The Atherton Raven archer graduating class celebrated their last home tournament of the season on February 14th.
The Ravens’ tournament was a great success, with many archers scoring personal bests, a great placement for the team, and smooth transitions between flights (the two practice and six scoring rounds).
Atherton had 6 Archers shoot over a 270, led by Junior Conner Higgins with a score of 283. The tournament was also a great advancement of personal goals, with 6 archers shooting their personal best of the season.
Atherton’s team 1 placed 4th overall, with a score of 3229, with team 2 following in 8th with a score of 3000, and team 3 placed 11th overall with a score of 2715.
Eighteen total seniors, a third of the total team, are leaving this year. With many of the seniors being on the archery team for all four years, the students have hosted twelve home tournaments, multiple state competitions, and a national tournament in 2024.
Atherton’s Cupid shoot ended with a short celebration of the seniors, including presenting their senior banners and recognition of personal and team achievements reached throughout their time on the team.
As the senior class leaves after four successful seasons, the students are leaving with more than just physical achievements, but memories that last a lifetime. Team captain Gideon Dunn (12) continues to connect with her team every day in and out of practice.
“I have met my best friends through archery. I don’t think I would be the person I am without the constant support and companionship from the people I love on this team,” said Dunn.
Many students, including Co-Captain Braxton Weatherly (11), know the team won’t be the same when the graduating class leaves.
“The seniors just bring a sense of community. I don’t see these people as teammates but as friends and family. Archery is such a tight-knit group, and it’s been great to grow and learn with them,” said Weatherly.
Logan Todd (12) always loved the traditions held after home tournaments, including the Waffle House trip between seniors and juniors.
“I’m so glad for my personal growth and achievements, but what’s more important to me is the people I’ve met and the friends I’ve made through archery. I’m gonna miss these people a lot,” said Todd.
Although many seniors have been on the team for all four years, many students who joined late still have made many memories and connections throughout the team. Kathryn Armstrong (12), who joined her junior year, feels there are still so many memories she’s made in her short time on the team.
“Archery has allowed me to meet some of the most kind and inclusive people. I have gained so many friends and good memories thanks to archery. I am forever grateful for my time on the team,” said Armstrong.
