Coaching Corner
Here at SVTA we are lucky enough to have coaches across 3 levels.
- We have around a dozen active Level 1 Coaches
- Our level 2 coaches are Bronwyn, Evan, Brian, Scott H, Amanda, Sandy, Don, Stephen B, Trent and Darren
- We also have a level 3 coach in Alison.
- The Club Coach is Darren
The photo board above the club sign-in book has the names and photos of all the coaches to help you when you’re seeking out assistance.
When on duty, all our coaches wear shirts that look a little different to most members’ shirts to make it easier to spot them around the club. They are predominantly grey with green trim and have “coach” written on the sleeve with their first name on the front. Whilst always busy helping people, they are very approachable.
Regardless of your level of archery, coaching help is available to all archers on most Saturday mornings. Newer archers can seek coaching on the mid field on the Mid Field from 9.00 to 11.30. More experienced archers may make arrangements for some individualised coaching by seeing the Club Coach.
The Level 2 and 3 Coaches offer assistance with measuring and advising you on your first bow purchase and the setup of your new bow. .
Coaches and instructors deserve some time themselves to shoot so please respect their time in the afternoon. Some coaches may be willing to assist you after lunch, but most are regular archers themselves and like to shoot some arrows.
Coaching Corner Posts
Secure your target butt
Please use two tent spikes to secure the back legs of your target. The weather can be windy and the targets are quite light. If they blow over they may break arrows.
- Take care when shifting targets to avoid tipping them over.
- If the targets are too heavy or may cause injury, do not try to shift them yourself. Ask for help.
The “Save Money” tip: Never shift a target while arrows are still in it.
Hot weather precaution
- Please wear sun protection.
- Wear a hat.
- Uses sunscreen. The club also provides free sun lotion for members.
- Watch for signs of dehydration. The urine colour charts in the toilets to help you self-monitor.
- Drink plenty of water. There is free filtered tank water in the kitchen and also cold drinks for sale in the fridge.
- While on the field take every opportunity to retreat to the shades between ends.
- Sit out an end or two from time to time when you’re just practising.
- Remember this is sport by choice, so in very hot weather it is sometimes better to sit it out in the shade and spectate.
- If you are acting as DOS hold breaks between distances or ends.
- There are ceiling fans in the lunch area.
With summer also comes the risk of storms and strong winds …
- Never shoot outside as a storm approaches.
- Do not shelter under trees in windy weather.
Purchasing your first bow
New members are encouraged not to go out and buy a bow until you have spoken to a coach. It is recommended that you hire equipment for the first two months and then see a coach to get measured and to discuss the options.
When you do have a new bow, book in advance with a coach to obtain help with setting it up for the first time. This can be done on most Saturday mornings, booking via email is preferred.
Please be aware that arrows must in general be matched both to the bow and to the archer’s draw length.