Behind every visually impaired (VI) archer on the shooting line, there's usually someone just as important standing behind them: a spotter. Two new videos have been created to shine a light on the vital role spotters play, and why their support is so important for VI archers to shoot with confidence, safety, and independence.
Spotters play a vital role in VI archery. They help guide archers safely on and off the line, describe where arrows land, support scoring, and provide calm, consistent feedback shot after shot. But more than that, they build trust. VI archery is a partnership, archer and spotter working together as a team. Without spotters, the sport simply wouldn't be possible.
This crucial role feels especially worth celebrating now, following the recent news that GB archer Clive Jones has been awarded an MBE for services to blind veterans. Clive's achievement draws focus not only on his own dedication and success, but also on the network of people around him who help make that success possible, including his spotters.
Watching VI archery in action shows how powerful these partnerships are. Spotters and archers develop routines and trust built over time. It's not about telling someone what to do, it's about understanding how the archer shoots, what information they need, and how best to support them in the moment.
You don't need to be an elite archer or have specialist knowledge to become a spotter. Many spotters start as volunteers, club members, friends or family who are willing to learn, listen, and commit to being part of someone else's archery journey.
As VI archery continues to grow, so does the need for more spotters. If you're looking for a meaningful way to support the sport, get involved at competitions, or be part of something genuinely life changing, spotting could be for you.
To help you find out more, Archery GB has produced a video with VI World Champion, Nick Thomas, and his wife and spotter, Marie. You can watch the video below:
If you're interested in becoming a spotter, or would like support from a spotter, please complete this form. Your details will be shared with the British Blind Sport Archery Section, who can also be contacted directly at chair@bbsarchery.org.uk.
To find out more about the benefits of coaching VI archers, we have produced a video with coach Maggie Squires, who shares her experience of coaching VI archer Clive Jones:
An Introduction to Visually Impaired Archery micro-course is also available to licensed coaches and instructor subscribers on Learning Curve which can be accessed through the Sport:80 Members' Portal.
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