West Virginia University Libraries recently added a twist to a local summer program that features sports, sun and fun. Libraries representatives visited with Monongalia County youth attending the National Youth Sports Program and presented campers with books.
Parker Moore is from New Mexico and is visiting his father for the summer. He took home two books, Million Dollar Throw and Leepike Ridge. He likes sports, treasure and adventure books. He said reading enables him to learn and experience new things. Reading can also be encouraging.
“It’s inspirational, so I can be better at sports,” Moore said.
Hosted by the WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, the NYSP helps kids improve physical fitness through sports at various sites on the WVU campus.
“The Libraries are glad to be a part of the National Youth Sports Program camp,” said Libraries Dean Frances O’Brien. “I like the emphasis on building sports skills that carry over into lifelong activities, and the positive examples for academic achievement.”
“I look for books for the campers that emphasize ingenuity and discovery and are fun to read,” she added. This is the fifth year that O’Brien has sponsored the book donation.
Each year, area sponsors provide help including transportation, books, backpacks and event tickets. “We rely on contributions from groups and individuals. We couldn’t operate without our sponsors,” said Dana Brooks, CPASS dean and NYSP project administrator.
“NYSP has served thousands of campers. Kids take a positive message away from the camp and use that message in their own lives,” he added. This summer, Brooks reports that 200 campers enrolled in the program, with average daily attendance reaching 170.
The camp is a result of year-round planning, according to Brooks, and takes extensive effort to arrange the camp each summer. Campers, ages 10-16, receive free lunch and transportation. All campers must have a physical exam which is provided as a free service on camper orientation day.
Camp activities take place at the WVU campus Shell Building, Coliseum and Natatorium. All equipment is provided at no charge to the campers. NYSP also offers a strong educational focus. This year’s group of campers got to try out model rocketry.
The camp will celebrate 25 years of operation next year. CPASS Dean Dana Brooks hopes to continue partnerships with WVU Libraries, WVU, Monongalia County Board of Education, City of Morgantown and other community donors.
According to Brooks, NYSP needs ongoing financial support. For more information visit http://cpass.wvu.edu/nysp or contact Dr. Dana Brooks, Dbrooks@mail.wvu.edu
-WVU-
07/20/11
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CONTACT: Kimberly Cameon, CPASS
304-293-0827, Kimberly.Cameon@mail.wvu.edu