When the sun rose over the Bronx on November 25, 2025, Roberto Clemente State Park transformed into a powerful stage of focus, discipline, and youth achievement. Hidden Gems Archery, a leading force in bringing archery programs to New York City schools, proudly hosted the 2nd Annual District 9 Archery Tournament, marking another milestone in the growth of youth archery across the borough.
Last year’s Hidden Gems Archery inaugural 2024 event opened the door for students to experience the excitement of competitive archery. This year, the energy was even higher. With more schools involved, stronger teams, and a growing archery culture in NYC, the 2025 tournament showcased just how far these young athletes have come.
Whether you are a parent, educator, community leader, or archery enthusiast, this recap gives you an inside look at one of the most impactful youth sports events of the year.
A Powerful Return: What Makes the Annual District 9 Archery Tournament Special
The District 9 Archery Tournament isn’t just a competition, it’s a celebration of growth, opportunity, and community. Hidden Gems Archery invites schools across the district to send teams of 10 to 12 archers who have been training throughout the fall.
During the season, students practice form, technique, breathing control, and teamwork. But what they truly take home goes much deeper:
“Archery teaches focus, discipline, and emotional resilience, skills that extend far beyond the range,”
Natasha Green, CEO & Founder, Hidden Gems Archery
This belief drives the Hidden Gems mission: to create learning environments where students feel confident, capable, and connected.
The Growth of Youth Archery in the Bronx at Annual District 9 Archery Tournament
What began as small introductory lessons has evolved into a district-wide youth sports movement. Over the past five years, Hidden Gems Archery has helped District 9 schools:
- Introduce archery to physical education
- Bring archery to after-school programs
- Launch district-level tournaments
- Strengthen social-emotional learning through sport
Educators have seen real improvements in:
- Student concentration
- Peer collaboration
- Motivation and self-esteem
- Classroom behavior
- Physical engagement in PE
A middle school student summed it up perfectly:
“Before I started archery, I got distracted easily. Now I focus better, even when I take tests.”
This tournament represents the hard work, consistency, and pride of students, families, and educators throughout the Bronx.
A Tournament Fueled by Community & Passion
Voices From the Schools
Principal Luis Torres, Community School 55, shared:
“Hidden Gems Archery has grown tremendously since we partnered with them five years ago. Watching our students compete and thrive has been incredible.”
Coaches See the Growth Up Close
Coach Q, one of Hidden Gems’ instructors, added:
“Archery teaches patience and resilience. Our students have embraced those values every day.”
Behind the scenes, coaches help students master breathing techniques, build confidence under pressure, and support one another as a team.
School that participated in the District 9 Tournament held at Roberto Clemente State Park, Bronx, NY on November 25, 2025
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IS 117
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MS 22
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PS 70
Every student who stepped onto the line demonstrated:
- Courage
- Patience
- Focus
- Growth over the season
Their dedication reflects what happens when schools, educators, and organizations work together to elevate youth sports in the Bronx.
Why Archery Matters for Youth Development: Know from Annual District 9 Archery Tournament
Archery is more than a physical activity; it’s a life-changing developmental tool that strengthens the mind, body, and character of young people. As one of the fastest-growing youth sports in the United States, it creates structured, safe, and inspiring spaces where students push themselves, celebrate progress, and discover new abilities.
Many educators call archery a “calming sport,” a rare activity where students must slow down, breathe, focus, and move with intention.
Here’s what makes archery so transformative:
- Enhances Focus & Concentration: Every shot requires students to lock in, breathe, and execute one deliberate action. This strengthens attention span and boosts academic focus.
- Supports Emotional Regulation & Stress Management: Archery teaches students to stay calm under pressure, manage frustration, and try again, building resilience and emotional maturity.
- Boosts Confidence & Self-Esteem: Students can measure progress with every arrow, giving them constant opportunities to see improvement and gain pride in their achievements.
- Improves Posture, Balance & Motor Skills: Archery helps students build better physical awareness, alignment, and control, especially valuable for those who struggle with coordination.
- Encourages Social and Emotional Learning: Archers practice patience, communication, safety, and respect. The range becomes a supportive, team-centered environment.
- Develops Leadership & Teamwork Skills: Students often compete as teams and depend on each other’s scores. They learn responsibility, leadership, and mutual encouragement.
Educators across NYC confirm that archery strengthens not only athletic ability but also confidence, discipline, emotional strength, and community values. It truly shapes young leaders.
Expanding Opportunities : What’s Coming Next
Educator Professional Development Workshop
January 26, 2026 | Queens & Brooklyn
Hands-on certification training for teachers.
Charter School Archery Competition
Winter 2026
Behind the Scenes: The Mission of Annual District 9 Archery Tournament
Founded by educator and community leader Natasha Green, Hidden Gems Archery transforms gyms, fields, and classrooms into safe, structured spaces for student development. With over a decade of educational leadership, the organization serves schools, companies, and communities across NYC.
Programs are built on:
- Safety
- Inclusion
- Social emotional learning
- Academic support
- Community engagement
How Schools Can Join Future Tournaments
Schools can partner with Hidden Gems Archery to:
- Launch on campus archery programs
- Train staff through certification workshops
- Join district competitions
- Host school wide tournaments
- Support SEL based physical education
Learn More at HiddenGemsArchery.com
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Media Inquiries:
📧 info@hiddengemsarchery.com
📞 (475) 328 2339