The Grade 12 learner from Reddam House Umhlanga delivered a standout performance in Argentina to secure the 2025 IFAA World Indoor crown.
Umhlanga, South Africa (26 January 2026) – At just 17 years old, Reddam House Umhlanga learner Danya Thompson is rewriting what’s possible for young South African athletes.
The Grade 12 student recently returned from Argentina as a 2025 world champion, after claiming gold at the IFAA World Indoor Archery Championships (WIAC) in Santa Clara del Mar. The event, held from 3 to 8 November 2025, brought together 267 archers from 14 countries, ranging in age from about 10 to 70, in what the International Field Archery Association proudly calls its global “family of archers”.
Competing in the Young Adult Female Freestyle Unlimited (YAFFU) category, Danya stood out from the start. Despite shooting in an under-21 division.
That composure was tested on day two during the demanding Flint round, which requires shooting across multiple distances: 20 feet, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 yards. This is a format not commonly shot in KwaZulu-Natal.
The final round, however, brought its own drama.
“In the last round I started shooting and the gap started to close. I sat on the chair at half time and gave myself a pep talk and apparently it was pretty decent because I then shot one of the best rounds in my second half.”
That self-belief paid off. Danya pulled away once more, extending her lead to secure the world title by six points.
“Unbelievable! I don’t think there are words to describe that feeling. I felt grateful in a way too.”
Danya was part of a 12-member South African team that enjoyed a remarkable championship overall, returning home with six gold medals and five silver medals.
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College Head Shelley Peringuey said Danya’s world title reflects the kind of sporting environment Reddam House Umhlanga is intentionally building, one that values hard work, courage and a genuine love for sport.
Back home, though, medals are just one part of Danya’s story. She balances elite archery with being a provincial water polo player and a committed student.
Danya is quick to acknowledge the people who helped make it all possible.
“I’m very lucky to have my parents, friends, family and a school that supported me fully. It made it easier to believe I could do this to get through studying, projects and practising with any spare time I had at home.”
For Danya, the world title marks a milestone and not a finish line.
“My goal is to keep shooting and having fun. Next year I’m going to start shooting outdoors to begin the qualifying process for the Olympics. They only added my bow style for the 2028 Olympics as a team event last year, so now I finally have the opportunity to try qualify for it. That’s the next big goal.”
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