I think improving the image would help archery. When i tell somebody im into it, im immediately ready to start explaining that its not all about wooden sticks and Robin Hood and tights. Ive never yet come across a snowboarder/racing driver/bungee jumper/*insert sport with cool image here* that was ashamed to admit what they do.
I think the H2H is good for spectators, and it its fun to watch, therefor it must be fun to do...!!!
I think though on the "insert cool sport here", is the classic responce.
Thats both chicken and egg symptom. You say your an archer, and you
expect a "ooh, thats a bit nerdy" responce, so there is a bit of hesitation/cringe when you say it, which then leads to the "ooh, thats a bit nerdy" where as if you were bold and confident and said it out loud, then the question is, "why are archers soo proud of their sport, whats so great, maybe i should try it"
You never see a snow border/ surfer with a nerdy image. because you dont look for it. Have you seen a good set of waves in winter, when the surfers are all huddling together with neoprene balacavas gloves and the rest. Not something that looks too cool.
For example, I used to be alittle put off saying i was a Kayaker. Most poeple see kayaking as Lake sessions, Raft running for kids, and anoraks and wet suits. And yes it is for beginners, as for surf kayaking and freestyle/whitewater is a very different affair, but i had a pre-programed responce in "im a kayaker" Wait for the "ah!" then comes the excuses, "yeah but im a white water kayaker" Then it changes when you explain that ive paddled the Nile, and alot of rivers in the alps, and that often ends in "oh, that sounds interesting"
If i was bold enough i woundnt need to feel like i should justify my self. and that in its self causes curiosity rather than stigma.
Golf is pritty nerdy, with its dress code and the likes. But thats no more than archery, but folks know what golf is about... So with some visability alot of the myth about archery being a back room sport would help confidence and stop it being a back room sport. Visability at personal and national level sport.
So after that rant, my summary is, that if you feel the need to explain your sport due to the audiance not knowing what it is you do, you feel like you need to justify it. This gives the wrong impression.
Cyclist is a road racer.
Mountain biker is just that.
golf is golf
Snow boarding is also just snow boarding.
runners are marathon runners.
Thats what people see.
What is an archer?
Thats the image we need to portray, with confidence, and being bold about it. That includes in the office, at home and in the pub, and i defy anyone to call me a nerd/geek for what i choose to do.
As Nats has said, have a go's till the come out your ears and all the rest of the suggestions about image, but also the attitude you say it with!