Photo by World Archery
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The road to LA28 starts now, and USA Archery is calling on the next generation of Para athletes to take their shot.
The 2026 Para Talent Identification (ID) Program is officially underway, opening the door for athletes with a classifiable Para Archery impairment, ages 14 and up, to step into a high-performance pathway with Paralympic potential. This isn’t just about finding talent - it’s about igniting it.
USA Archery is looking for driven individuals ready to test themselves in a new arena. Whether you’re a high-level Para athlete transitioning from another sport, a disabled veteran searching for your next competitive chapter, a committed para archer or bowhunter, or a recreational adaptive athlete with a strong desire to compete, this program is designed to uncover and elevate potential.
The journey will build throughout the year and culminate in a fall Talent ID camp - an immersive experience designed to accelerate development and sharpen focus on the path to LA28.
Just ask Jordan White (pictured). After discovering archery in 2020, White attended a USA Archery Talent ID camp in 2023 - a pivotal step in a rapid rise that led to history. At just 15 years old, White became the youngest member of Team USA at the 2024 Paralympic Games, and the youngest U.S. archer ever to qualify for the Paralympics.
“The Para Talent ID camp provided a fun opportunity to connect with others in the para archery community and to hone my skills in preparation for the Paralympics,” said White.
The 2026 program will offer selected athletes direct access to expert coaching, personalized guidance on goal setting and skill progression, and a clear look at what it takes to compete on the world stage. Participants will also be introduced to USA Archery’s Junior Olympic Archery Development Program, adaptive equipment, and key resources designed to support long-term growth.
Paralympic Head Coach Jonathan Clemins sees the program as more than a talent search - it’s a launchpad.
“This is an initiative that I’m incredibly passionate about,” said Clemins. “Our Para Talent ID Program is about unlocking potential and developing it. We’re not only identifying athletes - we’re building them within a high-performance framework that emphasizes technical skill, physical preparation, and mental performance.
“This allows us to invest in athletes early, guide their development, and provide the structure and support needed to grow into elite competitors. It creates a clear pathway to LA28 and beyond. For those who fully commit, this can be a truly transformative, life-changing experience.”
Athletes ready to take the first step should complete a brief survey by June 30, 2026 to be considered for the program. You can also find much more information in the Para Talent ID Program Guide, and additional details here on adaptive archery.
PARA TALENT ID PROGRAM SURVEYPARA TALENT ID PROGRAM GUIDE
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