Sunday morning we officially kicked off our Final Four competition.  During Final Four, camp is divided into 4 college teams.  This summer Penn State, Columbia University, Cornell and Northwestern University will compete in the Final Four games. Campers and staff wearing white, purple, black or blue tanks are scattered throughout camp battling it out in countless sporting and mind challenging events. 

Opening ceremonies took place around 11am. As the rain started to come down, we headed off to happy camper hall.  The rain didn’t put a damper on our enthusiasm or collegiate spirit. Each team unveiled their banners, creative skits, and sang intensely and in perfect unison.  The winner of the banner went to Penn State. Columbia came up in first place for opening ceremonies as well as in the running relays.  Currently, the overall standings are Columbia & Penn neck and neck followed by Cornell and Northwestern.  We still have many more games to play and the winner of Final Four could go to any team. The Gonzo Relay, which will take place tomorrow morning, usually decides the fate of each team.   The Gonzo Relay is a massive and intense relay comprising of over 60 events over a 2.5 hour time span. I expect it to be one of the finest relays in Agawak history. 

Today has been an active day. Campers have been participating in soccer, softball, basketball, capture the flag and some passionate tug of wars have gone back and forth on the beach lined with screaming campers and counselors.  With only 8 full days remaining, I am beginning to see some exhaustion setting in.  We have so much to pack in…….campfires, treasure hunt, another midnight movie, cup cake wars, activities, comedy sports, lake swim, auction prizes, to the Top of Agawak Mountain and so much more.  It’s always a push at the end to squeeze everything in.  I know we’ll be sending worn out, but happy campers home to all of you.  Be prepared to let them catch up on some well deserved sleep.  We don’t want to waste a minute of camp life here. 

I am thankful for my outstanding staff.  They are an exceptional group of young people who genuinely care about their campers.  Parents, don’t forget to send them a quick note of appreciation. I know it would mean the world to each of them.  Enjoy your last few quiet days before the hustle and bustle of campers returning home with never-ending silly stories and crazy songs.

Smile on,

Mary and staff