Films like Brave and The Hunger Games have brought archery back into modern day. But regardless of Katniss Everdeen’s prowess as a fictional archer, the ancient and skillful sport is enjoying a resurgence. For those excited about archery, you don’t need to look deep into the woods to learn and practice the sport. In the middle of downtown Toledo, tucked away in the Secor Building, AJ Archery provides you with bow and arrow.
Follow the arrow
With more than ten years of experience, owner, proprietor, and certified archery coach, AJ Berning-Mattell, has made a career out of her passion for the sport. Her passion began when she practiced archery with her late-husband, and they developed a dream to open an archery range. In October 2014, she realized that shared dream, opening AJ Archery.
The Secor Building space has been transformed into a state-of-the-art archery range complete with a padded wall behind targets strong enough to withstand the force of a crossbow. The expansive second floor space was once used as a gymnasium for a local charter school. After the space was no longer in use, Berning-Mattell recognized the potential. Here, Berning-Mattell uses her USA Archery Level 3 NTS (National Training System) certified training to coach and educate budding or experienced bow-wielders. The only coach in the area holding that level of certification, Berning-Mattell offers a unique and important understanding of the sport.
There are four rules: safety, safety, safety, and fun,” said Berning-Mattell. “Archery is so much fun, there is so much that goes into it, so much to know.”
A deeply scientific sport, a good archer looks to physics, physiology, and geometry to accurately hit a target. Among these physical concerns? Wind resistance, hitting the correct angle, the weight of the arrow and the strength of a bow. Think billiards, but sharper and more dangerous.
Making the mark
Berning-Mattell offers specialized archery sessions including birthdays, various workshops, corporate team building and training of archery instructors, making AJ Archery a major focal point for the sport.
It is not necessary to buy equipment as AJ Archery is equipped with a vast range of bows for all skill levels, while also offering discounts for military, scouts, and youth groups. Berning-Mattell strives to make the sport accessible and fun, beginners need not feel intimidated.
“I don’t do retail,” says Berning-Mattell, “I want to coach, I want to teach. My main goal is to expose as many people as I can to archery and to have them enjoy something that I thoroughly have a passion for.”
AJ Archery is located on the 2nd floor of the Secor Building | 425 Jefferson Ave. | 419-474-1103 | ajarchery.com
