It’s the end of the week, and I sit back and reflect on all that we have accomplished. We participated in and hosted intercamp events in every sport, attended a number of socials, and went on some amazing camping trips.
Today, we hosted six camps for our annual Takajo Swim Invitational, which had events for boys ranging from ages 8 to 15. Our boys swam beautifully, and Takajo won the invitational, but what was more meaningful to me was watching the connection that was formed as our team members cheered and supported each other throughout the day. Our little boys were in awe of competing with our older campers. The high-fives brought huge smiles to our little guys’ faces. Seeing our older campers wrapping towels around our youngest swimmers was endearing and warmed my heart.
We hosted a 14-and-under lacrosse tournament and were playing in the finals in the second half. The score was 2-2 when there was a scramble in front of our goal and our opponents scored. Just as this occurred, the skies opened up and there was a torrential downpour. A few seconds later, our Athletic Director heard thunder and immediately cleared the field. Our opponents cheered as they accepted this as their victory. Our boys, drenched, were in disbelief that a game could end so suddenly with such an unsatisfying outcome. As our opponents boarded their bus to depart for their camp, our boys had to find the inner strength to accept the unfortunate fate that the weather gods had delivered.
Our Senior boys have a weekly campfire at the end of each week at which they come together and discuss goals and aspirations for their summer. During the campfire, a 14-year-old Sub Senior raised his hand and suggested that we should have a 13th Arch Ideal and that it be “Gratitude.” He looked at his counselors sitting across from him in the campfire ring and took the opportunity to thank them for their love, encouragement, dedication, and support over these last three weeks. This camper recognized that he’s not only developing athletic skills but that he’s growing into a responsible, compassionate young man.
We had our share of highs, lows, victories, and defeats throughout the week, but as we turn the page and reach the mid-point of our season, we know the best is still yet to come.
