A local Christian homeschool co-op, Covenant Family Koinonia (CFK), is hitting its mark as its third-year shooting sports program gains strong momentum.
Participation has risen to 25 students in grades four through 12, with families traveling from communities including West Plains, Eminence, Willow Springs, Alton, Mtn. Grove, Pomona and Birch Tree. The program’s steady growth reflects a rising interest in archery across the region, said team coaches.
Archery itself is rapidly expanding statewide. Recently designated as Missouri’s official state sport, it has become one of the fastest-growing youth activities, supported in part by organizations like the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Student-athletes train in both bullseye (target-style) and 3D archery, developing precision while also building focus, discipline and perseverance. While many participants enjoy hunting, others are drawn to the sport for its competitive and recreational opportunities.
The team is led by certified coaches Lance Barton, Jessalyn Strick, Shaun Olsen and Charlie Brownley, who are trained through the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) and Centershot Ministries. Coaches incorporate faith-based lessons into practices, using archery to reinforce biblical principles and character development.
Throughout the season, CFK archers competed in multiple regional tournaments. Eleven team members qualified for the state-level NASP competition in Branson this past March. One student, Blake Barton, advanced even further and is scheduled to compete at the national level in Kentucky this May.
The program also recognizes the support of its sponsors: EnhanceCo, Hirsch Feed & Farm Supply, K-Town Food Truck and Real Wood Floors.
