Blog

Let The Games Begin

Today marked one of the most anticipated and exciting moments of the summer at Camp Chen-A-Wanda—Olympics 2025 officially broke! As campers were finishing up snack call, the unmistakable sound of the Olympic fanfare echoed throughout camp. Instantly, the energy shifted. Cheers erupted, kids sprinted from every corner, and the buzz in the air was electric. We all knew what that music meant—Olympics had begun, and something incredible was about to unfold.

The entire camp gathered at the amphitheater, where the celebration reached new heights. Excitement radiated from every face as we officially welcomed the Olympic spirit to Chenny. We proudly announced our teams: Red Monaco, Gold Spain, and Blue Finland, and revealed our team Captains and Sergeants, who were met with thunderous applause. As each camper discovered which team they’d be competing for, a sense of pride, unity, and purpose swept through camp. It was a perfect afternoon—one of those standout moments that truly defines what camp is all about.

After team meetings, we headed up to the small soccer field for Tugs of War, and it was nothing short of epic. The field was alive with cheers, laughter, and pure, spirited competition. Whether pulling the rope, cheering from the sidelines, or dancing between rounds, every camper was part of the magic. The camaraderie, the joy, and the togetherness made it one of those unforgettable Chenny nights where everyone was completely in sync—and no one wanted it to end.

Olympics 2025 is off to a phenomenal start, and if today was any indication, we’re in for a week filled with passion, teamwork, friendly rivalry, and memories that will last a lifetime. More greatness to come tomorrow—let the games begin!

Todays Game Recap:

Freshman/Junior Boys Soccer CAW 4 vs. Westmont 10

Inters Boys Softball CAW10 @ Lavi 0

Supers/GC/CIT’s Boys Hockey Tournament @ Lokanda – Game 1 CAW 3 vs. Westmont 2 Game 2 CAW 0 vs. Lokanda 6

Girls Gymnastic Competition @ Bryn Mawr – Emily Kaufman (Bars), Mia Pillersdorf (Vault) and Sophia Gene (Vault)

Super Girls Soccer CAW 1 @ Westmont 4

GC/CIT Girls Tennis CAW 1 @ Westmont 4

When we reach this point in the summer and Olympics breaks, something truly special sets in—we’re in full stride. The early days of homesickness are long gone, replaced by a deep sense of belonging. Campers are comfortable, confident, and completely immersed in the rhythm of camp life. The bunkmates who were once strangers just a few weeks ago have become something more—they’ve become family.

There’s a noticeable shift in the air: friendships are growing stronger, laughter comes easier, and the magic of Camp Chen-A-Wanda is in full bloom. Everyone, from the youngest camper to the veteran staff, is letting loose, embracing the joy, the silliness, and the spirit that makes this place so unforgettable. Camp just feels like home now—and being part of this vibrant, connected community up here in the mountains makes all the sense in the world.

Days like today remind us exactly why we come to Chenny. It’s to feel this joy, this connection, this sense of purpose and place. In just 21 days, we’ve built something real—and on days like today, with Olympics underway and the camp spirit alive in every corner, you can’t help but feel it in your bones. This is why we’re here. This is what it’s all about. This is why Life is Great at Camp Chen-A-wanda.