Inside the UK’s biggest archery club

At Southampton Archery Club, members displayed why it has that title in its latest Saturday training session.

They met weekly for practice, for coaching, for community support.

A dedicated group of archers show up almost weekly, representing the reliable and committed core of the club, a good source of support and backing-up for the squad.

But what sets Southampton apart is how it’s able to keep such a strong, consistent pipeline of experienced members from an established group of archers united by this history with a high level of new and ongoing membership.

The club facilitates introductory sessions for those just starting out on archery, providing equipment and guidance for beginners, coaching and equipment for recreational archers. Many of the active members of the club began with these introductory programs.

This nurturing culture is supported by Emma Polglaze herself who helps keep it going. She supports disabled archers, based on her own experience living with spinal arthritis.

Polglaze knows what the physical conditions can add to the difficulties.

She often assists members who require personalised adaptations, encouragement, or modified approaches.

There may not have been any disability-focused sessions on the Saturday that was recorded, but her impact was still very much present in the club’s atmosphere.

“For me, it’s about helping disabled archers get confident and feel accepted in the sport,” she explained. “I understand how much, with the right support, matters.” “I shoot from a wheelchair; I can still be part of the club,” she said. “I can still do what I love, simply by being in the chair.”

Her dedication is part of a larger club philosophy: everyone, whether they have enough years, are young or old, or those who are physically challenged should have the opportunity to try archery.

A group camaraderie was alive in all of the room, captured on video and photo so it was apparent it was clear the entire group got along well. In its current state, the size, scale, organization and inclusivity of this group means that it really shines across the nation.

Southampton Archery Club, with weekly sessions, continued coaching and a commitment to welcoming new archers, has emerged as the very best example of what a modern community sports club can be today.