MIDDLETOWN, Pa. (CBS) – An Olympic archery coach is working to get more women and girls into archery. Cindy Bevilacqua, president of the Middletown Archery Club, is a pioneer in the male-dominated sport.
The Delaware County native has won many awards over the past 40 years, but the highlight of her career was coaching the U.S. team at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
“I wish there were more female coaches at the higher levels,” Bevilacqua said.
That's why she's on a mission to encourage women and girls to participate in archery.
And the participation of women is also increasing.
“The show has grown tremendously since The Hunger Games and the Olympics and Brave aired on TV,” Bevilacqua said.
Her archery journey began at the age of five. She became an elite athlete and is currently president of the Middletown Archery Club.
As head coach, she has introduced thousands of people to the sport, including 17-year-old Anna Helmig, who uses a wheelchair.
“It's hard to get over the feeling of, oh, I can't do it,” Helmig said. “But the most rewarding part is when you realize you can do it.”
She is one of many girls who look up to Bevilacqua as a role model.
“I love working with Cindy,” Helmig said.
Mr. Bevilacqua tells all of his students to fix their eyes in the middle and stand still like statues as they shoot the arrow.
Bevilacqua is proud that more women are taking up archery.
“It gives you cardiovascular health. It gives you mental stability to your mind, body and soul,” Bevilacqua said.
Her advice to others is: “Just do your best.” Chase your dreams in archery and in life.
