This page is dedicated to helping the beginning archer understand the Rules and Regulations associated with the various tournaments listed on our Calendars page. it can be a very confusing to not only a beginner but veteran archers as well. So if you are confused by what you hear and read...you are not alone. Trust me the person who seems to know it all...probably doesn't. They just seem to know more than you.

The rules change often and can be interpreted in many ways. If you ask someone about a particular shoot and what target is used and what sizes at what distances and how it is scored and....you are likely to hear four or five different answers to the same questions. Now it would be extremely difficult to provide information for all National and International shoots, so for the most part the information provided will focus on tournaments you would attend locally here in Michigan. At times the information will apply to national tournaments as well but it is always best, if you intend to travel for a tournament, to check the web or email the tournament chair to be 100% sure of the rules, equipment limitations and starting times. I have seen more than one incident of someone missing a start time or being disqualified by simply not knowing the rules, reading and fully understanding the tournament information. If in doubt ask and ask again !!!

FITA, IFAA, NAA, NFAA, MAA, MET, IBO, the list goes on and on. What or who are these organizations? Which if any should I join and why? Well the simple answer is they all support the sport of archery. Depending on your shooting style, goals in archery, etc., there may be reasons to join one over the other. But again there is no hard and fast rule. Most of these organizations have web sites where you can go to find out more information. Check the Links page to find some helpful links to many of the organizations and clubs listed on this web site.