August 17, 2017
East Texas Baptist University hosted a variety of camps throughout the summer, structured to refine the strength, leadership, and faith of students across the state. In addition to managing ETBU camps, the University partnered with outside organizations to provide youth with a camp experience on East Texas Baptist's historic campus.
ETBU Sports Camps are designed to prepare athletes of all levels with tactical training in a challenging and exciting atmosphere. ETBU offered camps for football, volleyball, men and women's soccer, softball, baseball, and men and women's basketball.
"Tiger Athletics was able to host several camps this summer, which brought 700 campers on campus to showcase our first-class facilities," Vice President for Athletics Ryan Erwin said. "ETBU Sports Camps give prospective students the ability to experience a Christ-centered program under the direction of committed Christian coaches and the opportunity to grow and develop as a player."
Current ETBU student-athletes were invited to assist coaches with the sports camps. Tigers built their leadership as they trained campers, while campers benefited from the knowledge and experience of a college athlete.
"I assisted with the ETBU Basketball Camps. My role was to act as a coach to the campers," ETBU senior Dion Mack expressed. "I learned patience as I tried to find what motivated the younger athletes. I enjoyed sharing my personal experience with campers to encourage them. ETBU has helped me put things into perspective. When I came to this program, I realized that, although winning is a priority, doing everything the right way and doing it for your teammates and coaches is the most important thing. The camp allowed me to practice what I've learned at ETBU."
The University also served over 3,000 youth students and camp staff by accommodating external youth camps, including YM360's Generate, Super Summer, Mission 58, ETREYS, the National Cheer Association's (NCA) Cheer Camp, Texas Speech and Debate Camp, Cross Camp, and Camp Fuego.
"It was satisfying to meet with the visiting camp directors and staff at the end of each week to hear that their time at ETBU was enjoyable," ETBU Dean of Students Blair Prevost shared. "We hope, and have seen over the years, that the memories made during camp influence students' decision to attend ETBU. The Summer Camp Hosts Program was established to ensure that the students have a positive experience. We look for hardworking students who demonstrate strong initiative and represent the University well."
The Summer Camp Hosts Program provided an outlet for ETBU students to serve in the background through logistical support. The hosts were responsible for unlocking doors, taking out trash, restocking essential supplies, hosting karaoke and game nights, and setting up various rooms around campus for activities. Many of the hosts shared that the experience allowed them to be involved with camp in a way that fit their personality, while practically preparing them for their chosen career paths.
"I saw the Summer Camp Hosts Program as a mission opportunity, to be a light to everyone who comes to campus by serving them," ETBU senior Kathryn Harmon expressed. "I am interested in pursuing event planning when I graduate and knew this experience would prepare me well. I am blessed that the Lord was able to use me for His work and glorify His kingdom by being an example."