shot just shy of the coveted score with 290 points.
All competitors use the same brand and type of bow,
the Genesis Original, created by Mathews Company. All
arrows are the same as well. By everyone using the same
equipment, McDonald said, “It levels the playing field
and it all comes down to skill.”
More than just a coach, McDonald has enjoyed the
ancient sport since he was a teenager.
“I’ve been around archery most of my life,”
McDonald said.
McDonald’s father, a prolific marksman, invented
a stabilizer for use in hunting and tournament-type
shooting. To get some exposure for his invention, he
began attending tournaments as a competitor.
“He started shooting and winning, so I started to
participate with him,” McDonald said.
His father and mother are award-winning archers,
both having been world champions and multiple-time
national champions. Both are also Oklahoma Archery
Hall of Fame inductees.
“I had a pretty good coach,” McDonald said.
The Brock Archery team is currently practicing to
qualify for the state tournament, which will be held in
March. In December, the team will have to post and turn
in high enough scores to the NASP to qualify for state.
They are also planning to host their own tournament in
November to allow their students more practice.
Although archery is not a UIL-sanctioned sport, other
districts in the area including Millsap, Poolville and
Lipan have archery teams. In Brock, 60 kids attended the
first day of practice this year. The benefit to students is
far-reaching, McDonald said.
“It exposes them to the outdoor elements,” he
said. “It also teaches the kids a lot about themselves.
If they shoot and hit the target for the very first time,
they are excited and amazed. It builds their self-esteem.
As they progress they can set short- and long-term
goals. It teaches them a lot of patience. It takes a lot of
concentration and focus.”
Daily chef specials
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321 E. Oak St., Weatherford
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PA R K E R C O U N T Y T O D AY
On Tap
OCTOBER 2015
45 Craft Beers
55