Aiming for Excellence: Westwind Archers Set Their Sights on Worlds

Westwind students are preparing to represent Canada on the global stage this July as they travel to Namibia, Africa, to compete in the World Archery Tournament, held July 24–26. With unwavering focus and years of dedication, these student-athletes are demonstrating that success stems from consistency, hard work, and a passion for the sport.

This exceptional team of athletes includes students from Cardston High School and recent alumni, all of whom have spent years developing the focus, discipline, and skill necessary to compete at the highest level.

Dedication from the Ground Up

Ben Leishman, a Grade 10 student at Cardston High School, has been involved in archery since Grade 4. His older brother, Jimmy Leishman, now a student at Lethbridge Polytechnic, has been shooting since elementary school. Both were introduced to the sport by their father and coach, Curtis Leishman, who helped launch Westwind's archery program over a decade ago.

"I like the focus and dedication it takes, especially when you're working toward something like provincials or worlds," says Ben. "It takes a lot of consistent practice to get there."

Jimmy, who will attend Worlds for the second time, reflects on his previous experience: "It was an awesome opportunity. You meet people from all over the world. Everyone’s just there to do their best."

Coaching That Hits the Mark

Coach Curtis Leishman has been leading the archery program since its inception in Westwind. "It’s been 10-plus years since we brought archery to the division," he says. "What sets this sport apart is that everyone participates. Kids who may not fit into traditional team sports find a place to belong and succeed."

With more than 100 students across the division now participating in competitive archery, Westwind’s program has earned a reputation for producing top-tier athletes. "You don’t become excellent without focused practice," Curtis adds. "These kids work beyond what’s required. It’s a result of lots and lots of effort."

He also emphasizes that archery success is built on feedback, self-reflection, and repetition.

"You can be naturally good, but that really means you're good at listening, paying attention, and fine-tuning your form. These kids are consistent, focused, and driven."

Students on Target

McKenna Bevans, a Grade 12 student at Cardston High School, has been shooting since Grade 6 and will be making her first appearance at the World Championships.

"If I'm being honest, I started to try and outshoot my sister," she laughs. "But over the years, I fell in love with it."

McKenna explains that archery requires not only physical consistency but mental strength. "It’s a brain game. The more you can relax and find your rhythm, the better you perform."

She’s excited about the upcoming trip: "We’ve been practicing with our Worlds team. It’s not like we’re going with strangers. It’s a group that’s worked really hard together."

More Than Just a Sport

All three students agree that archery has taught them lessons that extend beyond the shooting line.

"Work ethic," Jimmy says. "Staying dedicated and pushing yourself to improve applies to school and everything else."

"It’s about doing the fundamentals every day," adds Ben. "And surrounding yourself with people who help you stay focused."

McKenna echoes that sentiment: "You don’t have to overthink. You just have to keep shooting and trust yourself."

Coach Leishman adds that archery teaches life skills applicable well beyond the sport.

"Archery teaches students how to learn, reflect, and improve. That mindset can help them succeed in anything."

A Community Effort

Coach Leishman says the support of the Westwind community has been instrumental in helping these athletes succeed.

"People are so willing to help," he says. "They see an opportunity for these kids and jump in to support it, whether it's time, funding, or encouragement. We’re incredibly grateful."

The students will depart on July 17 for a two-week journey to Namibia, where they will compete against archers from around the globe and aim for excellence.