Photo by Erika Steiness
PHOENIX, Ariz. - Emma Berkshire made history earlier this year as the first female to claim the Mountain Region Positive Athlete O.P.E.R.A.T.E. Scholarship, which was officially awarded last weekend at the 2025 USA Archery Arizona State Outdoor Championships.
Emma – who attends Red Mountain High School in Mesa, Arizona – was presented with her scholarship check for $2,500 by Olympic medalist and former World Champion, Rick McKinney. Rick and Emma are both involved with Gilbert Archery Club.
The O.P.E.R.A.T.E scholarship embodies the seven pillars of a Positive Athlete: Optimistic, Puts team first, Encouraging, Respectful, Admits imperfections, True heart for others, and Embraces service - qualities that Emma demonstrates daily.
A coach’s dream, Emma leads by example in every sense. As a certified Level 1 USA Archery Coach, she is on the range before sunrise every Saturday, mentoring younger archers, helping with equipment, and inspiring her team both in practice and in competition.
Her dedication has earned her second place at the State JOAD Championships, and she is actively pursuing her Bronze Olympian pins while training multiple times a week and competing at a national level, including this year at the AAE Arizona Cup and the WIAWIS USA Archery JOAD Target Nationals & JOAD U.S. Open.
Emma’s aim, however, extends far beyond archery targets. She has accumulated over 400 hours of community service, raises mental health awareness through Bring Change to Mind, supports the arts, and volunteers extensively within her school and community. In addition, she is mastering American Sign Language in pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy, all while maintaining a 4.4 GPA and ranking in the top two per cent of her class.
Emma isn’t just an overachiever, she is a quiet powerhouse of purpose, kindness, and commitment. Her achievements both on and off the range exemplify the very essence of a Positive Athlete.
USA Archery is proud to support Positive Athlete in celebrating youth who lead with integrity, teamwork, and heart. Nominations are now open for the next class of Positive Athletes. To honor an athlete in your community, visit PositiveAthlete.org.
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