By Dana Lance, Media Relations Specialist
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office
The Chickasaw Nation is gearing up for an exciting summer of camps, clinics and academies. The divisions of youth and family, culture, education, health and others focus on providing educational activities for youth to explore new opportunities and learn new skills. Many camps and academies have application deadlines approaching soon.
Planned Chickasaw Nation summer 2011 youth camps and clinics and deadlines include:
Kid Play/Parent Caddy Golf Tournament
Lakeview Golf Course, Ardmore, Okla.
May 21
Registration on site begins at 12:30 p.m.
Golfers tee off at 1 p.m.
Tournament open for Chickasaw golfers ages 8-18 (senior in high school).
$15 green fee required
A junior tournament open to Chickasaw students ages 8 to 18, this event helps golfers learn about tournament play as they spend the day on the golf course with a family member, who serves as their caddie. Caddies must be 16 or older. Due to junior tournament regulations, golfers and caddies will walk the course. Prizes will be awarded by age category: 10 and under, 11-14, and 15 and older.
A $15 fee covers green fee, a drink, and range balls and is payable the day of the event. Additional information is available online at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps or contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620.
Environmental Camp
Ada, Okla.
May 24-27
Application deadline April 12
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-12.
Be enlightened about the world during Environmental Camp, hosted by the Chickasaw Nation Division of Housing and Tribal Development.
Students, ages 8 to 12, get a behind-the-scenes look at many facilities that go unseen by the typical citizen, and learn on-going conservation efforts. A trip to the Oklahoma Science Museum and the National Weather Center at the University of Oklahoma is planned. This is a day camp. Additional information is available online at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps or contact the division of housing and tribal development at 580-272-5456.
Camp Survivor
YMCA Camp Classen, near Davis, Okla.
May 31-June 3
Application deadline April 12
Open to Chickasaw students ages 9-16
Camp Survivor is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition and exercise in a fun and positive camp atmosphere. Campers can expect to experience a variety of activities such as swimming, horseback riding, climbing wall, canoeing, fishing, hiking and stickball. There will be tribal councils, team building activities and competitions. This is an overnight camp. For more information, contact Allen Elliott at 580-310-7981, ext. 83261 or email allen.elliott@chickasaw.net or log on to www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Golf Camp
WinStar Golf Course, Thackerville, Okla.
Beginner and Intermediate Camp- June 6-7
Advanced June 8-9
Application deadline May 13
Each camp is open to Chickasaw students ages 8-18
Along with an introduction to the game of golf, Chickasaw youth will learn lessons in honor, integrity and sportsmanship. Instruction for all skill levels is provided with a highly knowledgeable and motivated staff. Golf Camp is an overnight camp. Students should apply for the camp which represents their level of play. Golf Camp is supported by the United States Golf Association, the Professional Golfers Association of Central Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Nation and Chickasaw Foundation. For more information contact the department of youth services at 580-310-662o or online at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps .
Native American Junior Open
Lakeview Golf Course, Ardmore, Okla.
June 10
Registration and tee times to be determined
$20 registration fee required
Open to Native American youth ages 8-18
The Native American Junior Open also is a qualifying tournament which allows youth to experience a tournament atmosphere without the pressures of a school or association tournament. It also is a qualifying tournament for Chickasaw youth ages 12-18 for Team Chickasaw. Team Chickasaw will participate in various tournaments throughout the year. The $20 registration fee covers the cost of green fees, lunch and range balls. Pre-registration is not available. For more information contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps .
Chickasaw Nation Space and Aviation Camp (CNASA)
Ada, Okla.
