If you tuned into ESPN 8: “The Ocho” this past August, you witnessed the high-octane action of the 2025 Extreme Archery Championship. Held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Walt Disney World, this event showcased the sport’s growth and its unique equipment requirements, including the crucial role of archery tag netting.
In our previous feature, we analyzed why many Archery Tag facilities choose #18 x 1″ DuPont® nylon for their permanent installations. However, a nationally televised event introduces a new challenge: on-camera visibility.
The Evolution of Archery Tag Netting for Broadcast
When a sport is filmed for a network like ESPN, the choice of archery tag netting becomes a strategic decision. For the 2025 championship, the organizers needed to ensure that the “vanishing” effect of the net was maximized. This allows both the live audience and the television viewers to see every arrow trajectory and player movement clearly.
To achieve this, the event utilized #12 x 1″ DuPont® twisted-knotted nylon netting. While the #18 twine is excellent for heavy-use commercial gyms, the #12 gauge offers a thinner profile that is significantly less obstructive to high-definition cameras.
Why Twine Thickness Matters
Choosing the right archery tag netting involves balancing safety with the viewing experience. Here is why the #12 thickness was the ideal choice for “The Ocho”:
- 1″ Mesh Security: Despite the thinner twine, the 1″ mesh size remains constant. This is the critical measurement required to safely stop and contain the specialized foam-tipped arrows used in the sport.
- Enhanced Transparency: The #12 gauge has a smaller visual footprint. Under bright stadium lighting, this netting becomes nearly invisible to the viewer, providing an “unboxed” feel to the competition.
- DuPont® Strength: Because the netting is made from genuine DuPont® nylon, it retains the high tensile strength necessary to handle repetitive impacts, even with a thinner twine diameter.

Custom Containment Solutions for Unique Applications
The 2025 championship proves that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for sports containment. Whether you are building a professional tournament court or a local recreational space, the specifics of your environment dictate the best material.
At Gourock.com, we specialize in providing custom-made nets tailored to your exact needs. We offer a wide range of twine thicknesses and mesh sizes to ensure your project is safe, durable, and aesthetically professional.
Are you looking for high-performance archery tag netting or a custom containment solution for your facility?
Visit Gourock.com today to explore our custom nylon netting options. Whether you need heavy-duty barrier nets or high-visibility broadcast solutions, we can supply the perfect fit for your next project!
– Josh Grzyb @ Gourock.com Netting and Custom Nets