March 10, 2025
Diné College Archery Team Competes at 36th Annual AIHEC Student Conference
RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Diné College Archery Team showcased their skill and determination at the 36th Annual American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) Student Conference, competing in the Archery contest held at Thunder Horse Stables and Blackhills Archery. The team, composed of four students—Nanibah Bigman, Tomilethia Chee, Hailey Tomasiyo, and Seidel Joe—was coached by Darwyn Henderson.
The competition tested participants’ skills with 20 3D animal targets at varying distances, requiring two arrows per target for a total of 40 arrows. Despite the challenges of transitioning from flat, indoor target practice to shooting in a new environment with 3D targets, the Diné College team delivered a strong performance.
“We have a very young team,” said Henderson. “This is the first competitive experience for most of them. Two of our archers, Nanibah Bigman and Hailey Tomasiyo, had only started archery about four weeks ago. We began by teaching them the basics of form and technique, while our more experienced members, such as Seidel Joe and Tomilethia Chee, focused on refining their skills.”
Henderson highlighted the challenges posed by the competition’s format and environment. “It was a significant shift for the team, moving to 3D targets in an unfamiliar setting. However, they adapted well and collectively shot over 150 points each, with most nearing or surpassing 200 points. I’m incredibly proud of their effort and growth. They showed determination despite juggling multiple responsibilities during the conference.”
The AIHEC Archery contest included nearly 25 teams, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment for all participants. Henderson expressed gratitude for the administration’s support, which provided the team with new arrows, quivers, and other essential equipment, enabling them to perform confidently at the event.
“This competition built a strong foundation for our team,” Henderson added. “Their first collegiate competition taught them invaluable lessons, and I’m excited about their potential to grow and compete at higher levels in the future.”
For more information about Diné College and its student programs, visit www.dinecollege.edu.
