NASP

National Archery in the Schools Program

Mathews is a founding sponsor of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), providing almost two million dollars in support in support over the past six years.  With Mathews overwhelming support, what began as a joint venture between state Departments of Education and Wildlife has grown into a national phenomenon. The program promotes student education and participation in the life-long sport of archery by providing International-style target training in physical education classes for students in grades 4-12.   Since its beginning in 2002, over 3.2 million students from 4,700 schools in 46 states and 5 countries have participated in NASP.

Department of Education Objective

 Engage more students in the educational process to improve classroom performance and reduce dropout rates. The national school dropout rate is 10%.  Most students (88%) who drop out of school indicate they were not involved in extra-curricular activities.  The primary reason for NASP’s success is that archery is accessible to nearly all students, including many with disabilities.  Educators are reporting that the NASP “engages the unengaged” and inspires students to greater achievement in school.

Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources Objective

Increase participation in the shooting sports.  Declining participation in the shooting sports threatens financial and public support for wildlife conservation.  NASP has been successful in teaching over 2 million students during school hours.  Many of these young people will decide to make archery a life sport.

In NASP units and afterschool programs, students embrace the challenge of shooting at bulls-eye targets backed by an arrow-resistant net in their gymnasium.  State-of-the art equipment designed to fit every student is provided by Mathews and other archery manufacturers.  NASP was originally conceived as a method of promoting and expanding the sport of archery in schools, but teachers and administrators quickly realized that the additional benefits to its participants reveal the real story behind the explosive success of NASP.  Below are some of many testimonials to the life-changing power of NASP.  Overall, NASP improves school attendance and discipline, fosters self-confidence and engages students who might otherwise fall through the cracks of our education system.  Mathews continues heavy support of the program and encourage others within and outside the archery industry to join the effort.  Matt McPherson said, “If I can impact one kid’s life, it’s all worth it,” but with an army of teachers and the major players in the industry working together to spread the benefits of NASP, the potential impact is monumental.