After all the campers arrived and settled in, the crew gathered in the gym for a quick flexibility session, then headed out to the ELITEAM Woods for some low-element team challenges… the Box, Nitro, Spider Web, Fidget Ladder and Eagle’s Nest.
The new Eagle’s Nest cargo rope was the hardest challenge, but everyone’s favorite. They will have ample opportunity to practice and improve before Saturday’s Olympic event, and they’re going to need it!
The Box (oddly named, as it is definitely a triangle) consists of three wires, each about 12 feet long. Each team must make their way around without falling off and with only the help of a bamboo pole, and each other. Coach Molly and I were stationed at this low-element. As soon as we explained the challenge, the groups immediately talked strategy. As a coach, it was great to see them trying different techniques as a variety of “problems” arose along the way. This challenge was physically tough as it tested their balance, and mentally tough as it required that they work together to succeed. Some groups were graceful and quick, others, not so much! But all conquered.
After a spaghetti dinner, we played some games and ended with another camp favorite, Andrew’s Crazy relays. These relays are always a huge hit with the kids. Andrew, however, is a stickler for straight lines. This was bad news for Counselor Ava’s line who could not seem to get it together. With extra pushups as the penalty, I think it would be safe to say that the kids in Ava’s line will have sore arms in the morning.
And speaking of extra “penalty pushups”… over in the girls dorm, Kelley had to confiscate some chocolate truffles. A mom, who shall go unnamed, may need to do some pushups for that one!
