Celebrating Lifelong Archery at Warringah Archers
At Warringah Archers, the sport is not defined by age, but by passion, consistency, and community.
We are proud to recognise one of our founding members, Danny Stasenka, now in his eighties, who continues to take to the shooting line with the same focus and determination that helped shape the club in its early years. As a founding member, Danny has not only witnessed the evolution of Warringah Archers, but has actively contributed to its culture, values, and longevity.
His continued participation is more than impressive, it is instructive. Danny has a keen eye for what strong form and good shooting look like, and he regularly offers thoughtful, practical advice to developing archers. His presence on the field is not only a personal example of longevity in the sport, but also a valuable resource for others progressing in their own shooting.
Archery keeps you thinking, keeps you moving, and theres always something interesting, that’s what keeps me coming back.
Importantly, Danny is not alone. Fellow octogenarian Maria Wright is also a regular at weekend shoots, bringing the same enthusiasm and consistency to the line. Together, they represent a cohort of members who challenge assumptions about age and physical limitation.
Archery offers a rare combination of accessibility and challenge. While it demands precision, control, and mental focus, it places relatively low strain on the body compared to many other sports. This makes it particularly well suited to those looking to remain active later in life, or to take up a new pursuit without the barriers often associated with more physically intensive activities.
At Warringah Archers, this accessibility is not incidental, it aligns directly with the club’s purpose to promote the sport, provide instruction, and support members at all stages of their journey.
From beginners through to long-standing members, the emphasis is on safe participation, skill development, and community engagement.
The examples set by Danny and Maria highlight what is possible: staying active, maintaining focus, and continuing to grow within a supportive environment. Their ongoing involvement enriches the club and provides encouragement to both new and existing members.
For anyone considering trying archery, whether returning to sport or starting for the first time later in life. The message is clear. Age is not a barrier. With the right environment, guidance, and mindset, archery remains a sport that can be enjoyed for decades.