TORRINGTON – A Torrington native is launching a new recreational business aimed at providing affordable family entertainment to the community.
Jake Johner is preparing to open 307 Extreme Archery Tag, LLC, with a soft opening planned before Halloween or shortly after. The venture was born from what Johner sees as a lack of entertainment options for local youth and families.
“I was born and raised in Torrington and remember the opportunities for entertainment I had as a youth, which sadly have disappeared,” Johner said.
The idea began two years ago as a family fun center concept, but high startup costs led Johner to focus on archery tag instead.
What is Archery Tag? Archery tag combines elements of archery, dodgeball and paintball “but without the pain,” Johner explained. Players use 20-28 pound bows with non-lethal arrows featuring large foam tips.
Unlike paintball, the arrows do not cause welts or bruises, according to Johner.
The objective is to score the most points during timed matches. Players earn one point for hitting opponents and three points for catching opponents’ arrows mid-flight. When hit, players remain in the game and continue playing.
The 62-foot field features two 22-by-30-foot action zones separated by an 18-by-30-foot neutral zone. Players can only shoot or be shot while in their action zones behind attack lines. The neutral zone is reserved for retrieving arrows.
Safety protocols require all players to wear provided helmets and use provided bows. Equipment is inspected after each match. Players must wear closed-toe shoes.
According to John Jackson, founder of the original Archery Tag company, no insurance claims have been filed in the sport’s 12-year history, Johner said.
Game Details Sessions last approximately 30 minutes with 15 minutes per side and a five-minute break between rounds. Including instruction time, complete games can run 45 minutes or longer. Up to 10 people can play simultaneously with five players per team.
The business provides all equipment including bows, arrows, helmets and inflatable bunkers. The portable setup can be assembled almost anywhere indoors or outdoors.
All participants receive instruction before matches begin, including bow training for newcomers.
Operations and Pricing After receiving approval from the Mayor and city council, 307 Extreme Archery Tag, LLC plans to operate primarily at city parks while weather permits, with Jirdon Park being the primary location. Winter operations may move to indoor venues including the city hall community room and local schools.
Initial operations will focus on weekends with open recreational play priced at $10 per person for 30-minute sessions.
The business accepts bookings through its Facebook page “307 Extreme Archery Tag” and at 307extremearchery@gmail.com. The website is now live at 307extremearcherytag.com.
Future plans include birthday party packages, corporate events and youth group activities. Once established, Johner hopes to launch youth leagues for ages 10-17 and adult leagues for 18 and older, complete with championship tournaments.
Community Impact The venture is suitable for ages 10 and up, with the primary requirement being ability to draw back the bow. Johner describes it as physical activity worthy of getting hearts pumping.
“I hope 307 Extreme Archery Tag will provide the community with an affordable family entertainment option, so when the kiddos say ‘I’m boreeeed’ now parents have an option,” Johner said.
He also plans partnerships with local schools to offer archery opportunities and archery tag programs.
While the startup won’t initially create many jobs, Johner said growth could lead to employment opportunities.
Long-term vision includes expanding family entertainment options with bounce houses and inflatable games.
“My vision for 307 Extreme Archery Tag is to provide the community with affordable family entertainment for years to come,” Johner said. “Just would love to keep the community involved and always looking for feedback.”
