Kevin Evans, a 61-year-old from Canada, has made the decision to retire from the sport of archery. Despite his successful career that saw him win gold medals in several international competitions, Evans felt it was time for him to step back from competitive archery as he is getting older and younger archers are emerging on the scene. The struggle to maintain fitness and deal with injuries also played a role in his decision.
Evans will not be completely severing ties with the sport, however. He will be taking on the role of a development coach for Canada at the upcoming 2024 Pan American Para Championships. With prior experience coaching both able-bodied and para archers at local clubs near his home in Kootenay, British Columbia, Evans expressed his eagerness to support the next generation of Canadian archers and help recruit new talent. He believes that this has been a challenge for the Canadian archery community.
One of the reasons why Evans continued in the sport for so long was due to lack of successors to take over from existing archers. By taking on this role as a development coach, Evans hopes to contribute to the growth and success of Canadian archers in the future. His main goal is to offer support to the para team and ensure that their hard work does not go unnoticed or wasted.
Evans is willing to play whatever part is necessary for the team’s success, whether it be as a mentor or driver. He is excited about this opportunity and looks forward to working with young athletes who have big dreams and aspirations.
Overall, Kevin Evans’ retirement from competitive archery marks an end of one chapter but also begins another journey towards supporting young athletes who have yet to realize their full potential in this sport.