Happy Campers, at Holmdel Recreation Camp

Capture the flag, racket-spracket, kickball, sharks and minnows, and SPUD. Sound familiar? Holmdel kids in Kindergarten through sixth grade play these and more at “Rec Camp,” Monday through Friday mornings from 9:15 a.m to 12:15 p.m. at W.R. Satz school.

The Holmdel Recreation Summer Day Camp program has been going on “ten years plus” says Deborah Dow of Holmdel's Park and Recreation office. This is Dow's fifth season as manager.

There are 165 campers enrolled this summer, down a bit from last year, a fact that Dow chalks up to the shaky economy and more parents staying at home. Campers used to be split by age, with younger children at Indian Hill School and older kids at Satz. Due to budget cuts and parent feedback, now all grade levels meet in the same school and break into sub-groups.

“Honestly, I think it's better this way,” said Dow. “I think the younger campers learn from the older ones and that's a good 'cycle of life' lesson in how to get along in social settings.” Likewise, older kids get a chance to look out for the younger ones.

“Eventually, it becomes like a stepping stone because the older campers see how the program is run and they become counselors themselves since they know the program from the inside,” said Dow.

“Our counselors," she says with evident pride, "are great.”

There are 16 camp counselors on staff, many of whom return each summer. They range from late high school age to early college. A few used to be campers themselves, like 16-year old Anthony Fernicola.

“I used to come to this camp every day as a kid,” Fernicola said. “I love this camp, it's my favorite.”

For the first time this year, the Parks and Recreation department has offered a Counselors-in-Training program for teens 14 and older, who pay a $50 fee for the experience. Six teens signed up as CITs this year, three of whom are putting their time toward National Honor Society credits. They assist the staff, oversee games, and serve as "extra eyes" to help keep campers safe.

Special events are sprinkled throughout including visits from Holmdel Fire and Police and K-9 units. Each week there are “away” trips for a nominal fee, tee shirts and transportation provided. Campers have already been to the Freedom Fest State Fair in Upper Freehold. A bowling trip is next, with pizza.

Indoor (and air-conditioned) activities like board games, arts & crafts, and the occasional movie give kids a break from the heat. And for the second year, Friday camp takes place at the ever-popular Holmdel Swim Club where campers rotate between pool, playground, and ball fields.

At $240 for six weeks of daily play, rain or shine, it's a great local bargain, says Dow.

This week's theme: Hawaiian Luau! Wear your grass skirt and get your hula on.