Unstrung Archery

This one’s been a little while in the making, but it’s absolutely worth the wait. In this two-part episode, we sit down with Dannie Palmer and Unstrung Archery Ambassador Stewart Ward to unpack their experience at the National Teams Championships — from the build-up and preparation, through the pressures of shooting at that level, to the moments that really test you on the line.We talk mindset, teamwork, and what it’s like performing when the margins are razor-thin, all culminating in an unforgettable result: taking gold in the Compound Mixed Team event. It’s a story about trust, composure, and doing the work when it matters most — and what that win meant to them both once the dust settled.

Woah, woah, woah — hang on a minute! This isn’t your usual Unstrung Archery episode… It’s a special bonus drop because we’ve got BIG news.The Unstrung Archery Postal League (UAPL) is officially live for the 2025/26 season! Running from November to March, it’s just £2 per entry, and you can shoot from your home club while being part of a national (and hopefully international!) competition.In this announcement episode:Nye takes us back to the old MBA Postal League.Neil shares why we relaunched the league under the Unstrung brand.And we unveil something new for this season… the Team Format! 🏹Perfect for clubs, friends, or ragtag crews of archers, the team format adds an extra layer of fun and camaraderie.👉 Find out more: www.unstrungarchery.co.uk/postal👉 Enter here: Postal League Entry FormSo what are you waiting for? Get your arrows ready, spread the word at your club, and let’s make this postal season the biggest yet.

In this episode of Unstrung Archery, Neil Hickman and Nye O’Neil are joined by Jesse Phillips, scout leader and passionate archer, to dive into the world of archery within scouting. Together, they explore how the sport can help young people build confidence, focus, and resilience, all while fostering teamwork and camaraderie.Jesse shares stories from their experience leading scouts in archery, offering practical insights on introducing the sport safely and effectively, and highlighting the ways Scouts and Archery GB can work together to create meaningful experiences. From fun outdoor challenges to structured skill development, this conversation uncovers how archery can inspire and empower youth in a scouting environment.Whether you’re a scout leader, parent, or archer, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on how archery can complement scouting, nurture personal growth, and create lasting memories for young people.Tune in to hear:How archery teaches focus, patience, and resilienceThe benefits of integrating archery into scouting programsPractical advice for leaders introducing archery to their groupsInspiring stories of scouts discovering new skills and confidenceConnect with Jesse Phillips: @jessedoesarchery

In this powerhouse episode of Unstrung Archery, Neil Hickman and Nye O’Neil sit down with none other than Patrick Huston OLY — two-time Olympian, GB team legend, and now a pioneer in online archery education.We dive into Patrick’s new “3D Aiming” course and the philosophy behind it, before branching into an honest and insightful chat about the real challenges archers face — from beginner pitfalls to the pressure cooker of elite competition. Expect wisdom, war stories, technical gold, and a fair few mic-drop moments.Whether you’re stringing your first bow or chasing podiums, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.🎧 Topics include:What 3D Aiming actually is — and why it mattersPatrick’s personal journey through the ranks to the Olympic stageThe biggest mistakes beginners make (and how to avoid them)Mindset, form, and how to train with purpose🔗 Check out Patrick’s course and more at:https://hustonarcheryschool.com/3d-aiming-6099

In this episode of Unstrung Archery, Neil Hickman and Nye O’Neil are joined by fellow Archery GB Ambassador Mandie Elson, who’s been making waves through her volunteer work and community outreach.From supporting the British Transplant Games to working on making archery more inclusive for the Deaf community, Mandie shares her experiences, the lessons she’s learned, and what drives her passion for making our sport more accessible to all.We talk about:Volunteering at the British Transplant GamesBreaking down barriers in archery for Deaf participantsUsing BSL, bean bags, and coloured flags as communication toolsThe role of Archery GB Ambassadors in shaping the future of the sportWhy inclusion isn’t a bonus—it’s the foundationMandie’s work is a reminder that small actions can lead to big change and that the line between participation and exclusion can sometimes be bridged with nothing more than creativity, empathy, and a willingness to try.🏹 Get in touch with Mandie:📧 [email protected]🌐 www.absolutearchery.uk

In this episode of Unstrung Archery, Nye and Neil recap the West of Scotland Indoor Championships held at the Sportscotland National Sports Training Centre in Inverclyde. Day 1 featured a Double Portsmouth, while Day 2 brought the heat with the Vegas and WA18 rounds.Nye caught up with Linda (Bloom in Fitness) and Jonny (Scottish Archery) for their thoughts on the action, and had a great chat with Andy and Linda from the Western Isles about their journey and the archery scene in the islands.We’ll also look ahead to upcoming competitions, highlight an unsung hero, and keep you in the loop with all things archery. Plus, we’re giving a big shoutout to Build4Better, a fantastic charity event organized by Twitch streamer Luna_Cupcake, where content creators are coming together to build something amazing while raising money for SpecialEffect.Grab your bow and join us for another great episode!* 🎧🏹🎮 Build4Better Details:Dates: 11th – 14th AprilCharity: SpecialEffect – helping people with disabilities play video games.Where to Watch: Tune in to Luna_Cupcake’s Twitch channel for all the action!

