Whether you are a Robin Hood fan or just want to try something new, you’ve got to check out this newer sport that is addictively fun! The first time you shoot a bow, you will be hooked. And thanks to Amy Johnson, executive director of Joshua 1:9, Extreme Archery Tag can be brought to your next event.
Joshua 1:9 is a nonprofit organization that builds community through education and recreational adventures. The nonprofit has outdoor school; three homeschool communities; classes like floorball and archery tag; a mountain biking club; a kayaking club; ski bus; and more!
While there are two other licensed archery tag providers in Thurston County, Amy’s organization is the only mobile service. “I first played this exciting game at a women’s retreat at Black Lake Bible Camp,” shares Amy. “I knew right away that I wanted to become a licensed provider and offer this experience through our nonprofit.”
They became licensed in 2019. They offer archery tag to homeschool communities, youth groups, camps, and youth and adult classes through the Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation and Tumwater Parks and Recreation Department.
What is Extreme Archery Tag?
Think dodgeball…but with bows and arrows! The arrows have special foam boffers at the end instead of a tip, making them non-lethal. “We use top-of-the-line equipment from the company that invented this product,” Amy says of her arrows. “We do not use the knock-off version.” The goal is to score points by hitting other players.
“I had dabbled in archery as a camper many years ago and enjoyed it,” shares Amy, “but this sport is relatively easy to pick up and is a fantastic workout with ducking, dodging and launching arrows at the other team.”
The court for archery tag is 20-feet by 60 feet, with a team on each side facing each other. There is a 20-foot safety zone between the two teams. Each team has bunkers or obstacles to hide behind. Amy says there are many different games you can play, including elimination, which is just like classic dodgeball, you get hit with an arrow, you are out or for points: 1 point per hit, 2 points per target spot hit and 3 points for catching an arrow!
Archery Tag Classes in Thurston County
If you have never thought about shooting a bow, now is the time with this fun sport! It gets you out, you get to meet new people…and you are exercising without even knowing it!
“This is a fantastic workout where you can make new friends then shoot them,” Amy laughs. “You learn new skills, strategize with your team, and feel the thrill of eliminating the other team or gaining the most points for the win! We have a variety of bows best for ages 7 through adult even grandparents enjoy this activity. We have also provided this to women’s groups. We love the laughter and joy it creates.”
Amy and her crew have three different types of bows for you to try, pro long bows, cadet long bows and recurve bows.
Her classes at the parks and recreation in Lacey and Tumwater are for ages 7 to adult! “We also provide a mobile service where we bring archery tag to your property or park near you,” shares Amy. “It is great for reunions, parties, barbecues, and work parties!”
You can check out their upcoming classes by visiting the Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation and Tumwater Parks and Recreation Department or the Joshua 1:9 Adventures website. Contact them directly to have Extreme Archery Tag at your next event!
