Summer Programs: Bush Blazer Athletics Invites Cross-Divisional Collaboration and Fun

“Our Bush Blazer Athletic Summer Programs have had an outstanding summer,” shared Associate Athletics Director Erin Saunderson. “It’s been exciting to see so many student-athletes dedicate part of their summer to improving their skills, building relationships, and challenging themselves each day. The effort, enthusiasm, and positive energy our campers have brought to every session have made this one of our most successful summers yet. We’re proud of the growth we’ve seen both on and off the field and court, and we’re grateful to our coaches and families for helping create such a positive experience for our student-athletes." 

Blazers are nearing the third week of camp and making waves in every division. Lower School Basketball Camp, which ran from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 18, had the highest attendance with thirty-eight campers registered in the course. Campers practiced ball handling, learned rules of the game from Boys Varsity Basketball Head Coach Alex Piggott, and played a variety of games. The camp activities encouraged players to step out of their comfort zones and lean into the sport's dynamic, fast-paced nature.

Lower School Soccer was also a popular camp choice for student-athletes, with thirty-six registered players eagerly signing up. This stellar soccer team was led by Middle School Physical Education teacher and Varsity Soccer Coach Marcelino Dumpit Jr. and an all-Bush alumni coaching staff of Abigail Carter  ’19, Rex Karjian  ’22, Pablo Zilly  ’21, Isabelle Rotival  ’24, and Zadie Blish  ’24. 

 

“It was great to be back on campus and help Marcelino run the Bush soccer camp,” shared Rex Karjian  ’22. “Especially as a Lifer at Bush, I can’t tell you how fulfilling it was to work with the Lower School students. The campers were fun, energetic, and lovely to be around, and I even got to coach the son of my Second Grade teacher at Bush.”

 

Not only did faculty and alums provide Lower School players with advice and direction, but current Upper School soccer captains, Charlie A. ’27, Makenna K. ’27, Flora T.  ’27, Anna K. ’27, Stella P. ’27, and Lothar E. ’28 also joined in on the fun.

“This was our second year bringing the camp back after a brief hiatus, and it has been incredible to see it continue to grow,” said Marcelino. “What makes this camp so special is the strong sense of community and the Bush soccer culture. Seeing our alumni return to coach, and our Upper School captains mentor the next generation of players, is what Bush soccer is all about: showing up for one another, leading by example, working as a team, and sharing a genuine love for the game. It was especially meaningful to hear our alumni and student mentors share their memories of Bush soccer, particularly their experiences attending this camp as Lower School students. Those experiences inspired them to come back and create the same opportunities for the next generation, and that's something really special.”

Middle School Girls Basketball Camp, which also ran from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 18, was a testament to one of Bush’s most cherished attributes–its K-12-connected environment. The week featured a combination of Middle and Upper School Basketball players, with Upper School players courageously coaching the younger participants. Thursday, June 25, concluded Middle School Boys Basketball, Middle School Girls Volleyball, and the newly introduced Middle School Tennis Camp, which was added to the Bush Blazer Athletic course offerings this year. 

“I was thrilled to add Middle School Tennis to the summer program this year,” shared Head of Varsity Tennis Coach Cara Holloway. “Watching players of all levels learn, grow, and have fun on the court was such a treat. We balanced fundamental tennis skills with footwork drills and plenty of games - highlights included Bump, Champ of the Court, and doubles match play on the final day.  I am already looking forward to seeing these players on our Upper School teams in the next few years.”

This week, students had a blast working with both Middle and Upper School Ultimate Frisbee athletes during the Ultimate Frisbee Camp (Monday, June 15- Thursday, June 18), running drills, playing games, and learning the rules of Ultimate Frisbee together. The cross-divisional cohesion curated a thrilling atmosphere and helped students forge bonds that are sure to seep into the new school year! 

Middle and Upper School Boys Basketball summer programs ran from Wednesday, July 29, to Friday, July 31, and will be the final Blazer Athletic Camp of the season.

“Our summer camps exceeded all expectations this year,” Erin said. “From record-breaking participation to the incredible support of our alumni coaches, the energy, enthusiasm, and teamwork on display each day were a testament to the strength of the Bush community and the bright future of Bush Athletics.”