The campers woke up this morning feeling very sore after yesterday’s Sufferfest, so much of morning run was dedicated to stretching and preparing for the day ahead. Half the camp stayed at the NAC this morning to take on the high ropes course, where the focus was on goal setting, pushing limits, breathing and positive talk. There was also plenty of communication and teamwork as several teams took on the elements blindfolded.
The other half took off with Coach Andrew to shred the “brown pow” on the mountain bike trails. The bikers made their way over to Trail Head Bike Park where everyone ripped through the pump and flow tracks and tested themselves on balance beams and teeter-totters. There were a few minor crashes, but that will happen when you’re digging deep. After a successful morning for both groups, it was back to the NAC for a delicious and nutritious lunch of grilled chicken sandwiches, fruit and salad.
After lunch the camp gathered at the COE to hear from the US ski team’s sport psychologist Lester Keller about how to mentally prepare yourself for a successful ski season. We learned that the only three things that we can control as athletes is our attitude, our effort and our preparation, and that the most important thing we can do is maintain a positive attitude.
After the meeting, the camp once again split into two groups with one group heading to the Ice Arena to play sled hockey, which is always a favorite. The other group completed a circuit workout in the COE gym, then met with the USST’s Head Strength & Conditioning coach Mike Bahn. Coach Mike put the group through a coordination and mobility workout. After the workout the campers headed to the COE’s hot and cold baths to regenerate their muscles. This was a big hit with the campers!
The groups later reunited and everyone headed off to Jordanelle State Park Reservoir to do some volunteer work for the National Ability Center. The NAC needed the 30 yard beach cleared of rocks, so it was a perfect match for our group! Our reward? We all got a chance to cool off from the hot sun in the reservoir. Finally it was time to head back to the NAC for the best dinner of the week, Taco Tuesday!
With bellies full of tacos and guacamole the campers once again split up into two groups for cooking and biathlon. The cookers mixed up a batch of Black Bean Brownies, and while the brownies were baking they learned the nutritional difference between fast food and a healthy well-planned meal. They ended their session by playing Nutritional Pictionary. Over at the biathalon competition, it came down to the wire as ELITEAM proves to have some very sharp shooters. The day ended with yoga, relaxation and a yummy batch of warm black bean brownies. Another action packed day at camp!
