Matney Captures World Championship
August 18th, 2006
By Cathy Patton
For the second year in a row, 14 year-old Ryan Matney has captured first place in the
IBO World Championship at Snowshoe Resort. Competing in the Fingers Class in the
13-18 age division, Ryan beat out youth from around the world to earn the coveted
trophy, which now joins his collection of 250 other ones.
In fact, Ryan has so many trophies, that his parents, Karen and Arlie, were forced
to box in a porch just to have room to display all of them.
Ryan’s success is even more remarkable considering the fact that he was born
with Cranio Synestosis, a birth defect in which the skull bones are pre-maturely fused.
The premature fusion of the bones prevents the brain from growing properly. When he
was nine, Ryan began lo9sing his vision because of the birth defect.
Considering the fact that he was born w2ith the disorder, Ryan is particularly
proud of representing CCA kids, as organization that assists children with the effect.
Ryan’s love of archery has prompted to push for it in McDowell County schools.
He even met with Gov. Manchin last year to tout is many positives.
“When I talked with the governor, he told me that he was a hunter, too. We
talked about how it makes you focus and use your mind.”
In regard to getting archery in local schools, Ryan reports, “We’re working with
Dr. Manchin, and we’ve met with Alan Stiltner, Wyoming East archery coach, and
Randy Epling, state representative for archery in schools. They’re all in favor of putting
it here.”
It was only four years ago when Ryan up the bow for the first time because of the
need to strengthen his eyes. Before long, it was evident that he was a natural in a sport
that has remained popular throughout the ages. He quickly learned to love archery and
began to practice faithfully.
Ryan made the All-State Archery team in April. He also placed first in the Miracle
Network Shoot in Galax, VA.
His immediate goal is to bag the next buck and bear during the next hunting
season.
“Discipline, strength and dedication are the best qualities an archer can have,”
Ryan says. “The sport has taught me all of that.”
In addition to being in the Olympics, the ninth grader aspires to be a professional
archer and a game warden.
“I want to thank Commissioners Carl Urps and Gordon Lambert for helping to
sponsor me,” Ryan says. “I also want to thank Robbie Collins (Collins Trucking),
Carbon Express, Hoyt Bows, Bohning Archery, the entire DOH staff, my family and my
friends.
“Everyone has been very supportive of my efforts,” Ryan smiles. “I certainly
appreciate everything they’ve done.”
