The Siren: June 24, 2023
Over the last few days at camp, we kicked off our Green-White competition for the summer. Green-White is a summer long event that brings together campers from all ages, uniting them under the colors of Green and White. The new campers were sorted on Thursday into their colors, which become their team identities throughout their North Star career. Yesterday afternoon the boys played North Star Ball, a variation of capture the flag with multiple balls that can be passed between teammates as they work to get them all across the line. With the entirety of camp as the boundaries, the game really has an epic feel. Then tonight was our first Green-White series, which means that each camper will compete in an event across the landscape of activities at camp to represent his team. We had various sports and activities across the different age groups this afternoon.
Throughout the summer, the Green-White competition is meant to showcase the talents and spirit of our campers. There will be events like The Green-White Marathon, huge games of All-Camp Capture the Flag, the Camper-Counselor Hunt, and the Dodgeball Extravaganza, plus two additional Green-White series. At North Star Camp, our approach to competition is deeply rooted in our philosophy, emphasizing the importance of kindness and camaraderie even in the midst of spirited gameplay. We want our campers to understand that they are not just opponents on the field; they are friends, both before and after the game. We believe that true sportsmanship lies in treating one another with respect, regardless of the outcome.
Too often, in other settings like school recess or local youth sports, we hear the echoes of negative and hurtful dialogue. The taunting remarks of “we won, you stink” can ruin the joy of the game and leave lasting negative impressions. At North Star, we want our campers to feel safe and supported in competition as well as in their cabins, and we want the language of friendship and encouragement to thrive in both places.
After nearly 6 days of perfect weather at camp, we had some much needed rain arrive just before the end of evening program. After starting their second set of activities today, plus the Green-White Series and challenge games, it seemed like everybody was ready for some cabin time and a restful evening. Additionally, everyone was well fed after a delicious barbeque chicken dinner with watermelon and our famous Martha’s Bread (a cinnamon sugar loaf that the kids go bonkers for).
Today’s Grace:
– Vince Lombardi
“Leaders aren’t born, they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.”
