COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Phil “Chad” Jones has been named 2024 Volunteer Coach of the Year as part of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s (USOPC) annual awards for coaches and support staff.
Jones has played a pivotal role in athlete development at In-Range Archery in Richmond, Ky., promoting an environment that consistently produces top-tier competitors at the state, national and international levels.
His expert coaching, tailored to each athlete’s abilities, has led to significant achievements, including multiple archers earning spots on the USAT team and coaching John Stephens - a U21 archer - to the 2024 World Archery Field Championships.
In-Range Archery enjoyed success at last week’s Easton Foundations Gator Cup, with medals going to Jayden Azbill, David Fightmaster and Cody Fightmaster, with a fourth-place finish for McKenna Smith.
Jones was nominated by USA Archery as part of the USOPC Coach of the Year Recognition Program, with winners selected by a USOPC panel. The program recognizes and celebrates the work of outstanding coaches and support providers who make a significant impact within their sport and National Governing Body throughout the year.
“To say this is an honor is an understatement,” began Jones. “Being named USOPC Volunteer Coach of the Year is deeply meaningful to me. I’m passionate about watching young archers grow - not just in skill, but in confidence, discipline and self-belief. Spreading the love of archery and helping others discover what this sport can bring to their lives is what drives me.”
Beyond competitive success, Jones is committed to continuous self-improvement, integrating modern coaching methodologies from USA Archery courses into his training. His dedication is further underscored by his volunteerism - coaching both individual athletes and his Junior Olympic Archery Development team free of charge!
Jones was previously named USA Archery Male Volunteer Coach of the Year in 2022. Athletes said of him then, “He is a hard-working leader and goes above and beyond to make sure not only archery needs are met but other needs as well. Often individuals will ask for equipment recommendations, and he will buy it for them out of his own pocket. His generosity and positive attitude are unparalleled.”
By prioritizing personal growth, mental training and community-building, Jones has created a structured, supportive environment that enables archers to excel and grow both on and off the range and is very much deserving of this prestigious award.
Jones added, “I want to thank the archers I’ve had the privilege to coach - for trusting me, for showing up, and for allowing me to grow right alongside you.
“And to my wife, Shelby - thank you for being so open and supportive of my passions, and for sharing our home, our car trips, and so much of our time with so many other archery families. Your love and patience make all of this possible.”
To find out more information on USA Archery's Instructor and Coach Certification Program, click here.
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