WAMPSVILLE — The Oneida branch of the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley is beginning a new session of their popular Character Development Through Archery program. Six weeks of classes begin Tuesday, May 16 at the New Beginnings Community Church, 227 Genesee St., Wampsville.

This is the only program in Central New York that offers youth ages eight and older, along with their families, the opportunity to participate in lessons, workshops, clinics and private instruction, according to the YMCA announcement.

Classes are taught by USA Certified archery instructors with a special emphasis on character development training for youth.

Classes include:

• Explore Archery (beginners): Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 4 p.m.
• Advanced Archery (Junior Olympic Archery): Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 5 p.m.
• Explore Archery (families with up to 3 members): Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

Classes are limited to 12 participants. Register by Monday, May 15, at www.ymcatrivalley.org or by calling the Oneida YMCA, 315-363-7788. The cost for YMCA members is $60 and $80 for non-members. The family rate is $90. Private lessons can be requested by filling out the online request form.

“At the Oneida YMCA, we teach the sport of archery along with a focus on empathy, personal development, relationship building, emotion management and responsibility,” said certified USA Archery instructor, Hank Leo, CEO.

To date, the Oneida YMCA program has served over 500 participants since it was founded by Leo and his wife, Pauline, also a certified instructor.

Recognizing the program’s impact on youth and family, the Y plans to build an indoor, 20-yard archery range at the Oneida Y, in the back of the property.

For more information, contact Brittany Pfaff at 315.363.7788 or bpfaff@ymcatrivalley.org.

For more information, check out this Character Development through Archery video.