
Camp Spirit
Recent reflections by one of our Vietnamese participants
“Hey, do you want to come in and play with us?”
I cannot count how many times Katie has invited these two chubby, young little inquisitors, who have wandered around the courtyard for days just to watch our “big, bizarre, foreign” adults doing so many fun, enthusiastic, and for them very mysterious, sports.
Katie's eyes light up as she engages the child in a playful game of peekaboo, momentarily pausing her instruction to spread joy to our tiniest spectators. This simple act of kindness not only brightens the child's day but also sets a powerful example for our students in camp about the importance of kindness and inclusivity.
Daire, her fellow US coach, known for his booming laugh and being a source of constant energy, often takes a moment between drills to roll his volleyball to a shy youngster on the sidelines. His patience and encouragement as the child tentatively throws it back create a magical moment of connection, the unbridled joy of play that defines childhood.
And as the day goes by, the Vietnamese coaches follow suit, seamlessly integrating these impromptu play sessions into their routines. They understand that these small gestures have a big impact, not just on the children they interact with, but on the entire atmosphere of the camp. It's a beautiful reminder that sport is about more than just skill development – it's about building a community where everyone feels valued and included.
These interactions do more than just entertain; they plant seeds of inspiration. The wide-eyed wonder of a toddler watching our skilled athletes might just be the spark that ignites a lifelong passion for the sport. By welcoming these little ones with open arms and playful spirits, our coaches are fomenting the spirit in the next generation of future athletes, students, and members of a sustainable community.
Moreover, this welcoming attitude extends beyond the children to their parents and caregivers. The sight of professional coaches taking time to engage with their little ones creates a warm, family-friendly environment that resonates throughout the program. It's not just about playing and studying; it's about fostering a space where families feel at home and part of something special.
In these small but significant moments, all our coaches at CFC demonstrate the true essence of what makes our program special. They show that at the heart of great coaching lie not just expertise and skill, but also compassion, inclusivity, and the ability to spread joy beyond the boundaries of the training field. It's this unique blend of professionalism and warmth that sets CFC apart and makes it a beacon of community spirit in the world of sports.

