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Celebrating 30 years

The National Youth Sports Program started in partnership with the NCAA, higher education, governmental agencies and the community to give youth the right start and enhance the quality of children's lives throughout the country. While the government funding has ended, the model program is going strong as we get ready to celebrate 30 years of NYSP on the campus of West Virginia University.

2017 NYSP Dates: June 21-July 20, 2017

We encourage participants to attend all four weeks of the program. Individuals who miss less than three days of camp during the four week program will have his/her name entered in a drawing for a special incentive prize. We do understand if your child cannot attend every week and are delighted to see our campers when they are available. We are looking forward to seeing your child at camp this summer.

For all children ages 9-15

The National Youth Sports Program is for children ages 9-15 (must turn age 9 by August 31, 2017 or still be age 15 when camp starts on June 21 -- no exceptions).

Book Day

WVU librarians visit camp on NYSP Book Day and spend time talking about the importance of reading, even during the summer. Every year the librarians select 4-5 age-appropriate books featuring a variety of subjects. The books are described and then each child chooses a book of interest. This day provides a fun way to emphasize reading during the summer months and gives children a book of their own to read.

Career Education

The NYSP experience includes career education to teach children about career choices and job responsibilities. WVU Career Services staff present workshops highlighting career planning and engage the campers in fun activities to think about their future. Guest speakers educate campers about different career paths and opportunities, such as careers in law enforcement, engineering, theater, medical fields and military units.

Mountaineer Day

If available, the Mountaineer Mascot visits on the last day of camp to have fun with campers. He plays trivia games and provides opportunities to win a variety of incentive prizes for perfect attendance and good sportsmanship. Some examples of the prizes gathered each year include bicycles, autographed sports memorabilia pictures, t-shirts, gift certificates and more. The camp ends with the firing of the Mountaineer's musket followed by lunch with the mascot.

Daily Swimming

We encourage swimming to become an activity children learn and use for a lifetime. NYSP places a special emphasis on swimming because it is an important skill that can save lives; active participation is required by all campers. Certified lifeguards and instructors provide daily swimming lessons that teach basic through advanced skills. No matter the skill level of the camper, everyone can participate in pool activities. Swimming activities include time to splash and have fun in the pool.

Skills Instruction

Sport instructors teach the fundamental skills of each activity; campers have the opportunity to learn and practice each skill. Traditional team sports taught at camp include basketball, softball, soccer, flag football and volleyball. Other instruction may include badminton, tennis, track and field, tchoukball, kickball, frisbee, martial arts and lawn games. The NYSP experience focuses on being part of a group or team within the sports culture.

Sports and Games

Friendly competition can keep kids active, healthy and improve self esteem. We want everyone participating in NYSP to have a positive experience. For the safety and well being of all NYSP participants, rules are explained and enforced, not just while playing a sport, but throughout the entire camp. The NYSP Creed was established to encourage respect for one another and being a good sport in life.

Celebrating 30 years

Walk Tall, Talk Tall, Stand Tall