Dance flats, basketballs and cheer chants continue to fill the school after June 18 with noise as younger students get a feel for a higher level of athletics. CHS hosts six youth sports camps over the summer to give elementary and middle schoolers a chance to experience a preview of the next step in their athletic journeys.
“I think because the camps are open to all levels, it can help kids who maybe aren’t that experienced get a taste of what it’s like,” activities director Kevin Ford said. “They’re all set up for everyone to be involved and everyone who’s there wants to be there.”
Current student athletes volunteer and help manage these youth sports camps, leading to connections and bonds that can last throughout their sports journeys. According to the American Psychology Association, having a mentor can have positive lifelong effects. Research shows that mentees perform better in and out of school, academically and athletically.
“Seeing that bond between the younger kids who are excited to dance and the dance team members is always fun,” varsity dance team coach Katherine D’ercole said. “I think it helps socially connect people throughout the summer and allows them to see new faces that are outside their neighborhood.”
According to boys basketball coach, Brad Leydig, not only do younger students benefit from these camps, the older high school students who participate as helpers or counselors do as well. For Leydig, it’s a full circle moment.
“These camps have always been the highlight of my summer,” Leydig said, “I started off as a high school player and counselor for these camps, and it’s nice to give back to my community and get others involved.”
Bright Horizons states around 87% of parents reported that they experienced challenges or disruptions while their children were home for the summer in 2025. Summer camps can prove to be a positive experience for both children and parents who need someone to watch over them.
“It helps parents as well because the camps are usually around five hours,” Ford said. “It’s kind of like daycare in a way.”
According to Ford, many students come back year after year to attend CHS’s camps. US Sports Camps states that even beginner-level programs can strengthen a young athlete’s love for their sport and give them a chance to continue working on skills and techniques even in the offseason.
“I’ve seen players go from summer youth camp to then moving on to high school and then even playing collegiate athletics,” Leydig said. “In order to grow the game and in order to be really good at it, you have to love it first, and summer camp is the best way to fall in love with a sport.”
