Striking Bullseye at the 2023 MSAA Indoor Tournament

CARLTON, Minn. — “You get up to the line. Anxiety sets in. You start shaking and you got to overcome those nerves,” said the Intramural President of the Minnesota State Archery Association Paul Parsons. “It’s a very disciplined sport.”

In 1939, the Minnesota State Archery Association started bringing together a strong community of archers. And hundreds of those with the passion for the sport were shooting Sunday in Carlton, for the MSAA 2023 Indoor State Tournament. 

“This year we had about 599 scores turned in from our regional shoot, which was held back in January/February. And that is basically their invite to this shoot,” said Parsons.

Archers were separated into peer groups and bow types to ensure everyone is on the same playing field. 

Although many of those shooting Sunday have years competing in the sport, the MSAA says that it’s easy for anyone to start learning the discipline.

“My recommendation would be to reach out to a local pro shop or a local archery club. We have them scattered throughout the whole state of Minnesota,” said Parsons. “There’s hundreds and hundreds of years of experience and knowledge within these clubs and it’s a great place to start.”

On June 10 and 11 the Minnesota State Archery Association will be holding an outdoor competition in Rice, Minn.