For years, the Lancaster Classic was circled on the calendar as just “another big shoot". It was a great weekend, but just one stop among many. Well, I’ve been talking to the Archers on the ground (including a Classic Champion), and I’m here to tell you: The game has changed.

Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport, the parent of a rising star, or a seasoned Archer on the line, you need to understand why Lancaster is no longer just a destination. It is the definitive proving ground. Let’s get into why the 2026 Lancaster Classic has officially become the gold standard of competition. It is also one of our favourite tournaments.

Key Takeaways & Highlights

• The "Place to Be" Verdict: Why Archers now consider the Lancaster Classic the definitive hub for community and high-level skill development.
• Innovation on the Line: Discussion on the new Mixed Team Event and the high-pressure "Shoot-Up" finals format that has turned the weekend into a do-not-miss spectator sport.
• The 660 Quest: Why the $20,000 perfect score bonus has every Archer in the building holding their breath during Qualification rounds. (Please, do not hold your breath during the Qualifications.)
• More than Competition: The Classic has become a major key to Archer development. See how Lancaster is helping set competitor’s up for success and even the 2028 LA Olympics.

00:00 Introduction to the Lancaster Classic

01:38 The Magic of the Lancaster Classic

06:19 Unique Features of the Tournament

07:31 The Growth of Barebow and Longbow Categories

08:59 The Exciting Mixed Team Event

10:23 The Finals Venue Experience

12:55 The Importance of Name Pronunciation

15:53 Memorable Moments at the Classic

17:06 Community and Support in Competition

19:08 The Team Behind the Classic

20:19 Accommodations and Local Insights

23:05 Vendor Opportunities at the Classic

24:54 Prize Structure and Payouts

27:06 Addressing Gender Disparities in Prizes

30:14 Doping Control at the Classic

31:23 Conclusion and Community Spirit

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

• Official Results & Payouts: Lancaster Archery Classic Official Site
• Tournament Live Stream: Catch the 2026 Finals on the Lancaster Archery YouTube channel

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Discover why your Archer’s next performance boost might start at their feet, not their bow. In this special episode of The Archery Parent Podcast, Manisha sits down with her son, Canadian National Recurve Team member Reece Wilson‑Poyton, to break down the often-overlooked gear that underpins every shot: SHOES.

Reece shares how the wrong footwear can quietly sabotage balance, stability, and scores. You’ll hear why cushy running shoes can make your Archer feel wobbly at full draw, why top Archers use low‑drop, wide toe‑box shoes, and how to choose a dedicated pair of “range shoes”.

Together, Manisha and Reece walk through real‑world advice for parents and Archers:

• Find out Reece's Top 3 shoe recommendations from personal experience and world-ranked Archers
• Hear how footwear affects proprioception, weight distribution, and long‑day steadiness
• Discover how shoes can quietly make or break balance, stability, and scores
• Learn why low‑drop, wide toe‑box shoes beat other shoe options
• Guidance on budget, the reasoning behind dedicated range shoes, and replacement tips
• Why shoe choice becomes more important as and Archer's body awareness increases

If you’ve ever wondered whether shoes really matter in Archery, this episode is your practical guide to building a more stable shot from the ground up.

This is Part 1 of a two-part series with Reece. In the next episode, Reece breaks down beginner equipment so Archers can head to the pro shop with confidence. Share with one other Archery parent.

Read the "Shoes that Stabilize: Reece's Range-tested Picks" comprehensive episode recap at www.archeryparentpodcast.ca

Connect with the Archery Parent Podcast:

Instagram: @ArcheryParentPodcast

TikTok: @ArcheryParentPod

Web: ArcheryParentPodcast.ca

Email: ArcheryParentPodcast[at]gmail.com

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ATTRIBUTION:

Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, for "The Archery Parent Podcast".

MUSIC: "The Stranger"

ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dawn Groszko: Fostering Archery at the Rocky Mountain Classic

In this episode of The Archery Parent Podcast, Manisha welcomes Dawn Grozsko, Archer, coach, and organizer of the the Rocky Mountain Classic.

The event, scheduled for January 2nd to 4th, 2026, welcomes Archers under 25. Dawn highlights its unique offerings, including match play and team events, which are rare for youth tournaments in Canada.

This episode covers the tournament's evolution, registration details, and what first-time participants can expect. It also emphasizes the importance of youth development in Canada and provides practical travel tips for Archers attending.

This episode will be released after the deadline for 2026. If you’re still interested in attending, contact event organizers*, or plan on attending in 2027. (*NOTE: There is no guarantee that registration will be re-opened.)

