AAS Team & Coaches - James Williams

James Williams discovered his passion for archery in 1987 at the age of 36, beginning with the recurve bow before quickly transitioning to Barebow Compound. In 1990, he moved to Longbow, describing it as "the most satisfying bow I have ever shot" until a shoulder injury required a return to compound equipment. His subsequent progression through Bowhunter Limited, Freestyle Unlimited, and ultimately Bowhunter Unlimited (his chosen style since 2000) reflects a career marked by adaptability, technical mastery, and enduring commitment to the sport.

Competitive Achievements

Across nearly four decades, James has earned numerous national and regional titles, complemented by an exceptional record on the world stage. His major international achievements include:

• 2001 – 1st, World 3D Championships (Australia)
• 2002 – 1st, World Indoor Championships (New Zealand)
• 2007 – 2nd, World Bowhunter Championships (Switzerland)
• 2010 – 5th, World Field Championships (Germany)
• 2011 – 1st, World Bowhunter Championships (Australia)
• 2012 – 2nd, World Field Championships (Argentina)
• 2013 – 1st, European Field Championships (Hungary)
• 2014 – 2nd, World Field Championships (USA)
• 2016 – 1st, World Field Championships (Australia)
• 2019 – 2nd, World Bowhunter Championships (USA)
• 2019 – 1st, World Indoor Championships (New Zealand)
• 2023 – 1st, World Indoor Championships (United Kingdom)
• 2024 – 1st, World Field Championships (Brazil)

These results place him among the most consistently successful archers in IFAA competition over the past 25 years.

Coaching & Qualifications

James has completed multiple archery coaching and instructor courses in New Zealand and overseas. He currently holds IFAA Level 3 Certification, reflecting his advanced coaching capability and technical expertise.

His coaching philosophy is centred on helping every aspiring archer reach their full potential. He lives by a simple four-word mantra:

DREAM – BELIEVE – VISUALISE – ACHIEVE

Leadership & Governance

James has made significant contributions to archery administration and governance throughout his career:

• NZFAA Executive – 29 years of service, including 21 years as Vice President
• Life Member, NZFAA
• Founder & Life Member, Kapiti Coast Archery Club (est. 1997)
• Former Committee Member, Auckland Archery Club (late 1990s)

His current leadership roles include:

• Vice President, Whitford Forrest Archers
• NZFAA International Liaison Officer & Technical Officer
• NZFAA Delegate to the IFAA World Council
• Chairman, IFAA Asia Pacific Region

These appointments demonstrate his long-standing influence and leadership within both national and international archery governance.

Summary

James Williams is a distinguished archer, coach, and administrator whose career spans nearly four decades of competitive excellence and organisational leadership. His achievements across multiple World Championships, combined with his extensive service to both NZFAA and IFAA, have established him as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in the Asia-Pacific IFAA archery community. Through his competitive success, coaching expertise, and dedication to the development of the sport, he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of archers.