West Liberty University officials, seeing the growing popularity in archery around the Ohio Valley, announced Wednesday that it has formed a new archery club.

“We’ve seen how strong youth and high school archery programs have become in our area,” said Katie Cooper, Vice President of Enrollment. “Our goal is to create opportunities for those students to continue doing what they love while getting a great education at West Liberty. The archery club is a perfect way to bring those interests together.”

The club will operate under the direction of the university’s Office of Student Life and have a designated certified coach. Archers will follow the guidelines of the USA Archery Foundation. Members will practice on campus and have the chance to participate in regional and national collegiate archery competitions. To learn more about USA Archery, please visit www.usarchery.org.

“West Liberty University is excited to offer archery as a club sport for our students,” said WLU President Tim Borchers. “This sport is very popular in the Ohio Valley and we are pleased to offer the opportunity for students to continue their competition as Hilltoppers.”

Archery has become increasingly popular among youth and high school programs throughout the region, and the new club sport at WLU will provide a natural next step for those who want to continue the sport at the collegiate level, the university said.

Open to students of all skill levels, the club will emphasize safety, skill development, and camaraderie, giving Hilltopper students another way to get involved on campus while representing the university in competitions.