Stalybridge Archery Club, located in Manchester, is a reputable and long-standing archery club that has been in existence since the mid 1950s. It officially affiliated to the sport's governing bodies in 1958 and has since then produced numerous accomplished archers, including county champions, national record holders, and even Olympic competitors. The club prides itself on its diverse membership, welcoming people from all walks of life, different ethnic backgrounds, and spanning a wide age range, from 10 to 90+.
One of the most commendable aspects of Stalybridge Archery Club is its commitment to inclusivity and fostering a sense of community. The club boasts several families, some spanning three generations, creating an environment that encourages participation from all age groups. A large junior section, consisting of both girls and boys, further emphasises the club's dedication to developing and nurturing young talent. Additionally, the senior section of the club is predominantly composed of enthusiastic women who actively contribute to the club's management system.
Target archery is the club's primary discipline, although all members are encouraged to explore other aspects of the sport, such as Field and Clout archery. Stalybridge Archery Club has an impressive history of competitive success, with members actively participating in tournaments across the country. These tournaments range from world record events, national, regional, and county tournaments, to open club tournaments and interclub shoots. The club also takes pride in its members' involvement as officials, ranging from county to international level, with one honorary member qualified as a National Judge with ArcheryGB, a Continental Judge with World Archery Europe, and an International Judge Candidate with World Archery.
To ensure members receive the guidance they need, Stalybridge Archery Club currently has three level 1 coaches and one level 2 coach. These coaches oversee the beginner's courses offered by the club and are available to provide assistance and advice on all aspects of archery to club members. The club also caters to those archers who may not yet be ready for open tournaments or prefer shooting within the club. Regular competitions, designed to be both fun and skill-enhancing, are held throughout the year specifically for the improvement of less-experienced archers.
Aside from its archery activities, Stalybridge Archery Club also places great emphasis on its social aspect. Members have the opportunity to gather in the peaceful surroundings of the club grounds for a quiet chat or engage in organised events such as fun shoots with barbecues, quiz nights, Christmas parties, and even archery-focused holidays. This social side of the club plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared interests among its members.
Stalybridge Archery Club is funded by the British Heart Foundation and is proud to be a registered Automated External Defibrillator (AED) site. The club's commitment to safety and well-being is further exemplified by its dedication to maintaining a friendly and inclusive environment for all archery enthusiasts. For more information, visit the club's website or contact Neil S E Foden, who maintains the site, at stalybridgeac@gmail. Com.