June 12-17
Application deadline April 15
Open to Chickasaw students from fifth grade to high school seniors
Chickasaw Nation Space and Aviation Camp (CNASA )is a learning program designed to encourage Chickasaw students interested in aviation, space, science or math to pursue careers and opportunities in their fields. Students spend the week flying in simulators, learning through hands-on demonstrations, and have a chance to fly in a real plane. CNASA is day camp, and a limited number of scholarships are available. If applying for a scholarship, complete a CNASA application postmarked by the deadline date. A copy of the participant's Chickasaw Nation citizenship card or certificate is required; a Certificate Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) will not be accepted. For more information, contact Sara Willie at (580) 272-5579 or at sara.willie@chickasaw.net.
Chickasaw Language Sports Camps
Various locations
June 20-24
Open to Chickasaw students grades 1-6
Please visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps for more information.
Tennis Clinic
Ada Tennis Center, Ada, Okla.
Session I – June 13-16, 8 a.m. to noon, ages 8-11
Sessions II – June 27-30, 8 a.m. to noon, ages 12-18
Application deadline May 13
The goal of these clinics is to provide Chickasaw youth the opportunity to learn the sport of tennis, which can be played for a lifetime. Two tennis clinics are offered, a beginner, and an intermediate.
Both sessions are open to Chickasaw youth ages 8- 18. In either clinic, the participants will learn honor, integrity, sportsmanship and teamwork. Campers may only apply for one session.
For more information contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Entrepreneurship Academy
Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, Okla.
June 19-24
Application deadline May 20
Open to Chickasaw students grades 10- 12
For Chickasaw students who have an interest in business; the academy is a partnership between Southeastern Oklahoma State University's John Massey School of Business and the Chickasaw Nation. Students will work in teams to plan, promote and produce a table-top business as well as simulate a virtual business. Upon completion of the academy, students graduate with a completed business plan and the tools and knowledge to write future business plans. The weeklong academy is conducted on the campus of SOSU in Durant, Okla. with the students staying at the Chickasaw Nation Children's Village in Kingston, Okla. Preference is given to senior graduates. For more information, contact Callie Roebuck at the Chickasaw Nation Honor Club office at (580)421-7711 or at callie.roebuck@chickasaw.net.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes XTreme Camp
Cross Point Camp, Kingston, Okla.
June 19-23
Application deadline is May 13
Sponsorship for Chickasaw students ages 15-18
This overnight camp is for young men and women who want to enjoy a week full of challenging activities, great fellowship and awesome assemblies. Campers will have the opportunity to water ski, water tube, skeet shoot, rappel, ride horses, compete in a variety of huddle competitions, scale the 65-foot climbing tower and experience the high ropes challenge course. Campers will also enjoy outstanding speakers, great music, and challenging competitions. This camp emphasizes leadership, fun, personal growth and building great friendships. The Chickasaw Nation will sponsor the attendance of selected Chickasaw youth to participate in this camp. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
NASA Space Camp
Huntsville, Ala.
June 26-July 2
Application Deadline April 15
Open to Chickasaw students ages 9 -18
This challenging week-long school is conducted at Huntsville, Ala., and designed for students to discover their engineering talent. Participants get hands-on training, as well as learn about the mental, emotional and physical demands astronauts must face. Fields of study include engineering, space technology and aerospace science. It is conducted at NASA Space Center in Huntsville, Ala. For more information, contact Sara Willie at (580) 272-5579 or at sara.willie@chickasaw.net.
Chickasaw Language Immersion Family Camp
Tatanka Ranch, Stroud, Okla.
June 19-24
Application deadline May 19
Open to Chickasaw families
This overnight camp is designed to promote the use of the Chickasaw language within Chickasaw families. Camp activities include kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, gardening and other activities with primary instruction being through Chickasaw language. This is an overnight camp and participants must have transportation to and from camp. For more information or an application, contact Rachel Wedlow, Language Outreach Coordinator, at 580-272-5540 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Yakni Moma Alphisa “Justice for a Nation” Court Camp
July 5-7, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tribal Judicial Building, Ada, Okla.