00:00 Welcome to the Archery Parent Podcast

00:56 Introducing Dawn Grozsko and the Rocky Mountain Classic

01:23 The Origin and Evolution of the Rocky Mountain Classic

02:39 Event Details and Logistics

04:36 The Importance of Match Play in Archery

06:14 Core Values and Mission of the Rocky Mountain Classic

10:15 Categories and Bow Disciplines

16:11 NASP and Youth Archery Programs

17:37 Ensuring a Fun and Supportive Environment

20:04 Life Skills and Feedback from the Rocky Mountain Classic

21:23 Advice for First-Time Rocky Mountain Classic Parents

22:03 The Importance of Youth Development

22:54 Encouraging Positive Mindsets in Young Archers

26:51 The Role of Volunteers in Archery Events

28:07 Preparing for Away Tournaments

34:41 Travel Tips for Archers

40:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Tournament Information & Registration

• Official Website: jimbowsjuniors.ca
• Contact Email: jjacshoots{at}gmail.com
• Location: Abbey Centre, Blackfalds, Alberta (approx. two hours north of Calgary)
• Facebook Pages for Results:
• JJAC Facebook Page
• Archery Alberta Facebook Page

Official Results:

• IANSEO: Results will be listed here following the competition

For a comprehensive recap, extra tips, and resources for this episode and the Rocky Mountain Classic event, visit our blog.

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For more episodes, visit archeryparentpodcast.ca. We’re doing this one arrow at a time.

ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, for Season 1 of "The Archery Parent Podcast".

MUSIC: "The Stranger"

ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Supporting Young Athletes: Insights from Dr. Jennifer Harris on Sport Parenting

What if the key to your athlete's success isn't more expensive equipment or extra coaching, but changes in YOUR behaviour?

Dr. Jennifer Harris, founder of Raising Happy Champs, shares her journey from Gymnastics Mom to Sport Psychology PhD, revealing shocking gaps in parent education and the research-backed "SUPER-P Approach" that's transforming how families navigate competitive sports.

Learn about the Coach-Athlete-Parent Triangle, why expression of pride matters more than analysis, how parental expectations link to athlete anxiety, and practical strategies for supporting your athlete through both triumph and devastating disappointment. Whether your Archer is just starting out or competing internationally, this conversation will change how you show up for them

The episode concludes with practical travel tips for parents and their athletes and resources for engaging with Dr. Harris's program.

00:00 Welcome to the Archery Parent Podcast

00:48 Introducing Dr. Jennifer Harris

01:38 The Journey of Raising Happy Champs

02:50 The Importance of Sport Parent Education

04:14 Developing the SUPER-P Approach

10:31 The Coach-Athlete-Parent Triangle

16:04 Parental Expectations and the link to Athlete Anxiety

22:30 Acknowledging the Challenges of Sport Parenting

26:28 Parents as Coaches: Balancing Roles and Switching Hats

27:46 The Importance of Positive Communication between Athlete and Parent

29:22 The 70% Who Benefit from Sport Parent Education

30:16 Extreme Behaviours in Sport Parenting

32:13 The Need for Sport Parent Education

36:35 The SUPER-P Approach: A Non-Judgmental Workshop

38:41 Practical Tips for Sport Parents

39:00 Vision for the “SUPER-P" Program

Special Offers:

• Use promo code "archery20" for 20% off a SUPER-P workshop
• If you refer your club and they book the SUPER-P Club workshop, Raising Happy Champs will send you a £50 Amazon gift card.

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ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, as the theme song for "The Archery Parent Podcast".

MUSIC: "The Stranger"

ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Parent's Guide to WAYC (Winnipeg 2025)

This episode is a comprehensive guide for parents and Archers about the upcoming World Archery Youth Championships (WAYC) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, August 17–24. Manisha, Kelly Taylor (Chair, WAYC2025), and Aaron Bull (President, Archery Canada) discuss the event's background, logistics, tips for families, and the significance of youth championships in an Archer’s development.

Key Topics Covered:

• Event Background:
• The World Archery Youth Championships is for U18 and U21 Archers in Recurve and Compound categories
• It is held every two years
• Winnipeg’s successful bid is the collaborative effort between Archery Manitoba, Archery Canada, and local organizations

• Winnipeg as Host City:
• Attractions: The Forks, Exchange District, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Park Zoo, and local restaurants
• Indigenous community involvement and historical significance of The Forks

• Event Logistics:
• Over 575 Archers from 64 countries
• Accommodation: Multiple hotels
• Transportation: Shuttle services, airport transfers, and local transit tips
• Tickets: Available at wayc2025.com ($10/day, $30 finals, $100 all-access)

• Competition Details:
• Schedule: Practice on August 17, qualifications and eliminations through the week, Finals on the weekend
• Finals at The Forks, a site of deep historical and cultural importance
• Live scoring on IANSEO.net; Finals broadcast on Archery+

• Tips for Parents and Archers:
• Travel light but bring essentials (sunscreen, cash, eSim, adapters, rain gear.
• Be open to new experiences and cultures
• Understand the "no equipment failure" and "no medical" rules
• Bring backup equipment and consider pin/jersey trading
• Importance of setting realistic goals and learning from the experience

• Significance of Youth Championships:
• A critical step in an Archer’s development, offering experience under pressure
• Qualification processes and the importance of meeting Minimum Qualifying Scores (MQS)
• Advice on building community and gaining experience at national and international events

• Special Events:
• World of Archery Gala for Archers
• Indigenous artisans showcasing their work
• “Try Archery” booths at the venues
• Event merchandise and collectible pins

Resources & Links:

• Event website: wayc2025.com
• Archery Canada: archerycanada.ca
• Live scoring: IANSEO.net
• Finals broadcast: Archery+

Contact:

• For volunteering, tickets, and more info, visit the event website.
• Follow Archery Canada on social media.

