Archery popularity grows

By Michael Butler

Archery has become one of the Tallassee Recreation Department’s most popular and successful programs thanks in part to Katniss Everdeen.

The character on the Hunger Games series did have an impact on the interest with the still relatively new offering at the recreation center, admitted programs coordinator Tammy Merrett.

“Katniss has helped, especially with the females,” said Merrett, who serves as the instructor of the program in Tallassee. “I went out and did a class at Reeltown. We had a little girl who we call Katniss because she was so good. It was mostly girls in that class.”

The class is open to girls and boys ages 10-18.

“We have taken a group every year to the state archery tournament in Dothan,” Merrett added. “The class is to coincide with getting ready for the tournament.”

Registration is ongoing through July 8 at the recreation department. Classes begin on July 12 at 8:30 a.m. and meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning until July 28. The state tournament is Aug. 6.

 “Each year we’ve had a winner. It’s a fun program.  Anybody can do it,” including Merrett’s daughter Morgan. “She came out when could barely pull the bow back.  By the end of the season, she was hitting the target.”

Fees are $40 for new shooters and $25 for returning shooters. All equipment is provided by the recreation department.  Register at the recreation center at 450 Gilmer Avenue. Call 334-283-4726 for more information or visit the Tallassee Recreation Department website.

Send Comments