2023 Summer Camps at OLSH were a hit, as new offerings provided a range of experiences for children young and old, and annual offerings provided a familiar environment for returning campers. The theatre department kicked off the summer with three different camps for high school, middle school, and elementary school students throughout the month of June. Members of the theatre department taught campers musical numbers and dances, and worked on their stage presence. Each of these camps concluded with a special performance of musical medleys. Campers' families were invited to the OLSH auditorium to enjoy these performances and to see their kids shine on stage.
OLSH Theology teacher Caitlin Snatchko '10 and alumni parent Becky Lieb led a group of K-3rd graders in Creator Camp, where kids learned the story of God's Creation through art, music, activities, and prayer. They spent time enjoying nature on the beautiful OLSH campus, visiting the various religious statues throughout our grounds, and becoming connected with God in the chapel. Campers seemed to enjoy their arts and crafts time, creating religious chalk art, making butterflies out of coffee filters, and more. Snacks were themed each day to correspond with the aspect of the Creation that the campers were learning about. Mrs. Snatchko and Mrs. Lieb were assisted by current and former members of OLSH Campus Ministry.
Mrs. Hollabaugh, OLSH English teacher, conducted a College Readiness Course to prepare juniors and seniors for what's in store for them after high school. Throughout the week, students prepared admissions essays, learned how to complete college forms, and even practiced dorm room cooking by making mug cakes and cookies in an air fryer.
Athletic camps included Cross Country, Girls & Boys Basketball, Football, Girls & Boys Volleyball, and Cheerleading. Each camp was run by the sport's respective coach and small groups of Charger student athletes and alumni. Campers learned drills, played games, practiced teamwork, and made friends on the court and on the field.
Football campers were joined by a special guest - Bernard Clark Jr., Robert Morris University football coach and former NFL linebacker (Bengals & Seahawks). Clark attended the University of Miami, and was a key contributor for the Hurricanes as they claimed national championships in both 1987 and 1989. He has coached at various universities throughout his career, including James Madison, Liberty University, and Pitt. This was a special opportunity for young players to hear from a pro.
Cheer Like a Charger Camp concluded our busy summer at OLSH, and included a special performance for friends and family to close out the one-day bootcamp. The young ladies in attendance at camp will cheer with the Chargers squad at the home football game on Saturday, September 2nd.
Each of our campers received a T-shirt to commemorate their time with us, and many are already looking forward to attending again next year!