Laird More and Ethel McEwen have seen hundreds of children go through the summer sport camp program they started 18 years ago. And last week another group of 65 children spent their time learning about different Sports venues mixed in with bible lessons.
“The intent (of the week-long camp) is to give the kids a fun experience with a purpose,” More said.
The week involved campers taking part in baseball, soccer and road hockey, according to More.
Known as the Arthur SU Sportz Camp, instructors come from Scripture Union Canada and “they’re all university athletes” who spend their summer going from community to community to work at church sport camps.
The original camp was started by More and McEwen in association with their church, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian. The two found there was a need in the community for a Christian-based summer Sports camp.
The first camp offered only baseball, but subsequent camps have also offered basketball and volleyball.
More said it is generally the participants who help establish what Sports will be made available.
The camp, with participants ranging in age from six to 14, has grown as churches across the village help out supplying lunch and bible instruction.
“It’s good to have the churches working together,” More added.
“It’s a positive environment,” More said of the camp’s philosophy. “It’s fun. They (participants) mix with other kids and make new friends.”
Laird said this year’s camp had two volunteer helpers who participated in previous camps and who were considered “difficult children” who are now helping out.
Both he and McEwen are proud to see participants who herald from families where their parents participated in the camp.
“That’s one of the benefits,” More said.
The camp hosted an awards ceremony on the last day honouring all the participants with different awards.
“They get awards, but it’s not just for the best,” More said of the ceremony.
