Milford Middle Schoolers Hit The Bullseye

MILFORD – According to Milford school officials, there are three words to best describe the West Shore Middle School Archery Club — finesse, focus and calm.

Those are just three of the characteristics it takes to become a champion in archery and, at West Shore Middle School, students in the club have it all under control.

After a year’s worth of weekly skill development and practice, four archers from the school are showing how they have perfected their craft, earning them a top spot at the recent state-level archery competition, under the auspices of the National Archery in the Schools Program.

Now – with their first place state status -- the team is competing in the Eastern National Championships being held in Louisville, Ky. The event started Thursday and continues through Saturday.

The members of the West Shore team competing at the championships are David Hancock, Jacob LeClaire, Yusuf Genc and Santiago Penagos.

The club got its start at the school in 2007, when David Zunski, school psychologist, heard about the NASP organization and wondered if it might be something to try at West Shore.
After some quick research, Zunski was able to procure the proper certifications and required equipment and got the club ‘up and running’ in short order.

Student interest was robust and the archery club has continued to grow over the years.
Club member Santiago Penagos said he is excited about the competition.
“I can’t believe this is actually happening. When I started with the archery club here three years ago, I never would’ve believed we’d be competing at this level. It’s awesome,” said the eighth-grader.
The impact of the club is long-lasting, as evidenced by the volunteerism of one of the original student club members, Marcus Blair. Blair, an archery expert in his own right today, has volunteered his time to the group for the past 14 years.
“When I was younger, I found that the tenets of archery – staying focused, concentration and clearing your mind – really helped me, especially at times when I was stressed or anxious. I’m sure it has helped me in many parts of my life – and that’s why I like to continue helping out the team now. It’s great,” Blair said.

Zunski added practice is essential in getting better in the sport.
“Consistency is crucial – and like anything else – the more you practice, the better you get at it,” he said. “We are excited by the new phase of competition for our students and look forward to growing the archery program not only in Milford but across the state.”