Challenger Soccer Camp

So what do you do when you hit the hottest week of the summer in NC? Move to the North Pole?

That would really help, but no.  The penguin is Bob.  And he was the mascot for this year's Challenger British Soccer Camp. Carter was so excited to be going back this year. The 100 degree temps don't seem to phase him and playing soccer for three hours every day is exactly what he wants to do.

Bob, on the other hand couldn't take the heat.... 

We have loved all our past years with Challenger Camps. They expertly teach soccer skills, but more importantly they teach character- respect, responsibility, integrity, leadership, and sportsmanship are coached, encouraged, and emphasized in everything they say and do. The coaches are all top notch.  This year he had Coach Rachel (from Ireland) and Coach Rich (from the UK)...

They plan a week of fast-paced fun, learning, and competition.

The kids were divided into 5 teams that competed in a week long World Cup tournament.

They played their hearts out every day, all day.

In the end, it was Carter's team- Brazil- that won!! They were so surprised when the announcement was made.  It was a combination of game results, participation in spirit events, and character. Carter was very proud of his flag he made for Friday Flag Day.  That's it stuck in the ground in front of their team.  I drew the diamond, but he and Julia did the rest themselves with paint.

Proudly accepting their "trophy"...

Thanks, Challenger, for an awesome week! We were sad to see it end.  Thanks Rich and Rachel for all your heart, wisdom, talent, and endurance you poured into our kids.  I loved Coach Rich's comment on the last day about Carter, "That is one entertaining little man!" Oh, you have no idea! And he's like this 24/7 :)  Can't wait until next August!