Saddle up for an exhilarating ride as Unstrung Archery ventures into the thrilling world of horseback archery! In this episode, Neil and Nye are joined by John and Lauran, both accomplished coaches with the British Horseback Archery Association (BHAA) and Team GB representatives.Horseback archery isn’t just archery on horseback—it’s an entirely different discipline that blends speed, precision, and horsemanship. We dive into:🏹 Equipment & Shooting Styles: How does horseback archery differ from target shooting? What kind of bows and gear are used?🐎 Horsemanship: How do you balance riding and shooting? Can you really master both?🌍 International Competition: What’s it like representing GB in horseback archery competitions?📚 Getting Started: Curious about trying it yourself? Discover resources to kick off your journey—including a handy book one of our guests may have written!🏆 Awards & Progression: Forget your 252 badges—find out about the unique achievements in horseback archery!We’d also like to give a special shoutout to Lauran’s sponsors: Castlemilk & Corrie Estates for supporting her journey in this incredible sport.🎧 Tune in now for a conversation packed with passion, practical advice, and a few surprises along the way!

Welcome back to Unstrung Archery! Season 2 kicks off with an exciting deep dive into the Northern England University Archery League (NEUAL). Joining us is Philip Taylor, a key figure in university archery, to explore how NEUAL has shaped the student archery scene, fostered competitive spirit, and provided a gateway for new archers. We discuss the league’s history and its impact on mainstream competition. Whether you're a student archer, a seasoned competitor, or just curious about the world of university archery, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! 🎧 Tune in now and let’s get Season 2 off to a flying start!

In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Unstrung Archery, Neil and Nye are joined by Manisha Solomon, host of the Archery Parent Podcast and proud parent of Reece, an international recurve archer representing Team Canada. Together, they explore the unique challenges and joys of raising a junior archer, offering practical advice and personal stories to guide parents through every stage of the journey. From managing growth spurts and navigating the expense of ever-changing equipment to keeping the archery experience positive during slumps, Manisha shares her hard-earned wisdom. They also discuss topics like keeping juniors fueled during competitions, traveling to events, and encouraging friendships and other interests outside the sport. Manisha highlights the importance of being a kind, supportive presence, even when things aren’t going well. She offers tips on how to avoid over-questioning after tough days, how to know when your child is ready for the next level, and how to create a balanced and healthy environment for growth. Whether you're a parent of an aspiring archer or a fan of the sport, this episode is packed with practical tips, humour, and heartfelt stories. Plus, check out The Archery Parent Podcast for even more insights from Manisha on supporting young athletes! https://archeryparentpodcast.ca https://unstrungarchery.co.uk

In this heartwarming and giggle-filled episode of Unstrung Archery, we sit down with two rising stars in the archery world—Isla and Emelia. At just a young age, they’ve already made their mark, moving swiftly from beginners to champions, and we couldn’t wait to hear their story. We dive into their early days, uncovering what sparked their passion for archery and their first arrow-shooting memories (spoiler: it’s not as easy as they make it look now!). They share insights into their rapid progress, the challenges they faced, and the moments they knew they were on the path to greatness. Isla and Emelia open up about competing at the JNOC, the nerves, the excitement, and the routines that keep them grounded. From balancing school and friends with their rigorous training schedules to dreaming of future achievements—maybe even the Olympics—they show us the determination, focus, and humour it takes to succeed. Of course, it’s not all serious talk. From imagining archery targets shaped like marshmallows to discussing the undeniable magic of ice cream and bacon butties, this episode is packed with personality. The Quick Fire Round is a highlight, with rapid answers revealing their favourite post-shoot snacks, dream shooting locations, and even what their bows might say if they could talk. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or just curious about the sport, Isla and Emelia’s journey will leave you inspired, entertained, and maybe even craving a marshmallow target of your own. Don’t miss this peek into the lives of two young champions!

This special takeover episode invites the host and producer of The Archery Parent Podcast Manisha Solomon to turn the tables and interview your Unstrung Archery hosts Nye & Neil. Talking in depth about the podcast's development, and how we got to be where we are now after 18 months of our podcast journey. Sit back and enjoy this in-depth interview and learn more about the show, and a little about the Archery Parent Podcast too!

