May 11, 2026 — The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP®) is proud to recognize the recipients of the 2026 “On Target for Life” Awards, honoring individuals whose impact reaches far beyond scores and competition lanes.
While NASP® tournaments celebrate achievement in archery, the “On Target for Life” Awards were created to recognize something even greater — the people who use archery to build confidence, create opportunities, strengthen communities, and positively influence the lives of many.
“These awards represent the heart of NASP®,” said Jeff Rawlinson. “Every day we see coaches, students, volunteers, and alumni changing lives through archery. The range may be where the arrows fly, but the real impact happens in classrooms, homes, schools, and communities long after the tournament ends.”
The 2026 recipients were selected from nominations submitted by coordinators, coaches, educators, parents, and fellow archers from across the country. Each story reflected the values that continue to define NASP® — perseverance, leadership, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
Besides the recognition and the plaque presented at a NASP® tournament, each recipient receives: Adult award – a $500 equipment grant; Student award – a $500 Scholarship.
Coach of the Year Award
Recognizing attributes of the coach beyond just their ability to teach the fundamentals of archery and have a proven history of making an overwhelming positive difference in the lives of participating NASP® students.
Winner: John Ponzar, Missouri
Superhero Award
An unpaid volunteer that makes an outstanding positive impact on their NASP® class or team.
Winner: Kim Legg, Pennsylvania
Bullseye Award
A NASP® student that has made notable positive strides in academic performance and behavior through their involvement with the program.
Winner: Ruby Sowell, Virginia
Courage Award
A NASP® student that has overcome a major life event or disability yet continues to inspire others through their participation in NASP®.
Winner: Zachary Legg, Pennsylvania
Community Service Award
A NASP® team that makes a substantial positive impact on its community.
Winner: Heartwood Christian Academy, Alabama
Outstanding Alumni Award
A former NASP® graduate that experienced the positives of NASP® and now continues to give back to their former school or team. They provide obvious service, support, and a positive role model for current NASP® students to emulate.
Winner: Samara Honshiko, Washington
Throughout the nomination process, one theme appeared again and again — NASP® is about far more than competition. Stories submitted described students discovering confidence for the first time, educators creating safe and welcoming spaces, families reconnecting outdoors, and communities rallying around young people through archery.
For many participants, the lessons learned through NASP® continue long after students leave the range.
“Archery teaches patience, focus, responsibility, and resilience,” said Tommy Floyd, NASP® President. “Those are life skills that help students succeed wherever life takes them. The individuals recognized through these awards truly embody what it means to be ‘On Target for Life.’”
For more information about NASP®, visit NASP® Official Website.
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