About TAASA

Expanding participation in traditional archery by supporting grassroots initiatives, regional structures and sustainable development across the country.

Supporting the establishment and sustainable operation of traditional archery schools and clubs throughout South Africa.

This includes developing instructors and local leaders and providing practical start-up and organisational support where required, including:

• Administrative and organisational guidance
• Logo and brand development
• Establishing a basic online presence
• Registration and membership administration
• Equipment identification and sourcing
• Guidance on training structures and safety
• Preparation for recognised competitions, exhibitions and events

Promoting respect for the cultural and historical origins of the traditional archery systems practised in South Africa.

TAASA also researches, documents and raises awareness of the historical use of the bow among South Africa’s indigenous communities, particularly the Khoi and San, as part of its cultural heritage responsibility.

Supporting the development of archers, instructors, coaches, judges, officials and leaders through structured education, training and development programmes.

TAASA seeks to develop safe, knowledgeable and skilled participants while creating pathways for recreational participation, personal development, officiating and high-level competition.

Promoting recognised WTAF-aligned traditional archery standards in South Africa. These standards include:

• Competition formats
• Equipment categories and requirements
• Safety
• Judging and scoring
• Officiating
• Event administration
• Archer preparation and conduct

TAASA also provides guidance to schools and clubs that wish to align their training, events and competitive structures with these standards.

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 for competition formats, equipment, safety, judging, officiating and event administration.

TAASA sanctioning recognises that an event has been organised and conducted in accordance with the required standards.

Organising national qualifying events to identify and select eligible TAASA members for designated international traditional archery competitions.

TAASA prepares and supports selected teams and representatives to compete internationally, subject to the applicable qualification, selection and participation requirements.

Through its WTAF affiliation and other recognised international relationships, TAASA also facilitates participation in cultural exchanges, development programmes and global collaborations.

Promoting fair access and equal opportunities for participation in traditional archery.

TAASA builds cooperative relationships with archers, instructors, schools, clubs and aligned organisations while cultivating fellowship, good sportsmanship and mutual respect throughout the traditional archery community.