July 7, 2026 – The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP®) has unveiled its first-ever Grand Champion Award, recognizing the nation’s top all-around student archers during the 2026 NASP® Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida.
The new award was created to honor athletes who demonstrate exceptional consistency throughout the entire NASP® season rather than excelling in a single tournament. Grand Champions are determined by their combined scores across four of the program’s premier events:
- National Bullseye Championship
- National NASP® 3D Championship
- Championship Bullseye
- Championship NASP® 3D
“The Grand Champion Award reflects the values NASP® strives to develop in every student,” said Tommy Floyd. “Success isn’t measured by one outstanding performance but by consistent preparation, sportsmanship, and the ability to perform at a high level throughout the championship season. These athletes have demonstrated excellence in both Bullseye and NASP® 3D competition and have earned the distinction of becoming our first Grand Champions.”
To build excitement, Grand Champion standings remained confidential throughout the championship weekend. Only the scoring officials knew the current rankings, leaving competitors and coaches to speculate until the final arrows were scored. The winners were not determined until the last flight concluded, making for an exciting finish to the inaugural competition.
2026 NASP® Grand Champions
Girls Division
Isabella Caplinger (8th Grade)
Maysville Middle School – Ohio
- National NASP® 3D: 1st Place – 297
- National Bullseye: 2nd Place – 296
- Championship NASP® 3D: 1st Place – 293
- Championship Bullseye: 1st Place – 291
Boys Division
Callan Hignight (10th Grade)
Magnet Cove High School – Arkansas
- National NASP® 3D: 13th Place – 294
- National Bullseye: 3rd Place – 296
- Championship NASP® 3D: 1st Place – 297
- Championship Bullseye: 1st Place – 297
Although neither champion captured every individual event, both athletes consistently finished among the nation’s best throughout all four championships. Their outstanding performances across multiple disciplines earned them the highest cumulative scores of the season, demonstrating that sustained excellence is the defining characteristic of a NASP® Grand Champion.
The Grand Champion trophy was designed and handcrafted by Christie Zimmer and Joel Zimmer, Directors of NASP® 3D. Their craftsmanship created a distinctive award that reflects the significance and prestige of this new honor, and NASP® extends its sincere appreciation for their dedication and creativity.
The recognition also extends beyond the championship stage. Through NASP®’s partnership with the Archery Hall of Fame and Museum, located at the Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, each Grand Champion will receive permanent recognition alongside many of archery’s most influential figures. NASP® also thanks Diane Miller and the Hall of Fame staff for helping preserve the accomplishments of these outstanding student archers.
With both inaugural Grand Champions still eligible to compete in future seasons, the race to claim—or defend—the Grand Champion title is expected to become one of the most exciting traditions in NASP® competition.
For more information about the National Archery in the Schools Program, visit www.naspschools.org.