The Start of the RYLA Experience

Camp RYLA has officially begun and is off to an energetic start. It has only been about twenty-four hours since campers first arrived, yet the yawning and fatigue has already set in. Right away the campers were met with excited cheers as they were pulled out of their cars to enter camp. Moving through the camp students were dropped off at their respective cabins where they received tours of the cabin. But just because this was the first day of camp, they didn’t waste a moment. Campers met their Counselors and other cabin members creating team names. Towards the end of the day campers received the orientation as well as a guest speaker before heading to bed.

The first morning began with Calisthenics at 6:45 AM which for many of the campers was something very unique and energizing to prepare them for the long day ahead. It was a great way to start the day off and encourage competitive cabin spirit with the performances of Cabin chants. With everyone jolted awake campers were sent prepare for the rest of the day, starting with the flag ceremony. Campers had a quick breakfast and then began the fast-paced activities known as the Round Robins. Moving between activities quickly, campers endured many puzzles meant to encourage teamwork and increase fatigue. The different stations had problems that needed to be solved by the cabins using teamwork and communication skills.

Campers at one of many Round Robin activities - the Human Knot

The day continued with a lunch and an amazing experience with special speaker Troy Stende. Troy helped campers identify the power of spoken word and its impacts on individuals. Furthermore, the campers were able to break barriers in their lives as well as a physical wooden board. The board was able to symbolize a unique struggle to each individual camper and how they wished to overcome this obstacle. Campers shared an emotional connection in that moment seeing their friends take large steps to breaking their barriers. The atmosphere was electric and unifying bringing the campers closer than ever before.

Campers were able to finish of the night with an amazing performance by piano prodigy, Baron Ryan. Baron hammered in the points that success doesn’t come without struggle, that greatness is not about what you do but about who you are, and when times are tough don’t think big, think small. Wrapping up the presentation campers went to work with their committees on their daily tasks. Every night is finished with a meaningful and reflective discussion amongst cabin members. Campers are tired yet excited for what is to come.