FAQ's:
Who do I call if I have questions?
Answer: To become involved in the Junior Olympic Archery Development is easy. If you have questions you need answers for right away call Kathy Miller the membership chairman she will be glade to provide any information you need.
I don't know anything about archery, can I join JOAD?
Answer: Yes you will start in the beginners class and be allowed to progress at your own pace.
Do I have to own a bow and other equipment?
Answer: No, you will be provided with equipment appropriate for beginner lessons. A $5.00 session fee is required if you are not a registered member. If you join Chicagoland JOAD the equipment use is free!
Is this style of archery good if I want to hunt or shoot 3-D's someday?
Answer: Yes, because the instruction focus on first teaching you to be a good archer, you will be better prepared to learn bow hunting or any other form of archery later.
Will I get help when buying my own equipment?
Answer: Yes, at the appropriate time in your development instructors will work with you to select the correct equipment for you.
What about cost, this type of archery equipment is very expensive is it not?
Answer: We have a used equipment database, this is equipment people have out grown. We recommend people first buy used if possible to help keep the cost down. Your instructor will work with you to be sure the equipment is right for you and that it is in good condition. Yes Olympic style archery equipment can be expensive if you just have to have the very latest available.
How often and what time are the classes?
Answer: During the winter and school months we meet once a week on Saturdays. Beginners class is from 12:am to 2:pm. Advanced class is from 2:pm to 5:pm at the indoor range. During the summer regular sessions start at 12:am for both groups and go to 5:pm at the outdoor range.
If I'm a member does my brother or sister have to become a member also?
Answer: No, all memberships are family memberships. The membership is in the name of a parent or guardian, making all family members club members.
What other organizations must I join?
Answer: As a beginner you do not need to join any organization. When you reach the level where you start learning how to compete you need to join the NAA (National Archery Association).
Can I shoot compound bow or must I switch to recurve?
Answer: Yes you can shoot compound bow in JOAD. Both compound and recurve divisions exist all the way up to and including international competition. However you should understand that only Olympic Recurve Bow is used for Olympic competition currently.
NAA, USOC, IOC, FITA what does all of these organizations have to do with archery?
Answer: Good question, Lets start with Olympic organizations first. The IOC, this is the International Olympic Committee. These folks control every aspect of Olympic competition in the world. They charter member countries and set guidelines for their organizations. The USOC, this is the United States Olympic Committee, every country participating in Olympic competition must be chartered by the IOC and must have in their country a governing body. In the USA the USOC is the governing body reporting to the IOC.
Now lets look at archery organizations, FITA Federation Internationale de Tir a l'Arc (International Target Archery Federation) Just as their name implies this organization controls and set rules for target archery competition in the world. They set the agenda for international tournaments and charter member countries. The NAA (National Archery Association) is recognized by FITA as the national governing body for target archery in the USA. Also read the information on the NAA's web site about affiliate organizations.
I like talking with others about archery, any web based talk groups?
Answer: Yes, the best site we know of is the Sagittarius Archery Blackboard, this chat board attracts very knowledgeable people who will discuss any archery related issues you like.
How can I learn more about target archery?
Answer: Check the resources page on this web site for books, videos, and links about archery.
Send questions to Head Coach Ron McCormick