San Antonio, January 16, 2026
The 20th Annual Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship will be held March 20-21, 2026, at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio. With divisions for students in grades 4-12, this event emphasizes skill development, community engagement, and teamwork, attracting around 5,000 young archers. The championship not only promotes competition but also aims to inspire valuable life skills, with top performers qualifying for the NASP National Tournament in Utah.
San Antonio, TX – The upcoming 20th Annual Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship promises to be an outstanding display of skill and community spirit. Scheduled for March 20–21, 2026, at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio, this event signifies both the growing popularity of archery among Texas youth and the resurgence of community-driven activities. With careful planning from local organizers and the involvement of statewide partnerships, the championship is poised to attract thousands of enthusiastic young archers from across the state.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), working in conjunction with the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), has successfully fostered an environment where disciplined training meets the thrill of competition. This structure ensures that students from 4th to 12th grade can take part in both Bullseye and 3D archery events, showcasing not just individual talent, but also the collaborative spirit that comes from teamwork in sports.
### The Transformative Impact of NASP
Since its inception in 2004, the NASP program has provided a platform that enables young Texans to engage in archery. In 2025, nearly 5,000 students participated in the championships, illustrating a robust growth trajectory for the initiative. Archery is more than just a sport; it shapes valuable life skills such as discipline, focus, and collaboration among peers. This program offers a perfect blend of competition and personal development, fostering a generation of confident and resilient young people.
### Competition Divisions and Structure
The championship is divided into three competitive divisions: Elementary (4th–5th grade), Middle School (6th–8th grade), and High School (9th–12th grade). This age-based structure allows athletes to compete against their peers, enhancing the sense of fair play and community. By encouraging students to strive for excellence in a supportive environment, organizers are setting the stage for future champions.
### Pathway to National Tournament
Top-performing archers and teams at the state level will have the exciting opportunity to qualify for the NASP National Tournament, which is set for April 23–25, 2026, in Sandy, Utah. The journey to this national event not only underscores the athletes’ hard work but also instills a sense of pride in their ability to represent San Antonio and the state of Texas on a larger stage.
### Venue Preparedness – Freeman Coliseum
The Freeman Coliseum, located at 3201 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78219, will serve as the championship venue. With its ample facilities, the coliseum is well-suited to accommodate the anticipated influx of participants and spectators. Hosting such a significant event in a capable venue shows the city’s commitment to enriching local culture and promoting youth sports.
### Key Considerations for Participants
For archers considering participation, it is vital to note that the Texas State Championships coincide with the AISD Spring Break, scheduled for March 16–20, 2026. Competitors will need to plan accordingly and attend at least one practice session prior to the event. The preparation reinforces the importance of commitment and practice, laying the groundwork for a successful competition.
### Supporting Student Participation Through NASP
The NASP program continues to champion youth participation by providing comprehensive training and loaner equipment. With a focus on safety and structured activities, it ensures that all students, regardless of skill level, can engage in archery. This inclusivity is a cornerstone of the program, highlighting the importance of broad access to sports in building strong community ties.
As the February event approaches, organizers are putting the finishing touches in place to ensure an enjoyable and successful championship. This gathering is not just a competition; it embodies a collective commitment to youth engagement in sports, fostering a positive and encouraging environment.
For those wishing to explore participation, opportunities abound—whether one is an aspiring archer or a community member looking to cheer on these young athletes. Engaging with local events like this enriches the community and strengthens bonds among residents.
### Conclusion
The 20th Annual Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship is set to be a hallmark event in San Antonio, showcasing the dedication of local organizers and the vibrant spirit of youth in Texas. As we look forward to this celebration of skill and teamwork, we invite everyone in the community to support such initiatives and stay connected in fostering a culture of athleticism and personal achievement.
### FAQ Section
- What is the Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship?
- The Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship is an annual event organized by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in partnership with the National Archery in the Schools Program. It offers students from 4th to 12th grade the opportunity to compete in Bullseye and 3D archery events.
- When and where is the 20th Annual Championship taking place?
- The 20th Annual Championship is scheduled for March 20–21, 2026, at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio, Texas.
- How many students participated in the 2025 state championships?
- In 2025, nearly 5,000 students participated in the state championships, reflecting the program’s significant growth since its inception in 2004.
- What are the divisions in the championship?
- The competition is divided into three divisions: Elementary (4th–5th grade), Middle School (6th–8th grade), and High School (9th–12th grade).
- How can students qualify for the NASP National Tournament?
- Top-performing archers and teams at the state level have the chance to qualify for the NASP National Tournament, which is scheduled for April 23–25, 2026, in Sandy, Utah.
- What is the Freeman Coliseum’s role in the championship?
- The Freeman Coliseum, located at 3201 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78219, will serve as the venue for the championship, accommodating the large number of participants and spectators expected at the event.
- What should archers know about the Texas State Championships?
- Archers wishing to compete at State should plan accordingly, as AISD Spring Break is March 16–20. Archers traveling to State will be expected to attend at least one practice prior to State.
- How does the NASP program support student participation?
- The NASP program introduces students to archery through fun, safe, and structured activities, providing comprehensive training, loaner equipment, and safety protocols to ensure participation for students of all abilities and skill levels.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 20th Annual Texas-National Archery in the Schools Championship |
| Dates | March 20–21, 2026 |
| Location | Freeman Coliseum, San Antonio, TX |
| Organizers | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, National Archery in the Schools Program |
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