Final Thoughts:

The WAYC in Winnipeg is set to be a memorable event for Archers, families, and the community. It’s an opportunity to experience world-class Archery, build connections, and celebrate the sport’s future stars.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to transform from a nervous Archer into a confident competitor who can perform under the world's most intense pressure? The answer might surprise you. It has nothing to do with "feeling good" or "faking it".

Join us for a revealing conversation with Joe Leszner, the Mental Performance Consultant who became an internet sensation during the 2023 World Archery Championships in Berlin. Joe shares the strategies that helped Canadian Archers achieve breakthrough performances on the world's biggest stages, from his work with Olympic and Paralympic athletes to his role in Team Canada's historic bronze medal win at the 2024 Yecheon World Cup.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why Joe's "net neutral" philosophy changes everything about how we think about support systems in Archery

• The truth about emotions and performance: why athletes "don't need to feel good to be good"

• How being the underdog became Team Canada's secret weapon at the 2024 World Cup

• Why "fake it 'til you make it" actually hurts performance and what to do instead

• The strategic psychology behind "the Plan" in Berlin (from the high-fives to the "I love you, Sjef!")

• Practical tools for navigating Archery's unique mental challenges, like the "Archer's Kryptonite"

Joe brings impressive credentials to his unconventional approach. But, it's his practical, real-world approach that sets him apart from traditional sports psychology. Whether you're a parent supporting a development Archer or working with athletes competing on the world stage, Joe's insights challenge conventional thinking about mental performance and offer practical tools that can benefit Archers at every level.

His philosophy embraces the Archer's journey focussing on seeking progress rather than demanding perfection.

It's a balance that proves essential for long-term success and enjoyment in this demanding sport.

Connect with Joe Leszner:

Email: jleszner[@]gmail.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-leszner-2b5445284

Instagram: @jleszner

Connect with the Archery Parent Podcast:

Website: www.archeryparentpodcast.com

Instagram: @archeryparentpodcast

Resources mentioned in this episode:

YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve Quarterfinal 2. November 19, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Steve Willer (NED): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7515_1H7RE

YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve Semifinal. November 21, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Arif Pangestu (INA): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CCQP3eVRno

YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve GOLD Medal Final. November 23, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Mete Gazoz (TUR): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3RiKfS3GE4

YouTube: World Archery - Canada's Controversial Coaching. https://youtu.be/6mlnEpPGE_Q?si=GpLNP2Xk-kNqnyrZ

Book: How Champions Think by Bob Rotella. https://www.simonandschuster.ca/books/How-Champions-Think/Bob-Rotella/9781476788654

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Archery Parent Podcast, host Manisha talks to Eleanor Rodriguez, also known as Sporty Eleanor.

Eleanor shares her journey in Archery, including her struggles with target panic, her approach to overcoming it, and how a new coaching perspective can change everything. She discusses the impact of parental pressure on young archers and provides advice for parents to support their children effectively. Eleanor also talks about her unique path to gaining sponsorships through social media, the challenges women face in the sport, and her future plans in archery and coaching.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:25 Understanding Target Panic

02:26 Personal Experience with Target Panic

04:12 Overcoming Target Panic

07:23 Support and Coaching

11:26 Parental Pressure and Archery

15:13 Resilience in Archery

19:26 Social Media and Sponsorship

27:51 Realizing the Potential of Sponsorships

28:15 Listing and Discussing Sponsors

28:52 Responsibilities with New Equipment

31:45 Social Media Obligations

33:23 Advice for Parents of Young Archers

36:44 Staying Authentic on Social Media

Eleanor’s story is a testament to resilience - showing that setbacks are part of every archer’s journey, and with patience and support, it’s possible to come back stronger than ever.

Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode offers hope and practical insights for anyone facing their own battles with performance anxiety.

Connect with Eleanor Rodriguez (aka Sporty Eleanor):

Instagram: @Sporty_Eleanor

Website: ArcheryByEleanor.com

Linktree: Sporty_Eleanor

Resources: Social Media Tips

Connect with Manisha, Host & Producer of the Archery Parent Podcast:

Instagram: @archeryparentpodcast

YouTube: @archeryparentpodcast

Website: ArcheryParentPodcast.ca

LinkPop: ArcheryParentPodcast

ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers

MUSIC: "The Stranger"

ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.