savoring the final days of yda... so bittersweet

Blog Post by Megan Gomez, YDA Summer Counselor

The last week of camp has arrived. Can this really be!? The first three weeks flew by, but I'm hoping to savor every last bit of week four.

Sharefest Summer YDA has been one of the best experiences. I couldn't have asked for anything more.

Today, we started off by sprinting across the gym as a warm-up lead by Anwar. Then, The Avengers headed to the pool while The Swag Dragons played baseball.

We had fun and practiced batting, throwing, and stealing the bases. At the end, we had two very special guests come speak to the kids. Maury Wills, who has the record for most stolen bases at 104 and holds the 1962 national league MVP, spoke to the kids about his life. This man is an inspiration to all. He grew up in the projects of Washington D.C and made it to the MLB through his hard work and dedication. We also had Councilman Buscaino talk about his passion for baseball. I am very grateful that these two speakers invested their time into our day by speaking to the students.               

After getting autographs and taking pictures, The swag dragons were ready for their turn in the pool. The instructors were generous enough to give everyone free time. We all had a lot of fun in the pool with a diving competition and other games. We have had many kids move up a swim level which makes me proud. 

After the activities, it was LUNCH TIME! YUM! At lunch, everyone enjoyed their Subway, then games of soccer, basketball, frisbee, and dodgeball were formed.  

Sadly, it was time to say our good byes and go.  I am looking forward to the rest of the week, but I know the last day will be bittersweet. 

third time's STILL a charm

Blog post by Megan Gomez, Graduate of Bishop Montgomery High School - Class of 2012

We have just completed day three of this amazing camp at Sharefest's Youth Development Academy, and everything is STILL great!  Each day gets better and better as more long-lasting relationships are being formed. 

I was so excited for day three because I heard we were playing soccer, my FAVORITE sport!!! Everyone had to bring their "A" game for this activity if they wanted to compete.  I am naturally competitive so the morning "counselor dance competition", won by the Avengers, was a great way to start day three and really brought out the enthusiasm in the campers.

We had a blast playing soccer (at the David Beckham Academy field by the way...SWEET) and swimming.  The campers participated in many drills, all of which, helped improve the kids' soccer and swimming skills.  We learned the importance of team work and the necessity of having fun. At the pool, after the kids practiced their swim strokes, kicking, and breathing, we were all given some free time and the opportunity to soak up the sun.  Everyone enjoyed relaxing and socializing, and some played water polo or started competing in swim races to the end of the pool.

I feel extremely blessed and fortunate to be apart of something so wonderful.  It's only day three and I feel as though we are a close-knit community, growing into a family.  Sharefest Youth Development Academy really is a life changing experience for me.  I think I can speak for all the counselors in saying that we are making a positive difference in the campers' lives each and every day.

All in all the all, the day was another huge success here at California State University Dominguez Hlls. I am so excited to see what day four will bring!