There is something thrilling about waking up the morning of something big. Heading into a competition that you’ve worked towards, planned for, and practiced for. Walking towards the field with your team, dressed in your Starlight uniform, ready to take on the opponent, you can hear your heart beating in your chest and you’re pumped to show off your skills. Campers love participating in Wayne County and Invitational tournaments, as it gives them the chance to compete with other camps in sports such as tennis, baseball, gymnastics, roller hockey, dance, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and swimming.
Everyone goes into these competitions with a desire to win, but the underlying good sportsmanship value is instilled in campers from the very beginning, and everyone goes in with one goal in mind: to have a blast. Just like with every activity at camp, campers are encouraged to show a positive attitude, try their best, appreciate and respect their leaders, and ask for help when they need it. These values become ingrained in each camper, and when it is time for tournaments, everyone is on the same page and are there for friendly competition and a great time. These tournaments give campers the chance to show off everything they’ve learned throughout the summer in a particular sport or activity. Coaches get campers prepared for their games in each participating sport or activity, and are walking right along next to them when their team enters the field. The benefits of competition are endless, and campers learn and grow so much through the entire process.
Camp traditions are kind of like an inside joke between friends; you really have to be there and be part of it to understand and appreciate the power and the feeling that is associated with them. Camp traditions are things that happen at camp that every camper and staff member can relate to, whether they went to camp 70 years ago or are experiencing it now for the first time. They are a way for campers to connect with their fellow campers, their counselors, and the camp itself. Some “traditional” traditions at camp like singing Friends and the Camp Starlight Alma Mater, All Camp Show, Opening Campfires, skipping around the flagpole, divisional cheers, and singing in the dining room create a sense of connection and belonging to the Starlight family. Many traditions at Camp Starlight are held sacred to campers and counselors alike, and they’re just one of those things you have to experience to truly understand.
Sport: Boys Basketball
Sport: Girls Lacrosse
Sport: Boys Basketball