Application deadline June 27
Open to Chickasaw students ages 10- 16
A two-day clinic that educates students about the operations of the tribe's court system, this camp emphasizes leadership and personal growth. Students will also tour the Chickasaw museum and Capital building in Tishomingo to learn the history of the Chickasaw legal system. Students will be introduced to individuals who support the courts such as Lighthorse Police, judges, justices, Peacemakers and court clerks. Each student will also have a part in a mock trial.
For more information, contact Connie Tillery at 580-235-0281 or email Connie.Tillery@chickasaw.net or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Champions Football Clinic
Ada High Football Complex, Ada, Okla.
July 7-9, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Application deadline May 13
Open to male Chickasaw students ages 8- 18.
Led by veteran coach Ken Heupel, this clinic teaches the fundamentals of football, teamwork and leadership and features former University of Oklahoma quarterback Josh Heupel and other special guests. Highlights of the clinic include an 8-to-1 student to instructor ratio, offensive and defensive drills, flag football, and a competition where each student may select one guest to join them in the game. This is a day clinic. Participants must have transportation to and from the clinic. For more information contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Champions Cheerleading Clinic
Chickasaw Nation Family Life Center, Ada, Okla.
July 8-9, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Application deadline May 13
Open to female Chickasaw students ages 8-14.
At this clinic, a team of Day of Champions cheerleading coaches will instruct female students on motion, jumps, spirit, rhythm, health and fitness. The experience will include mentoring in the areas of character, responsibility, goal setting, dedication, hard work and integrity. Cheerleaders will be able to enhance their abilities and learn basic cheerleading fundamental geared to their skill level. There will be a Saturday performance and each student may select one guest to join them for the performance. This is a day clinic. Participants must have transportation to and from the clinic. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Chikasha Sayah (I Am Chickasaw)
Location to be determined
July 11-13
Application deadline May 13
Open to Chickasaw students ages 10 -14.
Overnight Camp
This camp provides students with opportunities to learn more about their Chickasaw heritage, culture and their responsibility in caring for our environment. Students will participate in stickball games, marble games, squirrel stick games, archery, stomp dancing, arts and crafts and Chickasaw language. They will also receive instruction in environmental education and the importance of natural resources. Swimming, boating and volleyball are also planned for this overnight camp. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes Competitors Camp
Camp Walk On Water, Stuart, Okla.
July 13-17
Application deadline is May 13
Sponsorship for Chickasaw students ages 11-14
This overnight camp combines the great facilities and activities of Camp WOW with the athleticism and competition that has defined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes ministry for more than 50 years. Campers will be assigned to a huddle led by a college athlete. Huddles will meet together to pray and play. Each day will feature athletic competitions in the water and on land along with teambuilding exercises. Activities will include the climbing wall, zip line (over land and water), the Blob, water slide, ropes course, obstacle course and much more. Bible devotions, upbeat music and topical discussions will also be a part of the day's activities. This camp focuses on fun, competition and personal growth. The Chickasaw Nation will sponsor the attendance of selected Chickasaw youth to participate in this camp. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Youth Basketball Clinics
July 14-16
Family Life Center Gym Ada, Okla.
And
Southern area of Chickasaw Nation (to be determined)
Application deadline May 13
Youth Basketball Clinics
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8 -14
Students have the opportunity to learn basketball techniques from current and former high school and university players and coaches during the half-day clinics. Participants must choose only one clinic. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Tanumpo Hosa Apisa (Marksmanship Camp)
Two separate one-day clinics
July 23-24
Application deadline May 13
Open to Chickasaw students ages 10 -18.
Tanumpo Hosa Apisa “gun shoot straight” is designed to encourage participation in a long-term training program for young Chickasaw students wishing to excel in Olympic style rifle and pistol shooting or competitive archery using a compound bow. These clinics feature instruction on gun safety, marksmanship techniques and archery for a maximum of 50 students. These clinics will focus on the disciplines required for competition-style target shooting and consist of both classroom instruction and firing practice. The pistols and rifles used for these clinics are Olympic-style air guns. Instruction will be provided by certified instructors, Lighthorse officers, and local, nationally-trained coaches. For more information, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy (CSAA)
July 18-30
East Central University, Ada, Okla.
