More than 550 student archers from across New York State competed in the 15th annual New York National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP®) State Tournament, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced. Held on March 14 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, the event brought together 558 students from 39 schools.
“We’re thrilled to see more and more schools participating in this tournament, which is a great opportunity to help students put down their phones and tablets, learn a new skill, and get outside,” said DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Congratulations to all who participated in this State Tournament and best of luck to those archers heading to Kentucky for Nationals.”
Students competed in three divisions: High School (grades 9-12), Middle School (grades 6-8), and Elementary School (grades 4-5). Sofia Parrotta of St. Joseph by the Sea secured the title of top female archer with a score of 288, while Jacob Dowdall of Norwich High School claimed the top male archer spot with a score of 289. Both winners received a trophy and a New York Champion Genesis bow with a case and arrows.
St. Joseph by the Sea High School took first place in the High School division, Canaseraga won in the Middle School division, and Arkport claimed the top spot in the Elementary School category.
The first-place individual winners in each category were:
- High School, female: Sofia Parrotta, St. Joseph by the Sea, Staten Island (Score: 288)
- High School, male: Jacob Dowdall, Norwich High School, Norwich (Score: 289)
- Middle School, female: Alexandria Mucciariello, Our Lady Queen of Peace, Staten Island (Score: 271)
- Middle School, male: Braylen Heitman, Genesee Valley Central School, Amity (Score: 279)
- Elementary School, female: Eliana Kropp, Avoca Central School, Avoca (Score: 268)
- Elementary School, male: Easton Beach, Waverly Central School, Waverly (Score: 275)
Students who placed in the top 10 of their divisions have earned the opportunity to compete at the National NASP® Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky, in May.
The New York State NASP® Tournament is exclusively for students who have participated in NASP® archery instruction during in-school classes taught by certified NASP® teachers. Schools interested in joining the program can find more information on the National Archery in the Schools Program website.
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