Bradford, VT - It starts with a bow, an arrow, and a moving target—and once you try it, you’re hooked. Archery Tag is an action-packed sport that mixes the intensity of dodgeball with the skill of archery. It’s safe, fast-moving, and exploding in popularity.
And on Friday, August 1, 2025, two players from Bradford are taking it all the way to ESPN OCHO.
Only eight athletes nationwide were chosen to represent Team USA in the international Archery Tag match against Canada. Two of those members are Roger Wholie, 36, and Miky Steele, 25. The two have been training at Running Water Recreation in Bradford. Coach and manager Michael Morrissette, who just turned 60, has been working hard to get his team to this point, and he will be joining them in Florida. Michael, along with his wife Kelly, own and operate Running Water Recreation in Bradford. Together, they’ve built something rare: a small-town training ground with national impact.
If you’ve never played or even heard of archery tag, don’t worry. Most haven’t. But that’s changing fast. Players use soft foam-tipped arrows and face shields and score points by hitting players on the other team. It’s an arena-style game that’s as much about timing and teamwork as it is about aim. It’s safe for beginners, challenging for competitors, and a lot of fun both competitively and recreationally.
And it’s not just Archery Tag. Running Water Recreation has bouncy houses, mini golf, and more, and can be hired for events if you want them to come to you. They have hosted games at many of the schools in and around the Upper Valley. Whether you’re planning a birthday, looking for a new hobby, or just want to try something different, they’ve got the gear and the space.
The league is open to players from age 8 to 73 years old, but kids as young as 5 and adults well into their 80s have picked up a bow just for the pure joy of it. It’s one of the few sports where everyone, regardless of age or background, can be part of the action.
League registration for Archery Tag opens again in September, but the center is open for those who just want to play. The center offers drop-in games for those rainy summer days, and it’s a fun after school activity. It’s also a great outlet for kids who need something physical but fun - and for parents who want an alternative to screen time.
The game fits right in with ESPN OCHO’s lineup of quirky, alternative, and adrenaline-pumping sports. It’s a rare chance to see something like this in the spotlight…and to see two local players take the field on behalf of the entire country. It’s a reminder of just how much potential there is right here at home. It’s fun, it’s fast, and now…. it’s local.
Don’t miss the international Archery Tag event on ESPN OCHO, Friday, August 1st. Stream it live on ESPN+ and look for coverage across ESPN’s social media. Bradford’s going national. Let’s show the country how we play.

Have a story?