TAASA
About TAASA
The independent national body dedicated to the promotion, preservation, development and responsible advancement of traditional archery throughout South Africa.
Who we are
A national home for traditional archery
The Traditional Archery Association of South Africa (TAASA) is an independent, non-governmental and non-profit organisation registered in South Africa as a non-profit company (NPC).
Guided by the principles of integrity, accountability, inclusivity and transparency, TAASA provides a national platform for archers, schools, clubs and aligned organisations committed to honouring the cultural and historical heritage of traditional archery.
TAASA respects the autonomy of traditional archery schools and clubs in their internal teaching, training and day-to-day practices. Where guidance is requested, TAASA supports schools and clubs in working towards recognised standards. Events seeking TAASA sanctioning and official recognition are required to comply with the applicable TAASA and WTAF-aligned event and competition standards.
International affiliation
World Traditional Archery Federation
TAASA is affiliated with the World Traditional Archery Federation (WTAF), connecting South African traditional archery to an international framework for competition, development and cultural preservation. Through this affiliation, TAASA works to promote recognised WTAF-aligned standards within South Africa.
View our WTAF member profileOur Mission
What we set out to do
- 01
Promote and preserve
To promote traditional and historical archery formats and preserve the legacy of traditional bows, target disciplines and established shooting methods across diverse archery cultures, with particular recognition of the traditions of the peoples of South Africa.
- 02
Serve our members
To serve our members by encouraging participation in traditional archery, fostering fellowship and good sportsmanship, and supporting safe and structured pathways for education, development and high-level competition.
- 03
Honour heritage
To honour the traditions and heritage associated with archery and, where appropriate, support the development of long-standing practices into clearly defined disciplines while respecting the cultures and histories from which they originate.
- 04
Strengthen structures
To strengthen traditional archery in South Africa by supporting the establishment and sustainable development of schools, clubs, instructors, officials and regional structures.
- 05
Align with global standards
To promote competition and event standards aligned with the principles and requirements of the World Traditional Archery Federation.
Our Objectives
How we advance traditional archery
To advance traditional archery throughout South Africa, TAASA focuses on the following objectives.
Growth and Regional Development
Expanding participation in traditional archery by supporting regional structures, grassroots initiatives and sustainable development across the country.
School and Club Development
Supporting the establishment and sustainable operation of traditional archery schools and clubs across South Africa. This includes developing instructors and local leaders and providing practical start-up support where required. Such support may include:
- Administrative and organisational guidance
- Branding and logo development
- Establishing a basic online presence
- Registration and membership guidance
- Equipment identification and sourcing
- Guidance on training structures and safety
- Preparation for recognised competitions, exhibitions and events
Heritage Preservation
Celebrating, documenting and preserving the cultural and historical heritage of traditional archery, including the traditional archery practices connected to the peoples and communities of South Africa.
Education and Excellence
Supporting instructor, coach, judge, official and leadership development through structured education and training programmes.
TAASA seeks to develop safe, knowledgeable and skilled archers while creating pathways for recreational participation, personal development and high-level competition.
Standards and Development
Promoting recognised traditional archery standards in South Africa in alignment with the rules, principles and competition framework of the World Traditional Archery Federation. This includes developing and applying appropriate standards for:
- Competition formats
- Equipment categories and requirements
- Safety
- Judging and scoring
- Officiating
- Event administration
- Archer preparation and conduct
TAASA also guides schools and clubs that wish to align their training, events and competitive structures with these standards.
Events and Competitions
Organising traditional archery events, tournaments, exhibitions and demonstrations.
TAASA also sanctions and regulates events that seek official TAASA recognition. Sanctioned events must comply with the applicable TAASA requirements and WTAF-aligned standards relating to competition formats, equipment, safety, judging, officiating and event administration.
TAASA sanctioning provides recognition that an event has been organised and conducted in accordance with the required standards.
National and International Participation
Selecting, preparing and managing TAASA teams and representatives participating in national and international competitions, cultural exchanges, development programmes and global collaborations.
TAASA seeks to create pathways through which South African traditional archers can participate internationally and compete according to recognised global standards.
Inclusivity and Unity
Promoting fair access and equal opportunities for participation in traditional archery.
TAASA works to build cooperative relationships with schools, clubs, archers and aligned organisations while cultivating fellowship, sportsmanship and mutual respect among all participants.
Explore more
Committee & governance
Learn who leads TAASA and how the association is governed.
Join us
Get involved
Join TAASA as a member, or partner with us to help grow
traditional archery in South Africa.