Archery at Duncan Middle School is more than just a sport and a program, it is a vibrant part of the school’s culture that promotes a lot of discipline, focus, and teamwork among students at DMS.
As one of the extracurricular activities offered, the archery program provides a unique opportunity for young learners to engage in an activity that emphasizes precision and patience while encouraging personal growth and development.
Mark Monteith, a teacher and archery instructor, shared his perspective on DMS archery. Monteith has feelings when it comes to archery being a sport or a club firmly.
“It’s a sport,” he said. “It’s what national archery represents.”
This the first year for the archery program, although the idea has been around for a while. During the fifth-grade tours last school year, Monteith set up an archery table to encourage participation in its initial year.
He reflects on his beliefs in the discipline and competitive nature of this activity. Archery is not a simple task, yet he finds great joy in his role.
“The program has not been in place for long, having only launched in October,” he said.
He enjoys that archery lies not just in the sport itself but in the way it fosters motivation and encouragement within his students.
“I like that it is new, and it encourages others,” he said, emphasizing how archery can build confidence and teamwork among students as they learn together.
Arielle Rodriguez, an eighth-grader and student of Monteith, shared her thoughts about her passion for archery.
Rodriguez said she enjoys archery because she gets to shoot a bow and arrow and also skip school for tournaments.
She doesn’t find archery challenging straight up.
“No, I’ve been doing it for a long time,” Rodriguez said.
Her familiarity with archery contributes to her enjoyment. The school’s archery program had only been introduced recently.
“I’m happy it’s here; it’s a great opportunity for others,” she said.
