Our very first sports summer camp

YMCA Exeter youth worker, Graham shares highlights of the first sports summer camp that took place in August.

“During a very hot week we ran our first sports camp for young people aged 10 –16 years. Over twenty young people enjoyed three days at Clyst Vale Community College.  

“From rounders and kwik cricket to football skills and matches, a traditional sports day and badminton, the young people had the chance to take part in a range of sports and activities.

“Our Children and Wellbeing Practitioners also joined in the fun, running a couple of sessions with the young people around the topic of anxiety, which were very well received.

“Despite the heat, everyone took part in the activities and mixed very well with each other. By Thursday, we had to bring out the big guns – ice lollies – to help everyone cool down.

“There were some wonderful highlights, including seeing the young people take part in the traditional sports day. Events like the egg-and-spoon race, bean bag balance, football dribbling, three-legged race, and sack race were all on show. The young people really enjoyed this. My favourite had to be the wheelbarrow race. Absolutely hilarious.

“There was such a good atmosphere, and it was an absolute joy to be there. The engagement with the young people was so positive and even in tricky situations, with the impact of the heat things were managed calmly and with love. Every leader and volunteer went out of the way to make sure that it was a great experience for the young people.

“Thank you to everyone who planned and took part in the Sports Camp. Thank you for everyone’s hard work and commitment to the young people. It was an absolute pleasure. All I would ask for next year, can we have it a little cooler, please!”