Join us as we dive deep into the world of clout archery with the legendary Martin Leonard owner of Northern Archery! 🏹 Whether you're aiming high or still wondering what clout is, this episode will have you covered. From epic long-distance shots 🌳 to the perfect technique for landing in the clout circle 🎯, we break down the finer points of this unique discipline. Get ready for pro tips, some good laughs, and all the glory of clout in one episode! 🎙️ Perfect for all you archers out there looking to hit that long-range mark! 👀🔥

In this episode of Unstrung Archery, Neil & Nye dive into the fascinating world of archery judging with the highly respected Archery GB Regional Judge for NCAS/LAA, Juliet Spedding. Have you ever wondered what it takes to make the tough calls and ensure a fair game in the heat of competition? Juliet, with her years of experience and a sharp eye for detail, shares her journey from archer to judge, the challenges of maintaining focus under pressure, and some of the most memorable moments she's encountered on the field. Whether you're aiming to understand the rules better or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode is packed with insights and stories that hit the gold!

We sent Nye north to the beautiful Ayr to witness the first ever JAS stage outside of England and what a weekend it was! Hear from archers, parents, judges and field party for those who made the day a whopping success. Well done to everyone who shot, despite the wind, and performed so well and put on a fantastic show!

In this riveting episode of Unstrung Archery, we delve into the inspiring story behind Project Rimaya with special guests Yvonne Stead and Sumaiyah Solker. Yvonne Stead, Archery GB's NCAS Regional Development Officer, and Sumaiyah Solker from Active Lancashire join us to discuss this groundbreaking initiative that’s transforming communities through the power of archery. Discover how Project Rimaya is not just about hitting targets but about building bridges. Yvonne and Sumaiyah share their personal journeys, the project's challenges, and the incredible impact it has had on participants from diverse backgrounds. From fostering inclusivity to promoting physical and mental well-being, Project Rimaya is more than an archery program—it's a movement. Tune in to hear heartwarming stories of resilience, community spirit, and the unifying power of archery. Whether you're an archery enthusiast or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Grab your bow, notch your arrow, and get ready to be inspired!

This episode looks back on the girls’ experiences at the recent Indoor European Championships in Croatia

For any archer who's been looking for sports support, give our latest episode with Holly Calvert a listen 😊 We talk about Holly's experiences as a Pro Golfer, and the difficulties finding support - from physiotherapists to psychologists - and how a chance meeting with Nicole led to them finding AthleteNow, a free directory to network with sports practitioners! https://theathletenow.com We also get a first-hand account of what's offered by AthleteNow brand ambassador Lee. Listen in to find out more! #athletenow #podcast #archery #archerypodcast #unstrungarchery #sportspsychology #physiotherapy

Join us in this special episode as we honour Neurodiversity Week by delving into the realm of neurodiversity within the archery community. Discover firsthand accounts and personal insights that illuminate how individuals with neurodivergent conditions find joy and excel in archery. From navigating unique challenges to harnessing exceptional focus, this episode celebrates the diverse experiences and remarkable achievements of neurodivergent archers. Tune in to explore the dynamic intersection of archery and neurodiversity, where passion and perseverance triumph over barriers.

The Junior Archery Series is an amazing way for Juniors to experience big shoots across the country. This year sees the first stage of the tour held outside England, hosted by the West of Scotland Archery Association in Ayr! In this upcoming episode, which will coincide with entries opening on Sport 80 on the 29th of February; we’re joined by Alastair Shields, president of the West of Scotland Archery Association to talk about this historic shoot, and what it means to junior archers in Scotland and beyond!

Get ready to soar through the skies with bows and arrows in hand! In this gripping episode of Unstrung Archery, we dive into the thrilling world of flight archery with none other than world record holder, Stef Probert. Join Neil and Nye as they explore the incredible achievements of world record holder Stef Probert in the realm of distance archery. From the meticulous technique to the adrenaline-pumping moments, you'll discover the essence of flight archery and how Stef recently shattered the world record. 🏹 Buckle up for an adventure in precision, passion, and the pursuit of pushing archery boundaries to new heights. Whether you're an archery enthusiast or a newcomer, this episode is bound to hit the target. Tune in now and let the arrows of wisdom fly as Nye, Neil and Stef take you on a journey through the skies in Episode 7 - Flight of the Arrow! 🌟

It's announcement time! After months of planning and keeping things under the hood, Neil finally gets to tell us all about what he's been up to after being announced as one of the latest AGB Ambassadors! To find out more about the Ambassador programme you can visit this link! Also a big shoutout to Patience Wood who is also trying to fundraise for her trip to compete in the European Indoor Championships in Croatia in February. Please share or donate where you can!

