Tunis, Tunisia - GSP Tunis successfully completed another year of the ACST Summer Camp! Over 200 children attended the two-week camp held at the American Cooperative School of Tunis (ACST). The camp consisted of sports, recreational games, educational activities, and relationship-building experiences, utilizing the spaces of classrooms, gymnasiums, an outdoor court, and a football pitch. Serving children ages 5-12, the camp ran from approximately 8:00am to 12:15pm over the first two weeks in July.
This year’s theme was “Under the Sea,” and it was evident in the opening kick-off each day with waves, fish, pirates, and sharks! There was a large variety of activities and experiences of indoor games, dance, playground time, swimming, and sports, including football (soccer), volleyball, disc, and flag football. Non-physical activities were art, technology, and English. The participants rotated through several stations throughout the morning along with a short snack break worked in. One parent speaking about her children commented, “I know they love it here. This is the best program ever!”
“I know they love it here. This is the best program ever!”
The coaching team consisted of 29 staff members and 10 volunteers. Beyond providing an enjoyable experience for the participants, another important goal for GSP Tunis is recruiting, training, and mentoring staff members. When hiring the summer camp staff, all candidates go through an interview process, even if they’ve worked the camp previously. Through these conversations, Scott Borders, the Camp Director, gets to know each individual and his or her specific gifts and potential, so that they are placed in positions that fit their experience, promote their growth, and produce the best camp experience for everyone.
“We had an amazing team this year. The camp ran exceptionally smoothly, with very few complications. There was great energy, excellent teamwork, and a natural flow throughout the two weeks.” GSP Camp Director Scott Borders
The success of the ACST Summer Camp has also translated to growth in the fall basketball program. Because families appreciate the quality of programming they saw in the summer, many have signed up for basketball as well. Looking further ahead, the GSP Tunis team will implement a flag football event, spring baseball, and planning and training for the next exciting edition of the Summer Camp!
