By Paul Vozzella
Hometown Weekly Sports Reporter
Fueled by passion spanning across multiple generations, Gino Dellemonache of Walpole, has found success in an uncommon sport. The 9-year-old is mastering the game of archery at a young age.
Beginning at just 5 years old, Dellemonache has learned plenty from his father, Mo, and coaches at XSpot Archery in North Attleboro, leading to his first place finish at the Massachusetts Junior Olympic Archery Development Program in the Indoor Compound U13 event.
Following his top finish, Dellemonache also competed in the largest archery event on the east coast of America in Lancaster, PA. There, he placed sixth place in the Compound U15 event.
“I felt accomplished because I’ve done it for a while and I didn’t think I would actually get that far,” said Dellemonache thinking back on his triumph.
The arrow-slinger doesn’t just limit himself to inside events, however. When the nice weather rolls around, Dellemonache loves to take his talents into the woods to hunt bears, dinosaurs and even yetis. Of course, they are made out of foam and span across a planned out course.
Whether it’s hunting imaginary monsters or shooting at a circular target board, Dellemonache finds gratification in not only lining up the shot itself, but focusing on the toughness that is required between the ears.
“I enjoy it, but sometimes it’s challenging,” said Dellemonache.” You’re competing against yourself.”
“One of the biggest descriptions of the sport is that it’s a mental game,” added Mo. “At the end, if you shoot a bad shot, put it aside and worry about the next one that you’re going to attempt. I think that’s one thing that has been ingrained in him from myself and his coaches.”
The elder Dellemonache has been around the sport for around 30 years and was a catalyst in getting his son involved with the sport. Going down the line, Gino has continued to rally family members into the sport including his cousins and his sister, Stella.
Along with practicing at XSpot, the Dellemonaches belong to Woburn Sportsmen’s Club in Bedford. There, the whole family is able to enjoy shooting with their bows and arrows. Regardless of age, the Dellemonaches believe archery is something that everyone can find joy in.
Outside of the casual shots he takes with his family, Gino commits at least four days per week to practicing. His journey in archery is only beginning and he does not plan on stopping soon. His next big goal is Las Vegas where the biggest archery event in the country takes place. If his recent success is any indication, Dellemonache will be there in no time.
