61-year-old Kevin Evans, a renowned archer from Canada, has announced his retirement from competitive archery. He won numerous gold medals in international competitions, including the World Archery Para Championships in 2007 and 2009 and the Guadalajara 2022 Para Pan American Games in the compound men’s category. However, Evans feels that it is time for him to step back from competitive archery as he is getting older and new talent is emerging on the scene. Additionally, injuries and maintaining fitness for competitions have become a challenge for him.
Although retiring from competition, Evans remains committed to the sport of archery. He will be taking on the role of a development coach for Canada at the upcoming 2024 Pan American Para Championships. Evans has prior experience coaching both able-bodied and para archers at local clubs near his home in Kootenay, British Columbia. He expressed his eagerness to support the next generation of Canadian archers and help recruit new talent, which has been challenging for the Canadian archery community.
Evans mentioned that one reason he continued in the sport for so long was due to lack of successors to take over from existing archers. By becoming a development coach, Evans hopes to contribute to the growth and success of Canadian archers in the future. His main goal is to offer support to the para team and ensure that their hard work does not go to waste.
Despite retiring from competition, Evans is willing to play any role necessary for his team’s success as a mentor or driver. He believes that by stepping back from competition, he can offer valuable guidance and support to young athletes who are just starting out on their journey towards becoming elite competitors.
In conclusion, Kevin Evans’ decision to retire from competitive archery marks an end chapter of his illustrious career but also paves way for a new beginning as he takes on a role as a development coach for Canada at upcoming Pan American Para Championships. With his extensive experience coaching both able-bodied and para athletes and deep passion for supporting young talent, Evan’s contributions will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of Canadian archery.
