All members of our team have passed background checks and are Safe Sport Certified
James Wilson
Welcome to the world of Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) program and Adult Archery
Program! I am James R. Wilson, USA Archery Level 3 Coach, Instructor Trainer for Level 1 & 2
Instructor Certifications, Competition Judge Level 1 & 2, and I am dedicated to honing the skills and
techniques of aspiring archers. With years of experience as an educator to middle and high school
students, competitor, and mentor, I am passionate about guiding individuals to achieve their fullest
potential in this elegant and ancient sport.
My journey in archery began as a teen when I was captivated by the graceful precision of the bow and
arrow. Growing up, I immersed myself in the world of archery, spending countless hours refining my
skills on the range and participating in local competitions. These formative years instilled in me a deep
appreciation for the discipline and dedication required to excel in this sport.
As an educator I was eager to expand my knowledge and expertise, I pursued formal training with
USA Archery and mastered certifications in archery coaching, instruction, and competition judging.
Through hours of rigorous coursework and hands-on experience, I gained insights into the intricacies
of archery technique, biomechanics, and mental preparation. Additionally, I sought mentorship from
seasoned coaches and athletes, further enriching my understanding of the sport.
My coaching approach is based on a holistic understanding of the athlete. I believe in fostering a
supportive, respectful, and nurturing environment where individuals can thrive both on and off the
range. My coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of technical proficiency, mental resilience,
and physical conditioning. Through personalized instruction and tailored training programs, I empower
archers to unlock their full potential and achieve their goals.
Throughout my coaching career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse array of athletes,
from beginners taking their first shot to elite competitors. I take pride in the successes of my students,
celebrating their milestones and accomplishments as they progress in their archery journey. Whether
it's mastering a new technique, achieving a personal best, or finishing in the top 10 at archery
tournaments, each achievement is a testament to their dedication and hard work.
My coaching services cater to archers of all levels, offering individualized training schedules, and
training programs tailored to each athlete's specific needs and goals. Whether you are an adult novice,
JOAD beginner, intermediate, advanced archer, or a seasoned competitor aiming to sharpen your skills,
I provide comprehensive instruction in archery techniques, equipment selection, mental preparation,
and competition strategy. I offer group JOAD classes, private lessons, USA Archery Level 1 and 2
Instructors Certification sessions, and clinics for clubs, schools, and organizations interested in
promoting the sport of archery.
Archers can join me on a journey of discovery and mastery as we explore the art and science of archery
together. Whether you are drawn to the thrill of competition, the tranquility of target shooting, or
simply the joy of hitting the bullseye, I am committed to helping you realize your aspirations and
unlock your full potential as an archer. Let us “Take Aim” and shoot for greatness!
Richard Howard
Richard first picked up a bow as a teenager in Queensland, Australia, and hasn’t looked back since. He is a USA Archery Level 1 and 2 Instructor, and an Instructor Trainer, since 2021. In this capacity, he has instructed many students at beginner and intermediate level for all the main divisions of archery competition including Barebow and traditional archery, Olympic Recurve, and Compound. While Richard competes when he can, especially in Indoor Barebow 18m, especially at the Lancaster Classic and the Vegas Shoot each year, he most particularly enjoys traditional bow hunting. Richard is also a certified and experienced Level 2 Archery Competition Judge for USA Archery having judged various competitions including the CT Nutmeg Games in 2023.
Richard moved to Connecticut from New York City in 2020 after 15 years living in Manhattan. Over the years, his professional life has seen him living in England, Germany, Austria, Croatia, and Brazil, and of course his native Australia before moving to the US in 2005. He proudly calls the US and Connecticut home now. He is married with a daughter.
Michael Martin
Michael Martin is a USA Archery Level 2 instructor as well as certified Fencing Coach. As owner of Way of the Sword he is committed to developing a competitive community with a line of succession from novice to NCAA.
Having achieved great results in fencing over the last 10 years, Coach Mike will take that knowledge and apply it to the WAY archery programs.
Take aim!