Lincoln, Nebraska, has been selected to host the prestigious 2026 USA archery JOAD Target Nationals & JOAD U.S. Open, bringing top young archers to the city.
The event is scheduled to take place from July 23 to July 26, 2026, at the Lincoln Sports Foundation. This venue boasts over 100 acres, including 60 professionally maintained fields, suitable for both indoor and outdoor competitions.
“We’re very excited to have the USA Archery JOAD Target Nationals & JOAD U.S. Open,” said Derek Bombeck, director of sports for Visit lincoln. “We want to be as creative as we can to make it unique to Lincoln and just blow it out of the water to make sure all the contestants and participants enjoy their experience and Lincoln want to come back for future years.”
Rod Menzer, Chief Executive Officer of USA Archery, expressed enthusiasm for the choice. “We’re really looking forward to it,” Menzer stated.”It’s a college town and a winning town. So, our athletes get a chance to go and see what Husker hospitality is like. And this event keeps getting bigger and bigger.”
Menzer also commented on the high standards set by the previous host. “The word ‘phenomenal’ is not enough,” he said. “The athletes have loved coming here, the parents really like being here. This venue is stunning … Lincoln has quiet the act to follow but they’re up for the task.”
The announcement follows the 2025 Target Nationals and U.S. Open, which will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at Balloon Fiesta Park.
Evergreen insights
The Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) program is a key initiative by USA Archery, designed to introduce young people to the sport of archery in a safe and structured surroundings. JOAD clubs and events focus on developing fundamental archery skills, promoting sportsmanship, and fostering a lifelong passion for the sport. Target Nationals and the U.S. Open are significant annual events that showcase the talent and dedication of these young athletes,providing them with a national platform to compete and improve.
Lincoln, Nebraska, has been actively promoting itself as a destination for sporting events, leveraging its facilities and the welcoming atmosphere of a college town. The selection to host the JOAD Target Nationals & U.S.Open underscores the city’s growing reputation in the sports tourism sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the USA Archery JOAD Target Nationals & U.S. Open?
- It is indeed a major national archery competition for young athletes participating in the Junior Olympic archery Development program.
- When will Lincoln host the JOAD Target Nationals & U.S. Open?
- Lincoln is scheduled to host the event from July 23 to July 26, 2026.
- Where will the 2026 JOAD Target Nationals & U.S. Open be held in Lincoln?
- The event will take place at the Lincoln Sports Foundation.
- What are the facilities like at the Lincoln Sports Foundation?
- The venue spans over 100 acres and features 60 professionally maintained fields,accommodating both indoor and outdoor archery events.
- What is the significance of Lincoln hosting this event?
- Hosting the event highlights Lincoln’s commitment to sports tourism and its ability to accommodate large-scale athletic competitions.
- What is the JOAD program?
- JOAD is