It was a wonderful finish to our July session today. We kicked off the day with our advanced horseback riders giving us a drill team show in the big ring. The next big event was the final match of the counselor-camper tennis match. The final two camper-counselor pairs matched off while several campers and staff looked on. A time-honored event that has gone on for decades. It takes a full four weeks to get all these games in to complete the tournament. What a great game and a great history here at High Rocks.
What an incredible group of young men. We played hard, we laughed hard, we cried a little, and we even danced a bit. Your son has made new friends and strengthened old relationships. He is more self-reliant. He has even learned a little bit more about himself. I love what High Rocks can do for a young man.
Life without electronics for a few weeks solid is hardly a small gesture today. Not only is it expected, but it is also accepted. Sure, the boys miss their handy pocket computer. I do too. But to watch every one of these guys have real conversations, look each other in the eye, and just lay in the cabin and laugh about senseless boy humor; it’s amazing! I truly believe that summer camp at High Rocks is more than just a fun place to be for a few weeks. It’s life skills that are offered in a fun and meaningful way, in a community that is accepting of everyone. Your son may not have a clean shirt in his trunk, or even a pair of socks that still match. He does have more confidence, more skills, and a heap of stories to tell. I can’t wait for you to hear them.
As you are thinking about camp for next summer, I always like to talk about how the July four-week has a whole bunch to offer, especially if your son enjoys taking the skills he has learned in mountain biking, canoeing, rock climbing, or hiking and heading out on a lot of trips. That extra week adds a lot of opportunities. Let me know if I can help.
The final campfire is always my favorite, it is always a good closing event not only for me but all of the boys. After all the music and stories, we celebrated a few young men hitting their 10-year mark. We celebrate this with a special Fritz Orr paddle that is handcrafted just for them. Ten years is quite a feat for these guys and you have to put in at least a CIT season even if you start as the youngest camper. It is so cool to watch them grow up at High Rocks.
Thank you again for trusting us to mentor your son for these weeks. It is always an adventure and always a privilege. Woody, Zoob, and I will be around if you would like to talk about anything. I look forward to seeing all of you tomorrow. You Rock!
Don Gentle
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