For Tuks Archer Joané Coetzee a Bullseye is Second Nature

Tuks Archer Joané Coetzee Targets Podium at World Student Games

For Tuks archer Joané Coetzee, hitting the bullseye has become second nature — and her sights are now firmly set on a podium finish at next month’s World Student Games in Germany.

With a string of national and international titles to her name, Coetzee is considered one of South Africa’s brightest medal prospects at the prestigious event. Her impressive track record speaks volumes: since 2020, she has dominated the local archery scene, securing over 13 national titles across various disciplines — from indoor and outdoor competitions to the demanding 3D field events, where archers aim at life-size animal targets.

A defining moment came in 2023, when she was crowned Junior Indoor World Champion, a title that cemented her status on the global stage.

Coetzee, a sports science student at Tuks, thrives under pressure — a trait essential for success in a sport where physical precision and mental focus collide.

“I actually enjoy tension — it brings out my best,” she shared in a recent interview. “Every competition is a chance to be better than I was the last time.”

That ability to perform under pressure is no accident. Competitive archery demands far more than a steady hand. Core strength, upper-body endurance, and unwavering mental discipline are key. To maintain her competitive edge, Coetzee follows a rigorous fitness regime, including regular runs and hours in the gym.

“We’ve been given a detailed fitness program in preparation for the World Student Games,” she explained. “Being fit helps me stay focused and consistent, especially over long competitions.”

During tournaments, Coetzee blocks out distractions entirely, zoning in on the target with remarkable discipline.

“When I’m competing, it’s just me, my bow, and the target,” she said. “If I shoot a bad arrow, I forget about it immediately. My only focus is making the next one count.”

For Coetzee, archery is more than a sport — it’s a family legacy. Her father, an avid bow hunter, first introduced her to the sport after illness forced her to miss athletics and netball trials in Grade 8 at Hoërskool Waterkloof.

With the World Student Games fast approaching, Coetzee is determined to make her mark — and given her dedication, focus, and hunger for success, few would bet against her returning home with a medal.

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