Auditions:
Saturday, April 9
University of Central Oklahoma, School of Music
100 N. University Drive, Edmond, Okla.
Or Saturday, April 30
East Central University, Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center
1100 E. 14th St., Ada, Okla.
Application deadline April 4
CSAA is a two-week academy that provides youth opportunities to gain experience in visual and vocal arts. Students ages 8 to 19 are eligible to audition for the academy.
Students ages 13 – 19 must schedule an audition time in order to be eligible for acceptance into CSAA.
All students ages 8 - 19 are invited to audition.
The following disciplines will be offered for older student: Composition, Dance, Vocal Music, Theatre Performance, Theatre Tech, Photography, Visual Arts 2-D and 3-D, Video Production, Textile Design and Creative Writing disciplines are offered for older students. Younger students rotate through Visual Arts / 2-D and 3-D, Theatre, Dance, Creative Writing and Vocal Music classes.
Chickasaw and other American Indian students receive scholarships to attend. Chickasaw preference is utilized. Non-Natives will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis at a nominal fee dependant on residential or non-residential status. These residential opportunities are for qualifying students who live outside the Ada area, ages 13 – 19.
For more information, and to receive an audition packet, contact the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities at 580-242-5520 or email csaa@chickasaw.net. Applications can be found at www.chickasaw.net.
Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Youth Academy
Aug. 1-4
Lighthorse Police Headquarters, Ada, Okla.
Application deadline July 8
Open to Native American youth ages 13- 17.
The Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Youth Academy provides an excellent opportunity for Native American youth to explore a career in law enforcement. Students will hear from law enforcement personnel and will also learn life skills such as CPR, communication, safety and crime prevention.
Forty Native American youth will be selected. Chickasaw youth will be given first priority for the camp.
For an application and more information contact George Jesse, Assistant Chief of Police at 580-436-1166 or at george.jesse@chickasaw.net or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Halloween Lock-In
Location to be determined.
October 28
Open to the first 100 qualified Chickasaw youth ages 9- 15.
Application deadline September 30
This Halloween themed lock-in will allow students to participate in mini-bowling, Go-Karts, batting cages, mini-golf, climbing wall, bumper cars, bumper boats, arcade and lots of other fun activities. Each participant will have access to a pizza and soda buffet during the event. There will be door prize drawings throughout the event and a Best Halloween Costume Contest. Chickasaw youth will receive first priority. Students will not be allowed to leave the facility until doors open on October 29, 2011. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. For more information, contact the department of youth services at (580)310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Hayaka Unta Camp
Location to be determined
October 14-16
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8 - 14
Application deadline September 16
Overnight Camp
The goal of this camp is to give Chickasaw youth and their parent or guardian an opportunity to share quality time together while enjoying the natural beauty of the outdoors. The camp provides a safe, wholesome and enjoyable experience where relationships between youth and their parent or guardian can be strengthened while away from the everyday distractions of life. Some activities include fishing, skeet shooting, hiking, archery and much more. Camping is primitive style in a provided tent. A total of 20 students will be selected to attend this unique camp. Students may choose either a male or female parent or guardian to accompany them. From those applicants not selected to attend this camp, 20 more campers will be chosen to attend the Hayaka Unta Spring camp at the same location in April 2012. For more information, contact department of youth services at 580-310-6620.
Application Information
All applicants must include a copy of the camper's Chickasaw citizenship card. Submitting the application does not guarantee selection to the camp.
For more information or obtain an application, contact the department of youth services at 580-310-6620. Return application to Youth Services, 231 Seabrook Road, Ada, OK 74820; or fax (580) 310-6626. Additional information is available online at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps . Applications may be submitted by mail, fax or online.
