Athlete of the Week-Will Stockton

White County High School senior Will Stockton chose to spend his senior year doing something he had never done before: join the archery team.

Stockton’s journey into archery was unexpected. For three years, he focused solely on his involvement in FFA, the Future Farmers of America club. It was only at the urging of his coach, Mickey Steele, and his close friends that he decided to give archery a try during his senior year.

“They begged me to do it for three years, and I always said no,” Stockton said. “But I went to one practice, and I fell in love with it. I wish I had started sooner, but I’m glad I did it now.”

Since then, Stockton has dedicated himself to the sport, quickly showing that he has a natural talent for archery.

“Will decided he’d give archery a try for his senior year. He has excelled as a beginning archer,” Steele, the Warriors’ archery head coach, said.  “He never fails to keep the team ‘pumped up’ for competitions!”

Stockton’s dedication has paid off in the form of major improvements over the season. He began the season shooting a 170 out of a possible 300, but by senior night he had made a significant leap to score a 250. Now, he’s preparing for the upcoming national championships, an achievement that has filled him with both excitement and nerves.

Beyond the sport, Stockton has gained valuable life experiences.

“Archery has helped me get more involved in high school, build connections, and develop character,” he explained. “Being part of a team teaches you how to grow with others and come together through good times and bad.”

He aims to study agricultural business at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, a field that combines his interests in business and agriculture. He also hopes to pursue archery tournaments beyond high school, continuing his passion for the sport.

Stockton’s advice to other students?

“Just give it a shot. High school only happens once, and trying new things can really take you places,” he said with his trademark smile.