For 24 years, Richard Swann has worked in one of the most demanding and high-stakes roles in the U.S. Air Force - Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). With multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan behind him, his career has been defined by precision, discipline, and the ability to remain steady under pressure.

It’s no surprise, then, that he found a natural connection in archery.

Swann’s introduction to the sport came in 2016, not through his own pursuit, but through his son. Living in Georgia at the time, his son joined the Paulding County 4-H Archery Team - an opportunity that quickly became a family endeavor. Like many youth programs, volunteers were essential, and Swann stepped up.

“I figured if I was going to coach, I should probably learn to shoot,” he said.

That decision sparked a journey that would grow far beyond a simple volunteer role.

After earning his initial 4-H certification and USA Archery Level 1 Instructor credential, Swann began shooting compound and participating in local leagues. Drawn to the technical side of the sport, he continued advancing his coaching education, achieving Level 2 and Level 3 certifications in quick succession.

When the opportunity arose in 2021 to pursue USA Archery’s Level 4 Coaching certification through remote learning, Swann didn’t hesitate. Fresh off a deployment, he leaned into the challenge.

“Level 4 focused heavily on Olympic archery, so I picked up a recurve bow to better understand the process,” he explained.

That step changed everything.

While his initial goal was to transition into Olympic recurve, Swann found himself captivated by the simplicity and challenge of barebow. What began as a learning tool quickly became his competitive focus.

Now, he’s a regular presence on the competition line, shooting in local leagues and tournaments whenever possible, and making the trip to national events whenever he can.

Like many veterans, he faces ongoing battles that aren’t visible from the outside. He lives with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), along with depression and anxiety - challenges that can make even the simplest steps feel overwhelming.

“There are times it’s hard to find the motivation just to go shoot,” he shared. “And that’s tough when you have goals of being one of the best.”

Yet, it’s in those moments that archery becomes most important.

“When I’m struggling - dealing with memories, survivor’s guilt, or anxiety - if I can get out and shoot, it brings me back to the present,” Swann said. “It requires focus on every step. It’s almost like meditation. It quiets everything else.”

That sense of presence - of being fully in the moment - is something Swann has come to rely on. Each shot demands attention, control, and intention. In return, it offers clarity.

And beyond the personal impact, there’s another layer that keeps him coming back: the people.

“The archery community is incredibly supportive and accepting,” he said. “As I look toward retirement from the military, it’s reassuring to know I’ve already found another tribe - a place where I belong.”

With his Air Force career set to conclude in March 2027, Swann is already building the next chapter of his life. Through coaching, competition, and connection, archery has become a foundation for what comes next.

His message is simple, but powerful:

“Archery is for everyone. It’s fun, it’s challenging, it’s family. It brings peace. It helps you heal.”

And if you ask him, there’s always room for one more on the line.

For those inspired by stories like Richard’s and interested in trying archery for themselves, becoming a member of USA Archery is a great place to start. Membership connects archers of all ages and abilities with certified coaches, local clubs, events and a nationwide community passionate about the sport.