Bulldog Camp Celebrates 30 years

In a tug-of-war competition, Bulldog campers learn about teamwork and sports skills. The camp is staffed by university students, who are usually kinesiology majors.

by Mary Lisa Russell

Marking its 30th year, the Bulldog Summer Activity Program will soon welcome to campus kids from miles around. The program is sponsored by the Department of Kinesiology and uses a variety of activities to promote exercise for children from ages three to 14.

"I have campers that went through the program years ago who had so much fun that they are bringing their children to experience it," said program director Ken Aldrich.

Program activities are designed to offer instruction for the skilled exerciser as well as the beginner; they provide each participant with increased efficiency of movement. Instruction is available in a variety of activities such as gymnastics, aquatics, bowling, tennis, soccer, baseball and dance.

"We have three goals -- that campers are safe, that they have fun and that they learn," said Aldrich.

The summer program offers a special preschool slot for children three to five years of age. Aldrich said this age group should have some type of prior child care center or preschool experience. The participants are introduced to rhythmic games, self-awareness activities, gymnastics, aquatics, group activities and team sports.

Another program group is kindergarten through third grade. Students receive a strong program in aquatics, gymnastics, tennis and dance as well as exposure to bowling, badminton, body conditioning, recreational games and team sports.

Children who are nine years old or in the fourth grade can receive special instruction in baseball, basketball and soccer. Students who choose the sports option receive one week of the regular program and one week of the sports option in a single session.

The camp focuses on fundamentally correct sport skills that help the children learn how to exercise properly. "One of the dangers that children face when they specialize in one sport too early in life is that of over-use injuries," Aldrich said.

According to Aldrich, the program covers multiple areas of activity that physically educate the campers. The program also gives kids an overall view of exercise.

The camp has three sessions; each session runs for two weeks in June and July from 8 a.m. to noon. Participants who register before May 6 will receive a discount. Camp packets are available by calling (559) 278-5169.