PRCC aims to add Archery in Fall 2025

Dylan Dunaway - PRCC Sports Information

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — Archery is coming to Pearl River this fall.

The Wildcats recently finalized details that will make The River the only Mississippi community college to currently offer archery as a varsity sport.

"Archery is another great sport that has incredible roots in Mississippi's high school. While conducting our initial research, we had very positive feedback from the state's high school programs," PRCC Director of Athletics Patrick Ochs said. "They're excited that their student athletes will have a great opportunity to compete collegiately; and we're thrilled to expand our Wildcat family to students who we may not have been able reach previously."

With the addition of eSports and now archery, PRCC will boast 14 teams in the fall: Volleyball, men's and women's soccer, football, cheerleading, men's and women's basketball, baseball, softball, men's and women's golf and rodeo.

"The River is a special place. Our coaching staffs do a phenomenal job of cultivating an unparalleled culture and experience for our student athletes," Ochs said. "Growth is an integral ingredient to the health of our institution. We're ecstatic to create a new avenue to positively impact athletes in our area and bring more families onto our beautiful campus."

Archery will be a co-ed program that will compete in USA Archery. The season will span the fall and spring semesters. Scholarships will be available.

MEET THE COACH

Experienced coach and decorated veteran Brandon Butler has been tasked with leading the fledgling program.

"We could not be more excited to have Coach Butler step up and spearhead the Archery program," Ochs said of Butler, who will remain as an assistant with the men's soccer program. "Butler has always impressed us with his leadership characteristics, willingness to help anytime he's called upon, organization and drive. Starting a new program is a big task, but we're confident Coach Butler is up to the challenge."

Added Butler: "I am excited to lead this program because of the opportunity to build something special from the ground up. I look forward to mentoring student athletes, fostering a competitive spirit and bringing pride to PRCC through dedication and hard work.

"I am eager to develop a program that not only competes but thrives."

Butler earned a Bachelor of Sciences in Education and Human Sciences from Southern Miss, Majoring in Sports Coaching in Education; with a minor in Strength and Conditioning. He's currently working towards his Masters in Interscholastic Athletic Administration at William Carey University.

Butler brings a wealth of coaching and experience to PRCC. In addition to coaching at PRCC, Butler was the head boy's soccer coach at Picayune Memorial High School and is an assistant soccer coach with the Hattiesburg Futbol Club.

Prior to getting into coaching, Butler proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as squad leader and section leader.

"I have a passion for archery, with experience in both competitive shooting and coaching," Butler said. "I understand the technical, mental and strategic aspects of the sport and am dedicated to helping athletes refine their skills.

"Whether working with beginners or seasoned competitors, my goal is to bring out the best in each athlete."

WHY PRCC?

Butler as a convincing message for any student athletes who are looking for an opportunity to compete collegiately.

"PRCC offers a unique combination of top-tier coaching, supportive teammates and a commitment to individual and team success," he said. "Our program will provide student athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level, gain valuable experience and be part of a supportive community that values growth and achievement."

PRCC is scheduled to break ground on an archery-specific facility soon.

Mississippians who are interested in being part of PRCC's inaugural archery team should email Butler at bbutler@prcc.edu.

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