Woodlawn Elementary, Chatsworth, National Archery in the Schools Program champs (image via georgiawildlife.com)

Two Georgia Elementary schools have won first and third places, respectively, in the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). Of more than 100 schools competing from around the country, two Georgia teams really shined. Woodlawn Elementary School in Chatsworth won the national title for the second time in three years. Their score of 3,300 points was also the highest score ever posted by an elementary school at a national competition. Bay Creek Elementary School in Loganville won third place at the competition. You can see all of the tournament results on NASP’s website. Check out the full news release by Georgia DNR online.

The NASP is for boys and girls who compete on a team together, not divided by genders like most school sporting programs. The program begins with fourth graders and continues through high school. Research has shown that students who participate in the program have improved grades, attendance, and behavior. There are also college scholarships available for archers.

If you’re interested in starting an archery in the schools program at your school, Georgia Department of Natural Resources is holding two teacher training workshops this week.
•May 23, 2013 8am-4:30pm at Georgia Southern University
•May 28, 2013 8am-4:30pm at Pine Grove Middle School (Valdosta)
Check out their website for registration information. You may end up training an Olympic athlete.

Watch this video from Georgia Wildlife to learn more about NASP and see the World Champion team from Woodlawn Elementary.