The Parent's Guide to Tournament Etiquette

The Do's & Don'ts of Archery Tournaments (with additional Cheat Sheet)

Indoor Archery has a "code of conduct" that can be intimidating for those new to the competition circuit. Here is a breakdown to help parents support their Archers without accidentally breaking the rules.

The "Whistle" Rules (Silence is Golden)

Archery is a sport of extreme focus.

• The Golden Rule: When Archers are on the line and the whistle has blown to start the end, spectators should be quiet.
• When to Cheer: The appropriate time to cheer or clap is after the final whistle of an end or when an Archer returns to the waiting area. The other time spectators are free to cheer is when a Qualification Round has been completed. Clap. It's okay. Appreciate the effort it just took. (The only time these cheering rules go out the window is during some Team events. It's unruly and fantastic! But, best to read the room.)
• No "Coaching" from the Sidelines: At any Archery event, "sideline coaching" (shouting advice or using hand signals) can actually get your Archer disqualified. Let them do their own thing. And, let their coach do the coaching.

Navigating the Gallery

• Stay Behind the Line: There is a clear physical barrier between the spectators and the Archers. Never cross this line while the range is "hot." This goes for practice sessions, too.
• Flash Photography: This is strictly prohibited during competition. A sudden flash can cause an Archer to flinch or lose focus. Make sure your flash is turned off before you start recording or taking a photo.
• Movement: Try to avoid sudden movements if you are sitting in the front row. In an Archer’s peripheral vision, you might be a distraction.

Respect the Scoring Process

• The "Judge" Zone: Only Archers and officials are allowed at the target butts during scoring. Parents should never approach the targets to check arrows or argue a point value. (There is some pliability to this rule for young Archers new to the sport and need help scorekeeping. Permission is required by a judge prior to the start of competition. If they say no, it's final.)
• Let the Archer Handle It: If there is a scoring dispute, your Archer needs to call for a Judge. Learning to advocate for themselves is a key part of their development.
• Archers Must Sign their Scorecard: To make a score official, the Archer must sign their scorecard at the end of the round or match(es). This is a MUST. A parent, coach, or other cannot sign on their behalf. 
• The "Vibe" of the Scorecard: Avoid asking "What did you shoot?" the second they step off the line. Give them space to decompress first. Set boundaries for yourself of when to chat and what topics are allowed.

Supporting the Community

• Space is Limited: Be mindful of your “footprint”. Don’t take up three extra chairs for gear if people are standing. Archers have typically access to a secured bow storage area for their belongings at larger tournaments. For local/regional events, Archers are responsible to find a spot. Ensure your Archer takes the least amount of space. Close up bow cases, pile cases on top of each other. Put backpacks on top.
• No Trash Talking: Don't talk about other Archers, during a competition. If you're new, you don't know who you're sitting beside. It could be a parent or supporter of that Archer. There's no need to make a bad impression at the start of your Archery journey. If you're not happy with a coach, let them know after the competition. Take some time, make your thoughts known in a constructive way. If you don't like a call from a judge, your Archer needs to deal with it.

Dealing with the "Bad End"

• Keep a Level Head: Your Archer will look at you for a reaction. If you look stressed or disappointed, they will know it and feel it. A simple thumbs-up or a calm smile goes a long way. Even if we think we are being neutral, our Archers are wired to read us for even the most subtle reactions. Continue to be encouraging.
• The 24-Hour Rule: If the tournament didn't go as planned, wait 24 hours before doing a "breakdown" of what went wrong. For now, just be the parent, not the coach.

The Archery Parent Tournament Cheat Sheet

Archery tournaments maintain a professional atmosphere, especially during matches. While most are more relaxed than a World Archery-sanctioned event, there are specific "dos and don'ts" to keep in mind.

Keep this list handy to ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your Archer.

✅ THE "DO" LIST

• DO: Cheer at the Right Time. The time to clap and celebrate is after the whistle blows to end the round.
• DO: Respect the Judges. They have the final word on arrow values. If your Archer has a question, encourage them to raise their hand and ask the judge themselves.
• DO: Stay Hydrated. Bring your own water and snacks. The days can be long, and you need to keep your own energy up to be a supportive parent.
• DO: Check the Dress Code. Ensure your Archer is wearing tournament-approved clothing (e.g., closed-toe shoes and no camo) to avoid a stressful last-minute change. Federation rules will be enforced during provincial/state and national events, while may be more lax during club or regional tournaments. If you have a question, ask the tournament director.
• DO: Enjoy the Finals. Even if your Archer isn't shooting leading up to the finals watching others handle the pressure is the best "mental game" lesson available. Encourage them to stay and watch.

❌ THE "DON’T" LIST

• DON'T: Use Flash Photography. This is a major safety hazard and is strictly prohibited while Archers are on the line.
• DON'T: Coach from the Sidelines. Shouting advice or giving hand signals is often against the rules, discouraged, and can add unnecessary pressure to your Archer.
• DON'T: Approach the Targets. Only Archers and judges (and Media) are allowed in the scoring area. Stay behind the Spectator Line at all times.
• DON'T: Rush the Decompress. When they step off the line, ask "Are you hungry?" before you ask "What was your score?"
• DON'T: Worry about the Music. Bigger tournaments Classic is famous for its high-energy atmosphere. Don't worry about the noise. It’s part of the experience! Even smaller tournaments have music. Teach Archers to learn to compete with distractions. 

The Official Dress Code Summary

✅ What to Wear:

• Top: Tournament or club shirts are preferred. Collared shirts or professional-looking T-shirts are acceptable. T-shirts are okay, too. Tank tops are generally not permitted.
• Bottoms: Pants, skirts, shorts are all okay. If you think your Archer will be asked to change, have a back-up. Some events have rules around length of shorts and skirts <Insert eye roll>.
• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. You will be standing on concrete for long periods. Need some help deciding on shoes? Listen to ("Shoes that Stabilize: Reece's Range-Tested Picks") for everything you need to know about shoes for Archery.
• Finals Stage: If you make the Finals, you are expected to look your best. This is the time for your club/team jersey or Archery attire.

❌ What to Avoid:

• Camo: Following standard tournament traditions, camouflage clothing is not permitted on the competition floor (this includes hats, shirts, and pants). This is a World Archery rule and most global and national federations and associations follow suit. However, there are some exceptions within disciplines and clubs.
• Blue Denim: While some local shoots allow it, many high-level tournaments discourage blue jeans. To be on the safe side consider khakis, shorts, skirts, or athletic gear to be safe. Ask coaches or other Archers before attending or check the rules of the event.
• Offensive Graphics: Any clothing with profanity, offensive slogans, or political statements is typically strictly prohibited.
• Loose Clothing: Avoid excessively baggy sleeves or dangling drawstrings that could get caught in your bowstring or interfere with your shot. Even with a chest protector and arm guard, baggy clothing including sleeves, can get in the way.

The "Parent & Spectator" Perspective

While the dress code technically applies to the Archers on the line, it is recommended that parents and coaches dress in a way that respects the professional nature of the event.

• Pro-Tip: Wear comfortable, layered clothing. Indoor facilities can vary in temperature. One area might be chilly while the another is warm.