Kids learn archery at Fort Myers park

FORT MYERS, Fla.- Once a week, for two hours, a couple of coaches take the time to teach kids as young as 5 years old how to shoot a bow and arrow.

“Just relax your arms, pull it back and if you get a bow and arrow in a target, you just let me know,” said Abigail Broderick.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Youth Activity League provides the supplies. For just $35, kids can get lessons for 12 weeks by two certified coaches.

The young archers flock to the field, flex their fiber glass bows and hope for the best. If they cross the shooting line too early, it’s five pushups, but the young athletes don’t seem to mind.

“You need your muscle to pull it back,” said Broderick, referring to the arrow. “And you need your veggies,” she concluded.

One parent said it helped his son get active.

“(He) wanted to work on his form,” said Peter Kilpatrick, “so he could come here and shoot the bow which is not something I’ve been able to do with him before, motivating him to workout on his own.”

Aside from learning how to shoot a bow and arrow, the course encourages respect and helps the youngsters gain confidence.

“Even if they just hit the target and they’ve never hit it before, their faces light up. It’s an immediate accomplishment,” said Coach Jeff Peterman.

It also keeps the kids coming back for more.

“Keep trying hard,” said Robert Broderick, “Keep trying to work up to a bulls-eye. I’m not giving up. I’m going to keep doing it.”

For more information on the archery club, visit the Lee County Parks & Recreation page.