If you can't kick, tackle, dunk or run, chances are, you can aim.
That's what students will be doing at Independence High School, thanks to a $4,000 check delivered Tuesday from the state.
Sen. Richard Browning, D-Wyoming, made a visit to the school in Coal City to announce the implementation of a new archery club.
He said the skill is gaining momentum in West Virginia.
"About a month ago, they had the state competition in Charleston and a lot of our teams from the southern part of the state did very well in that competition," Sen. Browning explained, "so I'm hoping Independence, once they get started and get some practice with their equipment, that they can join others and make us proud."
Archery will be incorporated into physical education classes first, before being offered as a competitive sport next year.
Principal Chris Perkins hopes it will motivate students and keep them in class.
"These kids have a lot of outside interests besides athletics and academics and other things," said Perkins. "Hunting and fishing, that's a big thing in this area and it's something I enjoy doing as well. So we thought what better way to provide another opportunity for kids to stay in school, not drop out."
It's not only a life skills program though, archery is a program for students of all ages and all genders.
"I enjoy shooting with my dad," Senior Stacie Daniel said. "I go hunting all the time with him so just to be here at school and be able to shoot, it's a fun thing to do."
Whether they're shooting arrows or basketballs, students said the most important thing is taking part in activities while they're still in school.
"Try to get into something in school," added Senior DJ Black. "I mean, if it's archery or if it's sports anything. Just try to enjoy it while you can, while you're in high school."
In addition to Sen. Browning, Beckley Area Foundation gave a donation to help with upkeep of bows and equipment.
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