It was another busy day at camp, but our boys are in “camp shape” at this point in the season, and they are able to handle the pace of our packed schedule. I always hear stories of parents who, on visiting day, lay down on their child’s bed during rest hour and find themselves taking a much-needed nap. Our guys put in a lot of steps around this place, heading from the fields to the waterfront, to hobby lane.
We had a full day of regular activities today, and we also hosted a 13-and-under lacrosse tournament. I was filled with pride, watching our boys compete, but also witnessing the way our coaching staff guided our boys. Our entire lacrosse staff is filled with collegiate athletes. The boys were coached by the starting goalie on the University of Virginia’s team. Our head referee, who ran the tournament, has coached on the college and professional levels and now devotes his time to working with our boys over the summer because of the experience he had here when he was a college athlete twenty-five years ago.
This place means so much to so many of our staff members. They keep coming back and giving back to a place that helped them develop into the coaches, teachers, leaders, and compassionate individuals that they are today.
The entire camp came together in the evening for an Independence Day celebration. We heard from one of our oldest campers, as well as a counselor from overseas and another from the United States. Each speaker shared his perspective on what the holiday means to them. Across all three speeches, a common theme emerged– a connection between life in the Takajo community, where we celebrate the opportunities we’re given and the fundamental right and privilege to express ourselves in ways that make us feel respected and valued.
As the sky grew dark and the final speech came to a close, the entire camp made its way down to the waterfront for a spectacular fireworks display. Bursts of color lit up the night, a fitting end to a day filled with community and reflection. As the last firework faded from the sky, the sound of Tattoo echoed across our campus. In a moment of unity, our boys stood together and bowed their heads in silence— pausing to reflect on the beauty and meaning of the day.
Tomorrow is the much-anticipated first FaceTime call with parents. While our boys have been distracted for the last couple of weeks, we know this opportunity will bring out some anxiety and emotion for some. Your sons have accomplished a tremendous amount in the last two weeks. Focus on their accomplishments and, when needed, redirect them to share some of the incredible experiences they have had in this first part of the summer.
Please know that your son’s counselors will be with him the moment he hangs up the phone, and we have planned a fun day of activities to give your boys the healthy distraction they may need after connecting with you for the first time in a few weeks.
