This week the high school girls basketball and volleyball programs disconnected from the comforts of their families, homes, and technology by spending four days and three nights at Cedar Lodge in Lawrence.
This camp was designed to go beyond traditional skill-building, offering a unique opportunity for our athletes to connect, grow, and step outside their comfort zones. Our Panthers dove into a mix of activities, including:
Team-Building Activities: Designed to strengthen communication and trust, creating even tighter bonds between teammates.
Volleyball & Basketball Skill Practice: Dedicated sessions to refine techniques and enhance court awareness in a fun, focused environment.
Adventure & Fun: Swimming, horseback riding, archery, and the experience of horse vaulting!
Creative & Social Outlets: Art sessions, group dancing, singing, competitive team activities, friendship bracelets, campfire and smores.
Meet New People & Cultural Exchange: A truly special part of the experience was meeting their camp counselors who hailed from the UK, Argentina, and Germany! This unique cultural exchange, along with connecting with all the great staff at Cedar Lodge, provided wonderful opportunities to meet new people and broaden horizons.
One of the most impactful elements for the 30 athletes was the "no phone" policy, which truly allowed everyone to be present, engage fully, and foster genuine connections. The result? Lots of laughter, incredible memories, and new friendships across both programs.
Our volleyball and basketball staff are proud of every athlete who embraced this experience. Seeing them step out of their comfort zones and try new things with such enthusiasm was inspiring. It was a powerfully positive experience that deepened team chemistry and bonded the Watervliet Panther Family.
We are already looking forward to making this an annual team event, building on the success and positive impact of this year's camp.
Go Panthers!