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Cumberlands Seeks To Continue Historic Streak in Foley
It’s not unusual in sports to hear the terms “back-to-back” or even “threepeat”. What is unusual is to find a team in search of its seventh consecutive title, but that’s exactly what the University of the Cumberlands is hoping to win during the USA Archery Collegiate 3D Nationals in Foley October 3 – 5.
USA Archery Senior Director of Communications and Marketing Richard Fleming said the organization partnered with the Archery Shooters Association (ASA) in 2017 to put on the inaugural event. What began with less than 100 competitors has grown to draw more than 400 college shooters from around the country. Fleming said the growth of the competition reflects the growth in the strength of collegiate archery programs. These programs feature talent that has made an impact around the world.
“There will be archers competing who have represented the USA on the international stage this year and have also set new world records. The standard of archery is outstanding and you have both the present and future of the sport in this country competing,” Fleming said. “Meanwhile, the final event of the Collegiate 3D Nationals is the Mixed Equipment Team Round which takes place inside the Foley Event Center and brings together all the athletes from all the colleges as they get behind their teams, making for an incredible atmosphere, with lots of color, energy and noise!”
The excitement the event brings has teams returning year after year. The University of the Cumberlands has won every time they’ve attended the event since 2018. While they don’t have any superstitions or lucky routines, ASA President Josh Grine said some of the edge might be coming from practice and being in Foley before.
“The biggest benefit for a shooter returning is that they have at least shot one 3D event in the past. Many of the student athletes have not shot a 3D event before participating at this event,” Grine explained. “Most of these athletes are just learning 3D so that is challenging enough. We do switch courses around and targets are set in different locations so it will be different.”
But while the courses change, Grine said the Foley experience continues to be one of the best in the country which only adds to the event atmosphere.
“Foley is the ASA’s top destination. From Graham Creek to the Event Center and everything in between, everything about Foley stands out. The community comes together to ensure that events are successful, and their efforts are truly appreciated,” Grine said. “The people of Foley are an integral part of the ASA family, so when we began our partnership with USA Archery, we wanted to provide the students with the best experience possible. Foley delivers on that promise.”
City of Foley Executive Director of Leisure Services, David Thompson said the competition is a highlight on the Foley Sports Tourism calendar every year. “Foley has continued to make a name for itself in the archery world and hosting this event underscores that fact. Our team enjoys the opportunity to work hand in hand with USA Archery and ASA to make this event better and better each year.“ Thompson said. “We love being able to witness history watching the University of the Cumberlands shoot, but what we love even more is bringing world-class competition to our community. Who knows, maybe someday down the road there will be a Foley shooter taking the podium.”
For more information on the USA Archery Collegiate 3D Nationals visit the event website by clicking HERE.
