedules?
We use the Band App for all internal communication. You'll get access once registration is complete. We also post general updates on our Facebook page.
9. Can parents help out?
Absolutely! We love and appreciate parent involvement—whether it’s helping during practice, volunteering at tournaments, or sharing ideas at board meetings.
10. Does every archer go to tournaments?
We encourage all archers to attend the local tournaments, but it’s not required.
11. What should my child wear to practice?
Archers must wear closed-toe shoes with a backing (no sandals or slippers). Comfortable clothing is recommended—nothing too loose that could catch on the bowstring. Longer hair must be tied back. If your child forgets a hair-tie, we do have brand new ones that can be given.
12. What if my child misses a practice?
We understand things come up. Consistent attendance helps with skill development, especially before tournaments. We recommend at least one practice a week.
13. What’s the difference between bullseye and 3D tournaments?
Bullseye tournaments use standard round targets at set distances.
3D tournaments involve life-sized animal-shaped foam targets. Both are scored similarly but offer different challenges!
14. Can siblings or friends attend practice or tournaments?
Yes—spectators are welcome at tournaments, and siblings can sit quietly during practices if space allows. However, only registered archers are allowed on the shooting line.
15. How do we know when we’re scheduled to shoot at a tournament?
Once the tournament host finalizes the schedule, we’ll post your child’s shoot time on the Band App, send out an email confirmation, and can be seen on the NASP® Tournament app/website.
16. Are there team uniforms?
Yes. Archers receive a team shirt for competitions. They may be required to wear this at events and tournaments.
17. How can I support the team if I can’t volunteer?
There are still ways to help—donations (monetary or raffle items), sharing social media posts, or helping find community sponsors all make a big impact!