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Jul 22, 2026

2026 Outdoor Field Sectionals Highlight Growth, Innovation, and New Opportunities

The 2026 NFAA Outdoor Field Sectionals & National Series, held April 25 through July 18, brought together archers at 22 host clubs across the country, from California to Connecticut and everywhere in between. This year's events delivered encouraging results for field archery enthusiasts, with attendance increasing from 372 archers in 2025 to 570 competitors, a more than 53% increase. The majority of sections reported higher participation than the previous year, with the Southwest Section experiencing the largest increase.

As approved by the Board of Directors at its 2025 Annual Meeting, a trial field format was developed by a designated committee to make field archery more approachable and encourage greater participation. The new Modern Field Round featured 12 Field, 12 Hunter, and 12 Animal targets with three arrows per Field and Hunter target instead of four. Additional changes included the elimination of walk-ups and fans, as well as removing target face and shooting position assignments. These adjustments were designed to create a faster-paced, less intimidating experience for both new and experienced field archers while preserving many of the unique challenges that make field archery special.

Following the conclusion of the events, the NFAA surveyed participants to gather feedback on the new format. A majority of respondents indicated they either liked or strongly liked the overall Modern Field Round. Archers consistently cited the reduced number of targets and arrows, the ability to complete the event in a single day, and the streamlined shooting procedures as the biggest benefits. Many also appreciated the aspects of field archery that have long made the discipline unique, including the opportunity to reconnect with fellow archers, meet new participants, and enjoy beautiful host courses. Several respondents commented that the Modern Field Round has the potential to attract new archers while helping ensure the long-term future of field archery.

In addition to the new format, competitors enjoyed expanded opportunities to earn national recognition. All 36 targets shot during the Outdoor Field Sectionals counted toward both sectional rankings and the NFAA National Series standings, allowing archers to compete for national-level awards beyond their sectional results. The event also marked the first opportunity for competitors to earn Shooter of the Year points at the Outdoor Field Sectionals. The NFAA Shooter of the Year program recognizes the most consistent and well-rounded archer in each category throughout the season, adding another level of significance to sectional competition.

"The increase in participation this year, combined with the positive feedback from participants, is encouraging as we continue evaluating the future of field archery," said NFAA Governance & Administration Director Erika Jones. "The Modern Field Round was developed to lower barriers to participation while maintaining the spirit of field archery, and it is exciting to see archers embrace the format. Combined with National Series rankings and the addition of Shooter of the Year points, the Outdoor Field Sectionals provide even greater value and more opportunities for our members."

The Modern Field Round will remain a trial format before being presented to the NFAA Board of Directors for a vote to become a new official NFAA round in 2027. Prior to the vote, state representatives will have the opportunity to submit feedback and proposed modifications based on member experiences. By combining member feedback with participation data, the NFAA hopes to continue evolving field archery while preserving the tradition and challenge that have defined the sport for generations.

Event Results

 

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