Before the holiday season, a heartfelt request began circulating among a network of passionate archers and educators. It centered around Colleen, a high school student in New York living with physical challenges from birth. Her wish was simple but powerful—she wanted to participate in her school’s archery program alongside her friends.
The program, run by PE instructor Janelle, serves over 230 students and is part of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). But to make Colleen’s participation possible, adaptive equipment would be necessary.
That’s when a chain of support began. Merritt Compton, along with the Pope and Young Club, reached out to Stephen LaPage, who in turn contacted Marlon Clapham with the Montana Bowhunters Association. Clapham got to work on building a custom system designed just for Colleen.
Using a Genesis Bow—the standard in NASP programs—Marlon crafted a specialized setup that included a built-in release aid in the riser. Once the system was complete in April, it was sent to Merritt, who ensured it was fully equipped with a Draw-Loc and properly adjusted for Colleen’s use.
The final result? Success. Colleen was able to join her friends on the line and take part in the program just like any other student. “Watching the video, she seems to have shooting dialed in,” Clapham noted. “Loads of smiles all around.”
The entire project was funded by the New York Bowhunters Association, whose support made this moment possible.
“This is why we do what we do,” said Clapham. “Helping others get out there with their friends. We can be proud as a group of what we’ve accomplished.”
