Fundraising to bring NASP to local highschool

November 3, 2016

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is a youth program that is focused on attracting a new generation to outdoors activities such as hunting and fishing. Archery is an accessible sport that allows youth of all ages and athletic ability to participate. It has proven to grow self-esteem and encourage school attendance. The program is delivered as part of the Ontario Curriculum in areas of Physical Education, Mathematics, Physics, Outdoor Studies etc. It can also be extended to be offered as an extra curricular activity in the school.

North Hastings High School would like to bring this program to their school. A free demonstration was provided by Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) on Thursday, Nov. 27 to all students enrolled in physical education classes and also opened up at lunch to all other students in the school. It was very well received by the students and the staff.

OFAH will provide training for up to five staff members at NHHS and will provide all of the equipment at a discounted price for the school. The teachers trained in the school will be certified to present NASP lessons that are safe for students, instructors, bystanders and the facility. They learn how to determine a student’s dominant eye and teach archer form, shot execution and follow-through. The teachers are also provided extensive advice on how to provide positive coaching.

The cost for the all of the equipment is $5,000 and NHHS is reaching out to the community for their support. If there are any individuals or groups, such as hunting camps, who would like to donate to this program or have questions about the program, they can either contact Kendra Kilpatrick or Rachel Calder at NHHS (613-332-1220) or can drop their donation off at the high school between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Submitted by Kendra Kilpatrick