Off the Field? Flying Tigers Archery

by Taylor Massey

The Republic High School archery team team had plenty of success at this year’s Flying Tigers Archery Tournament. Two archers from Republic placed in the tournament, held in early February, and as a team, Republic placed first, with 3,247 points out of the possible 3,600. The team competed against seven other local schools and more than 400 archers.

In individual categories, senior Blane Bordwell placed first overall, with 292 points out of 300. Junior Morgan Stoneking took second with a score of 289 in the men’s category.

Archery tournaments around the area have experienced small changes due to COVID-19, just as other sports or organizations have. However, the tournament and after school practices for Republic were able to be similar to past years. Stoneking said despite new protocol, the tournament and this year have been beneficial for the team.

“I believe the tournament went very well. We got lots of good feedback from the other teams and it was an all-around good experience. There was a little bit of a change from masks and just trying to keep everyone six feet apart, but overall it wasn’t that different.”

Besides archery, the Republic Air Force JROTC has various opportunities for any student interested in the military. They offer four other after school clubs: Marksmanship, Drill Team, Color Guard, and Aerospace Club.

Stoneking also said that JROTC can be a great experience for students who aren’t planning on entering the military after high school.

“I enjoy many things about the JROTC program. I get to learn about the history of the military and the instructors don’t push you to join the military. They are always there to help and I feel like I met people I wouldn’t have normally if I wasn’t in it.”