Starting a JOAD Club is really very simple, but before the club is formed, there is some information that needs to be gathered.
1. Organizing your group. The organizing group should start by determining what age range and ability levels are appropriate for their specific club. Generally most JOAD Clubs range in age 8 to 20 years of age.
2. Equipment needs. Determine what kind of archery equipment is needed and schedule an organizational meeting of people who are interested in helping with your club and then another meeting for people interested in becoming members of the JOAD Club. Topics to discuss would include class schedule, location and fees. USAA suggests getting a registration, consent and release form from all JOAD participants. Space, equipment and the number of instructors will most likely determine how many archers can be accommodated in your program.
3. Choose a Club Name. JOAD Clubs are often named for the range where they meet, a nearby community based attraction, a name of a town or county, or an archery event. To avoid club name duplications, you can verify your club name with the current club list.
4. Charter your JOAD Club. To charter a JOAD Club with USA Archery, there must be a minimum of (3) archers and one adult leader. The club membership fee must accompany the club membership application. A certificate of acknowledging membership and chartering is then sent to the JOAD Club. Occasionally a clubs membership may fall below three members. As long as archers are actively participating, there is an adult leadership and dues are paid, the club can continue to exist.