< Back to all news

Apr 03, 2026

NFAA Honors 2025 Member and Club of the Year for Outstanding Service in Archery

The NFAA is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Member of the Year and Club of the Year awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose dedication continues to grow and strengthen the sport of archery across their communities.

Established in 2022, these annual awards honor an NFAA member and club or shop that have made meaningful contributions to expanding participation, fostering community, and promoting core values of the NFAA. Nominations are submitted by members nationwide, highlighting those who go above and beyond in service to the sport.

 

Club of the Year: Archery HQ

The NFAA is proud to name Archery HQ (New Braunfels, Texas) as the 2025 Club of the Year, recognizing a program that has quickly become a model for growth, innovation, and community impact. Since its founding in 2024, Archery HQ has expanded from a small youth team into a nationally recognized organization offering comprehensive programming for archers of all ages and skill levels.

The club provides structured training, competitive team opportunities for both youth and adults, and hosts events ranging from local competitions to national level tournaments. Their commitment to excellence is matched by their focus on creating a welcoming, family oriented environment that encourages long term participation in the sport.

Beyond the range, Archery HQ has made a meaningful impact through community outreach. They actively support veterans, military members, first responders, adaptive archers, and youth programs. Their partnerships with local landowners have led to the development of an extensive outdoor 3D course, a versatile target field, and a specially designed hunting area that allows paralyzed veterans to safely experience the outdoors.

In an effort that sets them apart, Archery HQ offers free shooting opportunities for veterans, underscoring their belief that archery can play a powerful role in both recreation and well being. Their vision, generosity, and commitment to inclusivity continue to elevate the sport and make a lasting difference in their community.

 

Member of the Year: Randall Rutledge

The NFAA proudly honors Randall “Randy” Rutledge (Warrenville, Illinois) with the 2025 Member of the Year award, recognizing more than five decades of unwavering service to the sport of archery. Randy has served as an instructor, coach, judge, competitor, tournament organizer, and mentor, always with a focus on helping others succeed.

A driving force in the Chicagoland archery community, Randy has played a critical role in organizing and sustaining local, state, and national events, while also bringing clubs together to strengthen participation across the region. His behind the scenes leadership has helped ensure the long standing success of major competitions and the continued growth of NFAA sanctioned events.

Equally impactful is Randy’s personal approach. Known for his patience, encouragement, and depth of knowledge, he has guided countless archers at every level. As one nominator shared, “No one gives more freely of their time, experience, and encouragement. He has shaped the journeys of countless archers throughout our region and beyond. Personally, without Randy’s mentorship and support, I would not be part of the archery community today.”

In a reflection of his character and commitment to the future of the sport, Randy chose to donate his $200 Member of the Year award credit to the NFAA scholarship fund, continuing his legacy of giving back.

 

Continuing the Legacy of Growth and Service

The NFAA Member and Club of the Year awards celebrate the heart of the organization, its people. These honors recognize the volunteers, leaders, and communities who give their time, energy, and passion to ensure archery continues to thrive.

By highlighting these stories, the NFAA not only celebrates excellence but also reinforces its mission to grow the sport, support its members, and inspire future generations. The dedication shown by this year’s recipients reflects the very best of archery and serves as a powerful reminder that the strength of the sport lies in the people who stand behind it.

 

 

< Back to all news