We talk a lot about the benefits of archery to our mental wellbeing, however, an often-overlooked aspect is how performance can harm our wellbeing. Trigger warning – This episode contains in-depth discussions of mental health problems. If you’re experiencing ANY form of mental ill health, PLEASE reach out for support and to mental health services! We’ve attached as many links as we can on our Linktree in the bio In this episode, we’re joined by Kirsten Shoesmith; a barebow archer and coach at Bebington Archers, who’s previously represented Cheshire County, shot on the National Tour, and is now a mental health advocate. Kirsten here shares some of her personal experiences and provides recommendations for support based on these As we mentioned above, we’ve put links to as many support services as we can. If we’ve missed anything, or you know any local services that can offer support, please mention and tag them in the comments. Together we can help end the stigma! MIND - Mental Health Services & Support Evie Finnegan - Go Fund Me Sarah Hubbard - Go Fund Me

Prepare to up your archery game! In this episode, we sit down with the seasoned archer and competition maestro, Bob Wilde. We're delving into the grassroots of archery, exploring a myriad of tips and tricks for running your very own successful competition. From venue selection to creating an inclusive atmosphere, Bob shares the insights that make a grassroots-level event memorable. Plus, don't miss our shoutout to The Little Archery Shop, a small business making a big impact in the archery community. Whether you're an aspiring competition organiser or a seasoned archer, this episode is packed with nuggets of wisdom to elevate your archery experience.

🎯 Unstrung Archery Episode 4: "From Novice to National Tour" with Zara Longlands 🌟 Join us on a journey of grit, determination, and unwavering passion for archery in this latest episode. Our special guest, Zara Longlands, shares her incredible story of starting as a novice archer and ascending to the national tour. Discover the challenges and triumphs that shaped her archery journey, and gain insights into what it takes to compete at the national level. Zara's experience is a testament to the incredible growth that can be achieved in the world of archery. Tune in for an episode that promises inspiration, valuable tips, and a deeper connection to the vibrant archery community. 🎙️🏹

🏹 Unstrung Archery Episode 3: The Barebow Revolution with Helen Brown 🌟 In this electrifying episode, we dive deep into the heart of the Barebow Revolution with the remarkable Helen Brown. From novice to champion, Helen's archery journey is a testament to the transformative power of this archery movement. Join us as we explore the inclusivity, challenges, and enduring appeal of Barebow archery. 🎙️ Tune in for insights into Helen's path from novice archer to becoming the first women's Barebow National Tour winner. Her journey will inspire archers of all levels and backgrounds. But that's not all! We want to hear from you, our fantastic listeners! Share your questions, stories, and thoughts with us by recording a voice clip. Your clip could appear on our next episode. Just click here: https://anchor.fm/unstrungarchery/message And don't forget to join our vibrant archery community on Discord! Connect with fellow archers, share your experiences, and stay updated on all things Unstrung Archery. Click here: https://discord.gg/pKcw4k3C For more Unstrung Archery content and links, visit our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/unstrungarchery 🏹 Stay tuned for more riveting episodes where we continue to explore the diverse facets of archery, one arrow at a time! Until next time, keep aiming for your own personal revolution in archery and beyond! 🌟

Welcome to this bonus episode of unstrung archery. Today the new indoor classifications have been released and we’re going to break down, compare and give our opinions on the new changes as we look forward to starting the new indoor season.

In this engaging episode of Unstrung Archery, we shift the focus onto the host himself, Neil. 🎙️ Join us as Neil takes us on an enthralling journey through his evolution in the world of archery. From the early days of exploring this ancient art to becoming a coach, and switching bowstyles, Neil shares his experiences, lessons learned, and cherished moments. Whether you're an avid archer or simply curious about the magic of the bow and arrow, this episode offers an insightful and inspiring conversation that unravels Neil's unique archery tale. 🏹🌟 Tune in and prepare to be drawn into the captivating realm of Unstrung Archery!

In the debut of Unstrung Archery, join us for an intimate and engaging conversation as the host, Neil, interviews Nye, a fellow archer with a captivating archery journey. Discover the moments that sparked Nye's fascination with archery, the milestones that shaped his path, and the valuable insights he's gained along the way. From the joys of hitting the bullseye to the challenges that tested his determination, this episode provides an inside look into the life of an archer on a quest for excellence. Tune in to get to know Nye and be inspired by his passion for the sport that has truly become a way of life. Welcome to the world of Unstrung Archery! Entry for Wigan & Orrell Archers Novice Ranking Round & Head-to-Head Competition: https://www.lancashire-archery.org/s/WAO_Novice_Ranking_H2H_Entry.pdf Morecambe Bay Archers Annual American Competition: https://www.morecambebayarchers.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Morecambe-Bay-Archers-2023-Friendly-American.pdf