Dear Traditional Archery Community,
What an incredible year it has been for traditional archery throughout the Maritimes!
Across our region, we’ve seen amazing growth, renewed energy, and a strong sense of connection among archers. With website improvements, easier online registrations, and a full and vibrant shooting calendar, 2025 has truly been a year of progress and community spirit. Together, we’ve kept the passion for traditional archery alive and thriving.
One of the year’s major highlights was the annual TAANS Traditional Shoot.
After many years, we were thrilled to bring the event back to New Annan, thanks to the generosity and hard work of Mike McCallum and his wife, Barb.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to every volunteer, club, and archer who helped make this event such a memorable success.
We also renewed our membership with the Federation of Anglers and Hunters of Nova Scotia, ensuring continued insurance coverage for traditional archery activities.
This year, the NSFAH Black Hat—known as the Bill Speed Award—was presented to Bridget Benz in recognition of her outstanding work and dedication to the traditional archery community. The award was presented by Travis McLeod during the TAANS shoot.
Our participation in the NSFAH “License of a Lifetime” fundraiser was another exciting achievement. Tickets were sold both online and at events, helping support insurance costs and keeping traditional archery activities accessible. A big thank-you to Rodney Spencer and Chenise Hache for stepping up as representatives—your support is truly appreciated.
To celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that keeps our community moving forward, a new Volunteer Recognition Pin Program has been introduced.
Details are available on the TAANS website at www.taans.ca
This initiative will be overseen by past TAANS presidents, led by Travis McLeod, and we welcome the entire traditional archery community to take part in recognizing the people who give so generously of their time.
We also extend our sincere thanks to all clubs that hosted traditional and mixed shoots this year.
Your events welcome new archers, strengthen friendships, and reinforce the values we all share—tradition, sportsmanship, and community.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue growing traditional archery throughout the Maritimes: welcoming new archers, supporting more events, and strengthening our presence across the region. To move forward, we need a united front and a strong, engaged membership family.
You can support the traditional archery community by spreading the word, inviting new archers, or becoming a TAANS member—no matter where you live in Canada.
Every member strengthens the foundation we all stand on.
Wishing you and your families a warm and joyful Christmas season, and a New Year filled with good company, great shots, and unforgettable memories!
Warm regards,
John D. Cann
President of TAANS
