The Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation (VIFAF) has reached a historic milestone, following its official acceptance as a Full Member of the International Field Archery Association (IFAA). Photo: VIFAF

Executive members of the Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation (VIFAF), President Reuben J. A. Stoby, left, and Treasurer Ritseeniyah N. Georges-Buxo, right, were present virtually to witness the VIFAF being given Full Member status by the International Field Archery Association. Photo: VIFAF

Founded in 1970, the International Field Archery Association is the worldwide governing body for field archery, representing member associations from countries across six continents. Photo: IFAA

VIFAF has held Associate Membership with the IFAA since January 2025. Over the past 18 months, the federation has worked diligently to strengthen its governance, expand participation in the sport, and promote field archery throughout the Virgin Islands. Photo: VIFAF/Facebook

The decision was made during the IFAA Council meeting held on Friday, July 24, 2026, marking a major step forward in the federation's continued growth and international development.

Executive members of the federation, President Reuben J. A. Stoby and Treasurer Ritseeniyah N. Georges-Buxo, were present virtually to witness the historic decision. As the federation's appointed delegate, President Stoby will now officially represent the Virgin Islands on the IFAA World Council. 

VIFAF has held Associate Membership with the IFAA since January 2025. Over the past 18 months, the federation has worked diligently to strengthen its governance, expand participation in the sport, and promote field archery throughout the Virgin Islands.

The approval of Full Membership recognises these efforts and formally welcomes the Virgin Islands into the global field archery community as a voting member, marking an impressive transition from Associate to Full Membership in just 18 months, a press release from VIFAF stated. 

Founded in 1970, the International Field Archery Association is the worldwide governing body for field archery, representing member associations from countries across six continents. The organisation promotes excellence in field, hunter, animal, and indoor archery while fostering friendship, sportsmanship, and international competition among archers around the world. 

Benefits of Full Member status

As a Full Member, VIFAF now enjoys all the rights and privileges afforded to national member associations. This includes voting rights within the IFAA, the opportunity to participate more fully in the organization's governance and decision-making processes, and increased collaboration with other member nations in developing the sport.

The achievement also brings significant benefits for archers in the Virgin Islands. VIFAF said local athletes will continue to have access to IFAA-sanctioned competitions and international championships, with the confidence of representing a fully recognised member nation.

Full membership also strengthens opportunities for international rankings, coaching and officiating development, knowledge sharing, and the continued growth of field archery locally. Additionally, it enhances the federation's ability to build partnerships and attract support for programmes that develop athletes of all ages and abilities.

'Important milestone'

President Stoby described the approval as a proud moment for the federation and everyone who has contributed to its progress. "This is an important milestone for the Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation. Full Membership reflects the work and commitment of our members, volunteers, coaches, and athletes over the past several years. We are proud to take our place among the IFAA's member nations and look forward to creating even more opportunities for our archers to compete, develop, and represent the Virgin Islands on the international stage."

The federation also expressed its appreciation to the International Field Archery Association Council for its confidence in VIFAF and acknowledged the dedication of its executive, members, coaches, officials, volunteers, and supporters whose collective efforts made this achievement possible.

With Full Membership now secured, VIFAF said it remains committed to expanding participation in archery, developing athletes and officials, hosting high-quality competitions, and strengthening the Virgin Islands' presence within the international archery community.