Quaker Connections

Straight shooter:  Sophomore Danica Wiseman excels in archery

A deep breath. A bow in one hand, outstretched toward the target. An arrow flat against the other hand that is pulling back the string of the bow, gradually increasing its tension. Suddenly, the breath is gone -- along with the arrow, which is soaring at breakneck speed towards its target.

\tThe sport of archery has been practiced by humans for millennia. However, over the years, archery has become less of a means of survival and more of a hobby and/or sport. A sport that sophomore Danica Wiseman is well acquainted with. Having started her journey into archery five years ago in 4-H, Wiseman has sharpened her skills over the years, and is currently a part of the Pinehill Archery Team. Wiseman has even been able to compete at the national level.

\tWith the stress of life weighing one down, it’s important that people have a way to release that stress. Wisemann just so happens to do this by releasing an arrow. “Archery has been an outlet for me to grow,” said Wiseman. “It has helped me manage my anxiety and make new friends.” And make friends she certainly has.

\tWisemann isn’t just in the company of good and supportive friends, however. She is also guided by a good and supportive coach “... I most definitely would not be where I am today without my coach Wade,” said Wiseman. “He is the most generous and supportive person you could ever meet and is the reason I always try my best.” 

\tNo man is an island, and no archer is either. Finding a place that can provide support is necessary, even in a single-person sport such as archery. Wiseman has similar advice for newcomers wanting to get into the sport for the first time. “If you are looking to get into archery, you should first find a local range to shoot at, and either rent or borrow a bow to shoot around with,” said Wiseman. “The first steps are really to see what style of bow you’re comfortable with, so you can learn from there.” 

This isn’t Wiseman’s only advice, though.

\tWhen it comes to archery competitions, it is important to remember that patience is a virtue. “You learn very quickly that this is not a fast-paced sport. Some of our competitions take all day,” said WIseman. “When you’re not shooting, you’re just waiting or scoring. A lot of competitions can also be hard for people, so I have to be patient with them and give them the time they need. This is why communication is also important. We talk about many things during practice and competitions. From how bad the wind is to needing some water. Communication is so important and really is also good sportsmanship, too.”

\tWhen it comes to passions, they are wide and varied, yet they all hold one thing in common. This commonality isn’t tangible, nor is it an action such as training. Wiseman describes this common trait very well, when talking about her passion. She said, “Archery is something I can look forward to each week. Plain and simple.”

Story by Joey Dickinson