The Demmer Center welcomed athletes and coaches from across the country June 12–14 as the USA Archery North Region hosted a regional camp focused on athlete development, mentorship and community building. 

Building Skills and Community 
The three-day camp brought together archers ages 13 to 18 from 13 states, giving participants the opportunity to work with experienced coaches while connecting with fellow athletes who share similar goals and experiences. 

According to Brandon Wright, head coach for the North Region Regional Program for USA Archery, athletes must meet qualifying standards and apply to participate in the camp. 

"What this is, is what we would classify as a high-performance camp," Wright said. "Athletes have to apply to make this team. They have to shoot qualifying scores and be at a certain level of skill. Then we bring them together and give them access to high levels of coaching to help them take that next step." 

Throughout the weekend, coaches observed athletes, discussed individual goals and developed plans to help participants continue growing both during and after the camp. Rather than replacing an athlete's coach back home, Wright said the regional program aims to serve as an additional resource and source of support. 

While skill development remains a key component of the camp, organizers emphasized the experience extends beyond competition. Athletes participated in activities focused on mental management and handling pressure, helping them build confidence both on and off the range. 

For coaches and participants alike, the opportunity to gather in one place creates valuable connections that can last well beyond the weekend. 

"It's a great opportunity for young archers and coaches to meet each other, make friends and learn," said Chelsea Wong, who participated in the coach observation program for the first time this year. "The culture here is very professional, and you're going to learn a lot of things." 

Playing a Supporting Role 
Looking at the broader impact, Director of the Auxiliary Sports Group Jeff Latinen shared why hosting the camp matters for athletes. "It's always a good thing when we can host a nationally recognized program at one of our facilities. We are thrilled to give these archers the chance to develop at Demmer." 

The camp highlighted the role facilities such as the Demmer Center play in supporting athletes at every stage of their development. By hosting events that draw participants from across the region, the facility creates opportunities for learning, growth and connection both on and off the range. 

"Larger events and camps bring young archers to MSU and the Demmer Facility, promoting the sport of archery, self-learning, confidence and motivation to work toward achievements/goals," said Casey Christman, manager of the Demmer Shooting and Education Facility. 

Christman said the facility serves a wide range of participants, from beginners learning the fundamentals of the sport to experienced competitors pursuing higher levels of achievement. "The Demmer Center provides a space for archers of all skill levels to learn and participate in a sport which allows individuals of all ages to partake." 

Lasting Connections 
Wright said the sense of community is what makes the program special and encourages athletes to return year after year. 

"I think the main thing for this team is the community that the kids have created," Wright said. "If one of these athletes gets eliminated early, they're still there supporting their teammates." 

The impact of the program was evident as Wright reflected on the community athletes have built through the camp. Tearing up while speaking, he described the support participants show one another and the lasting relationships they form.

"These kids are going to be together the rest of their life. Why not become friends? Why not become a community?" 

By hosting events such as the USA Archery Regional Camp, the Demmer Center continues to provide a space where athletes, coaches and visitors from across the country can learn, grow and build meaningful connections while experiencing all that Michigan State University has to offer. 

Author: Charlotte Riddiford