Versatile bow opens sport to all ages

The versatility of the one-size-fits-all Genesis bow, invented by Matt McPhereson of Matthews Archery, is the foundation for the growth of the National Archery in the Schools Program.

The single cam compound bow with a draw weight of only to 10-20 pounds is designed with universal draw length and zero let-off. That means a sixth-grader can shoot effectively at a 10-meter target and hand the same bow to a senior in high school during competition.

Beyond school, students can take their archery skills to different levels that could lead to lifelong interest in hunting, target shooting or even the Olympics.

Some teachers use the interest in archery to take aim at lessons in math, physics and history, not to mention discipline and responsibility.

“It’s amazing that an activity that’s 3,000 years old can still capture the imagination of modern kids,” said Jon Gauthier, National Archery in the Schools director.