Camp Life
The Camp Experience
To experience Maccabi Sports Camp is to enjoy the best of two wonderful worlds…the skill development, sports IQ, and increase in confidence that comes with an intensive sports camp program combined with the personal growth, joy and relationship building known to be part of a Jewish overnight camp experience.
Sessions begin and end with fanfare. Campers are welcomed to our community at Opening Ceremonies, a time to establish our values and remind everyone of the power of being part of a supportive and inclusive community. Similarly, we culminate our session at Closing Ceremonies where we celebrate the achievements of individuals and the community. Awards celebrating our core values are given to the campers who demonstrate strong character and determination, spirit, willingness to try new things and being a “Mensch.” Elements like these are what set our camp apart and demonstrate our emphasis on a positive Jewish values-based experience.
In between, days are filled with core sports instruction complemented by cabin activities, electives, memorable evening programs and free time to be with your friends and create your own memories. Our main focus, of course, is sports. And while each camper devotes significant time to developing skills around their chosen core sport, each day is balanced with fun and traditional camp excitement. Because choice and independence are important to personal growth, each day offers a mix of electives and planned activities.
Facilitated by counselors and coaches, our approach to 2nd Sport is more recreational than instructive, giving campers the opportunity to play old favorites or try new things while still being competitive and having fun with their friends.
Potential Activities for 2nd Sport
- Flag Football
- Spikeball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Tennis
- Beach Volleyball
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Futsal
- Street Hockey
- Whiffle Ball
- Card Games
- Lawn Games
- Speed & Agility Training
Evening Programs
Evening programs are another way we put the “camp” in Maccabi Sports Camp. Always a fan favorite, evening programs can be an all-camp event like Sports Movie Night or our much anticipated Talent Show, or enjoyed in smaller groups like divisions or cabins and include memorable activities like Scavenger Hunts, Casino Night, or Top Chef. Regardless of the format, they are another way to spend time with friends, laughing and creating memories.
Sample Day
While the daily schedule provides guidance and consistency, camp is also a place for the unexpected. Special days can show up at any time to add an element of fun and excitement to the day.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
7:20 AM | Wake up |
7:45 AM | Breakfast |
8:30 AM | Get Ready for Core Sports |
8:45 AM | Morning Huddle |
9:00 AM | Core Sports |
12:20 PM | Sports Report |
12:30 PM | Lunch |
1:15 PM | Rest Hour |
2:30 PM | 2nd Sport (Cabin Electives) |
3:45 PM | Snack |
4:00 PM | Hang Time |
5:30 PM | Shower Hour & Cabin Clean-Up |
6:30 PM | Dinner |
7:45 PM | Evening Program |
9:00 PM | Evening Huddle |
9:30 PM - 10:00 PM | Lights Out |
The Maccabi Cup
Our camp is built on the culture that we have created over the years and there is no better example than the culture that exists around The Maccabi Cup. It is not simply an athletic competition; it’s an epic event that emphasizes teamwork, spirit, leadership and strong character. During this days-long competition, the entire camp is divided into two teams to compete for the honor of having their team name engraved on the esteemed Maccabi Cup which is displayed for future generations of campers.
Meals
Meals are not only important for the health of our young athletes, but also a great time to build community with cabin mates and friends. Our chefs put together fresh, healthy, and deliciously nutritious meals for our camp. Every meal includes organic, gluten-free, and vegetarian options and we’re able to accommodate pretty much all dietary and allergy restrictions. We also have two snack breaks each day, morning and afternoon.
Shabbat
Each week, time is set aside to observe Shabbat, not only a necessity at a busy camp, but one of the most appreciated and enjoyed times during the session. For us, Shabbat is a time for rest and reflection, and also an opportunity to show gratitude for what we have and the time we get to spend together. Shabbat is definitely a camper favorite.