Coach Gary Yamaguchi

Place Holder

Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Year Began Coaching: 2006
Year Became JDT Coach: 2010
Coach Certification: Regional
Age: 53
JOAD Club: Paseo Vista Archery Club, Chandler, Arizona, http://www.paseoarchery.org/

I began shooting in 2002 along with my sons after being inspired by the movie, “The Fellowship of the Ring.”  We shot for several years without really learning good technique.  As a biomechanical engineer and researcher, I had to investigate the claims of the then new “Biomechanically Efficient Shooting Technique” and purchased one of the first copies of Coach KiSik Lee’s Total Archery in 2005.  I analyzed the postures and movements required, found they had merit, and sought a local coach to teach us this method.  My son and daughter soon realized better scores and stronger, more consistent shots.  I’ve been a diligent student of the BEST method, KSL Shot Cycle, and National Training System implemented by Coach Lee ever since.

As the Biomechanical Science Advisor and Coach for the JDT, I plan to both coach JDT youth and utilize my professional training to increase our understanding of the biomechanics of archery, with the ultimate goal of enhancing performance while reducing injuries.  Other fields in which I have worked include biomechanical engineering analyses of human movement and injury, including performance sports such as golf, tennis, skiing, and rock climbing.

As a coach, as an archer, and as a judge, I believe in helping everyone fairly, honestly, and with integrity.  I also believe that learning never stops — everyone should learn at least one new thing each day.  Even though people have been shooting bows for thousands of years, we are continually learning new things about archery!