Coach Rak’s Free Basketball Camp Continues to Make a Difference

More than 40 local children spent part of their summer on the basketball court thanks to the third annual Coach Rak Free Youth Basketball Camp.

Open to boys and girls ages 6–12, this year’s camp welcomed 40 young athletes—25 boys and 15 girls—for five days of basketball fundamentals, skill development, teamwork, and fun. Whether campers were picking up a basketball for the first time or sharpening their skills, each child was encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy the game.

The camp was made possible through the support of an outstanding group of volunteer coaches and mentors, including Coach Campman, Coach Fisher, Dr. Brown, Logan Young, Herm Petti, Coach Dave Sherman, Father Joe, and Deacon Chris. Their willingness to give their time and share their knowledge helped create a memorable experience for every camper.

Now in its third year, the camp has become much more than a place to learn basketball. It has grown into an opportunity to teach young athletes the importance of teamwork, respect, sportsmanship, kindness, and giving back to their community.

That mission is reflected in a quote from Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, whose words continue to inspire the camp’s purpose: “If you have an opportunity to make things better and you don’t, then you are wasting your time on Earth.”

The week concluded with a pizza party where campers and coaches celebrated a successful week together. During the gathering, Coach Rak reminded the young athletes of another timeless lesson, sharing legendary coach John Wooden’s words: “What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.”

Special thanks also go to Becky Shrum for volunteering her time to photograph the camp and capture the many smiles, friendships, and memories made throughout the week.

As the camp continues to grow each summer, it remains a highlight for many local families and a testament to what can happen when volunteers come together to invest in the next generation.

Families are encouraged to watch for announcements about future Coach Rak basketball camps. If the past three years are any indication, next summer will once again provide local children with a wonderful opportunity to learn the game, build friendships, and create lasting memories.