Irish Field Archery Federation

The home of Field Archery in Ireland

Become A Member

Joining IFAF is a fairly straightforward process.

Getting into Archery

There are many benefits of archery- it’s good for your health, offers a varied sporting challenge, but ultimately it’s fun!

Archery is a sport for all ages and all abilities. You can use the clubs page to find clubs in your area.

People get into archery for all kinds of reasons: some are drawn into it after their children get involved, some get hooked at a casual have-a-go at a holiday park or country fair, others were inspired to give it a go after watching Robin Hood – but whatever your reason, IFAF aims to make your entry into the sport a safe and enjoyable one.

Beginner’s Course

IFAF recommends everyone wishing to take up archery attends a beginner’s course run by a club. This will give you a good grounding in shooting technique, archery’s safety rules and range etiquette, and from there you can decide where you’d like to take your shooting. Most beginners courses are taught on recurve bows, but you don’t have to stick with this – you could look at diversifying into a high-tech compound or a traditional longbow. Beginners are insured prior to becoming members of the IFAF for a maximum of their first 6 lessons/sessions. Every shooting member must then take out a membership with IFAF either as a Independent Member or through joining a club.

What next?

The coach running the beginners course is usually the best person to speak to about where you want to take your archery once you’ve completed the beginner’s sessions. They will be able to advise you on equipment choices, building up the strength to shoot competition rounds and point you in the direction of facilities that can offer different shooting experiences. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; of your coach, in archery shops, or of your fellow archers. There can be a lot to take in, particularly with regards to the vast array of equipment available, so don’t be afraid to ask if you’re ever unsure of anything.

Once you have completed your beginners’ course and wish to continue shooting it is time to Join IFAF.

How to Join

If you would like to join IFAF, you can join through a club, who will handle your club and IFAF membership for you and collect the relevant fees.

Alternatively, you can become an Independent Member after sign-off by your coach by paying your IFAF membership fee directly.

Go to the Membership page to find all of the relevant information.