Published January, 2025
The YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley is a longstanding hub for individuals and families seeking wellness activities, classes, and childcare options. Now, through a labor of love by its CEO, Hank Leo, and his wife, Pauline Leo, it has added a state-of-the-art indoor archery range to its offerings. The addition of the range is a bold step in diversifying the Y’s programming by introducing archery to new generations.
For Hank, archery isn’t just a hobby or sport—it’s a place where self-confidence is born. Inspired by memories of his late father, an outdoorsman, Hank rediscovered his love of archery after finding his old bow while cleaning out his father’s garage after his passing. His passion quickly turned into a mission to share the sport with others, especially youth struggling to find community among their peers. Over the past two years, he has dedicated his time and expertise to launching the program and currently volunteers weekly to share the sport with participants of all ages.
Equally invested in youth development and education, Hank’s wife, Pauline Leo, is the range’s primary instructor and staff member. Together, the Leos and a small group of volunteers have built a program that emphasizes technical skills, personal growth, and a sense of belonging.
The archery range, funded entirely through donations and grants—including a grant from the Gifford Foundation—exemplifies the power of community support. Even the students contributed by arranging fundraising tournaments and securing pledges for their scores. Along the far wall, commemorative arrows purchased by local supporters proudly display the grassroots efforts that made the range possible.
Hank Leo (back left) and Pauline Leo (far right) with a group of youth participants at the new range facility.
“When we started, we had nothing, no equipment, no anything,” says Leo. “The bows and arrows in here have all been donated as part of a grant through Eastern Archery and a grant from the Archery Trade Association that supports people with disabilities. That’s how we were able to get started.”
Now, over 600 participants have engaged with the program, including families who take lessons together. With the new space, the YMCA hosts open shoot times, leagues, and even practice sessions for the New York State Archery Championship. It has become a hub of activity, connecting archery enthusiasts across the region.
Avery Kraeger and Pauline Leo
A Place for Everyone
Leo emphasizes that archery offers opportunities to set personal goals, improve focus, and build confidence in a supportive environment. The program has provided a platform for extraordinary growth in all areas of life for Whitesboro High School student Averi Kraeger, who has excelled in national tournaments and now works as a junior instructor. She credits archery with helping her focus on improving her grades at school.
“She’s a really good shot and is doing a great job as an instructor,” says Leo. “She helps a lot of the younger kids and still continues to compete.”
Kraeger hopes to attract more people her age to the sport by encouraging her high school to start a team. “I’m going to talk to our athletic director about it and see if we can make it happen.”
Leo is also working to recruit schools from all over the region to set up teams. Because archery is an adaptive sport—more accessible to people with physical or cognitive impairments than most sports—it’s ideal to introduce into large school communities where inclusive programs may be lacking. So far, they’ve successfully established teams in the districts of Canastota, Vernon Verona Sherril, Oneida, and Stockbridge.
For Hank and Pauline Leo, the most rewarding aspect of the program is watching participants thrive. “For kids who may struggle in other areas,” Leo explains, “archery and being a part of this community provides a place to find success and self-esteem.”
The YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley Archery Range isn’t just a community space—it’s a catalyst for transformation. From encouraging young competitors to fostering family bonds, the range demonstrates the profound impact a dedicated few can have on the lives of many.
The Target We Share, a short film by Utica University student Nico Leonard.
YMCA Character Development Through Archery
