At The University of Olivet, the Outdoor Recreation Team isn’t just a nod to Michigan’s rich outdoor heritage—it’s a proving ground for student-athletes passionate about archery and target shooting. Students have the chance to sharpen their skills and continue their sport at the collegiate level, with the opportunity to earn a scholarship along the way.
In honor of National Archery Day on May 10, we caught up with Coach Ponch Wildman, director of Olivet’s Outdoor Recreation Team. From perfecting arrow technique and clay target precision to emphasizing safety on the range, Coach Wildman shares stories, insights and enthusiasm that make him a standout mentor in the field.
What makes archery such a great sport for students?
Archery is a fun way to spend time outdoors and in competition. My wife first started shooting sports in archery and my father-in-law competed in numerous competitions, so we also introduced our kids to archery and shooting. It’s always a good time being outdoors and spending family time together. Archery is a great sport for kids to start with because it teaches focus and patience, skills that can help in every area of your life.
What’s one myth about archery or clay target sports you’d like to bust?
Hands down—the idea that they’re unsafe. People often assume bows or firearms mean danger, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. According to PullUSA, “Since the High School Clay Target League’s inception in 2008, there have been no recorded injuries to athletes, coaches, or spectators. Ever.” The same is true for archery. These kids take safety classes, and both practices and competitions are conducted with the highest level of safety in mind. So not only are the sports safe, but they also help build some great skills like discipline, concentration, exactness and more.
What’s your advice for someone curious about archery or clay target shooting?
First, make sure you find good instruction and learn the safety aspects of the sport. These sports are using equipment that can be dangerous if you don’t know how to handle it properly, so that is my first tip: Learn safety and proper handling and then have fun.
Archery and target shooting are also ones that you can participate in throughout your entire life, unlike so many other sports you might play when you are younger. Archery and clay target sports have athletes that participate as young as elementary school up into their 80’s and older. It’s pretty common to meet some more seasoned athletes in these sports at the local clubs. They are usually some of our biggest supporters in this sport and always the best storytellers!
What can students expect from UOlivet Outdoor Recreation program?
Student-athletes can expect to have partners in their coaches, including Assistant Coach Dave Krauss and me. We want to support them in their time at The University of Olivet and help them feel like they are part of the larger family and community in the archery and target shooting sports. We are very blessed to have a strong and supportive home club, Bellevue Conservation Club. The families and members there have embraced The University of Olivet Clay Target Team already, and they are excited to welcome The University of Olivet Archery Team as we build the program.
Rapid Fire
Favorite “unwind” outdoor sport?
Pickleball! I started playing with my family about seven years ago, and I play whenever possible. It’s a family favorite—and usually very competitive!
What’s in your freezer—deer, duck or turkey?
Always venison! We try to get most of our meat through hunting. Sometimes we’ve got pheasant too. I’d love to get out west again and refill the freezer with mule deer—or maybe even antelope or elk.
Randolph, Randy… or just Ponch?
Just call me Ponch. It’s a nickname I’ve had since I was one year old. It even shows up now on my credit report. If you call me Randolph or Randy, chances are I won’t even notice you’re talking to me!
At The University of Olivet, the Outdoor Recreation Team offers more than just competition and camaraderie—it’s a chance to turn a passion for the outdoors into a rewarding college experience. With opportunities to earn a scholarship and be part of a growing program, there’s never been a better time to aim your sights on The University of Olivet.
If you’re interested in learning more about the UOlivet Outdoor Recreation Team, contact Coach Wildman. And if you’re ready, apply today to The University of Olivet!