Every year, millions of students discover archery through the National Archery in the Schools Program® — often for the very first time. The program is practiced in over 10,000 schools in 62 jurisdictions. While NASP® introduces archery in physical education classes, many of these young archers don’t know where to turn once the school day ends.
That’s where ATA-member retailers can make a meaningful difference. To help shops connect with these new archers and their families, the Archery Trade Association, in partnership with NASP®, developed the Friends of NASP® course — a free, easy-to-complete educational resource that helps retailers welcome NASP® participants and build long-term relationships.
Creating a Clear Path from Class to Community
NASP® and ATA share a common goal: to grow and support archery at every level. This course was created with that mission in mind.
“This course empowers retailers to become a bridge between school programs and lifelong archers,” Nicole Nash, ATA’s senior manager of outreach, said. “When a student enjoys archery in school and finds a supportive local shop, that experience becomes more than just a class — it becomes a passion. It’s about being part of the growth and future of archery in your community.”
NASP® recognizes the critical role retailers play in helping students and families take the next step. Whether it’s recommending gear, providing lessons, or simply welcoming newcomers into the shop, retailers help turn a one-time experience into a lasting passion.
State NASP® coordinators across the country see firsthand the value of local shop involvement.
“When archery shops engage with NASP® families, we see significantly higher retention,” Adam Lewis, archery specialist for Texas Parks and Wildlife, said. “Kids keep shooting when they feel supported beyond the classroom.”
The course provides practical strategies for engagement, including how to connect with local NASP® instructors, host introductory events, and ensure your shop environment is welcoming and beginner-friendly.
For many archery shops, becoming a Friend of NASP® has been both rewarding and impactful. From an archer’s first bow to long-term coaching, archery shops have the opportunity to guide new archers every step of the way.
“This course helped us understand how to better serve new archers and their families,” Bryan Schertz, owner of On Target Archery, said. “It’s important that local schools, and families see us as a safe place to learn and grow in the sport. We as a shop become an extension of what is taught in the classroom.”
ATA-member retailers can complete the course in under an hour. The program is available without charge to all ATA members as part of their annual membership.
It’s available through the ATA member portal and includes:
– A breakdown of how NASP® works
– Guidance on how to connect with NASP® educators and families
– Customer service tips to welcome beginners
– Marketing tools to promote your shop as NASP®-friendly
– An indicator on Archery360’s and Bowhunters United Store Locator that you’ve completed the course
“If you’re an ATA member, you’re already halfway there,” Nash said. “The course is free, fast, and full of insights that can help grow your customer base and the archery community.”
After completing the course, archery retailers will be identified as a Friend of NASP® on Archery 360’s Store Locator and given a special emblem showing they are equipped to serve NASP® participants as well as a window cling to display in their store. This makes it easier for participants to identify trusted local partners, coaches to recommend supportive shops and students to discover a place in the archery community that extends beyond the school gym.
The future of archery may start in school gyms, but it flourishes in your shop.
By becoming a Friend of NASP®, your business becomes more than a retail destination. It serves as a gateway to opportunity, inspiration, and community for young archers ready to take their next shot. Whether you’re a seasoned pro shop or a new retailer looking to connect with families, this course gives you the tools to make a difference.
Take the course, become a Friend of NASP®, and help turn a first arrow into a lifelong love of archery.
To access the Friends of NASP® course, log in to your ATA member dashboard or contact nicolenash@archerytrade.org for assistance.
Attend the 2026 ATA Trade Show
Retailers who attend the 2026 ATA Trade Show can speak with members of ATA staff about this course, or any of our other resources and educational offerings, in person. This year, the ATA is hosting a week-long celebration. Members of ARRO and NABA can attend their shows on Jan. 6, 2025. The ATA Trade Show portion of the week will be held Jan. 7-8. Then, stick around Jan. 9-10 for the all-new Archery & Bowhunting Supershow. The week comes to an epic close with concurrent archery tournaments: S3DA’s Indoor open on Jan. 9 and NFAA’s Rushmore Rumble Jan. 9-11. All six events will be held in the same location at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. You can learn more at atashow.com. We hope to see you there!
