Youth Sports Camp Sign-Up Begins
Contact: Kay Hyatt at (207) 581-2761
ORONO, Maine — Registration is underway for the National Youth Sports Program’s 12th season at the University of Maine. Beginning June 28, the free day camp offers six weeks of fun, teamwork and skill development for area boys and girls.
The camp features swimming, plus other skill-building and educational opportunities for children ages 10-16. Soccer, softball, track and field, an outdoor adventure component and math-science lab activities are on the schedule, and other ideas are in the works to offer an even greater variety of activities, according to Stephen Butterfield, UMaine professor of education who has spearheaded the award-winning program since its establishment.
A partnership between the U.S. government and participating universities and communities, with oversight by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the camp represents a $1,000 value at no cost to participants. Under the federal grant, the majority of campers must come from families who meet Department of Health and Human Services income guidelines. Some slots for youngsters of families above the income guidelines are usually available, also at no cost, and those names are placed on a waiting list.
In addition to the activities, the program includes a comprehensive sports physical examination, breakfast snack and lunch. Transportation is provided from designated, major pick-up points in every direction within an hour’s distance of Orono. The camp runs Monday through Thursday from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The last day is Aug. 5.
Conducted in a highly structured, friendly, non-competitive learning environment, the program and staff are committed to helping campers achieve the goals of believing in themselves, getting along with others and experiencing success through individual and team achievement.
For registration information, call the UMaine NYSP office, (207) 581-2466.