The gymnasium at the Bashaw School was a smashing place to be as summer came to a close.
Al Middleton, along with several other volunteer coaches, hosted a pair of volleyball development camps at the new gym from Aug. 20 to 24 that attracted a number of athletes ranging in age from 12 to 18.
The camps drew volleyball players from Bashaw as well as the surrounding area including Alix, Donalda, New Norway and Camrose for a unique experience in a smaller developmental setting. They were split into two groups — junior and senior high players.
Each group received a total of 15 hours of instruction, with the juniors running for three hours in the afternoon while the seniors took to the court for three hours in the evening.
“During the week, the junior players went through the basics and fundamentals along with some game action. It was all in an effort to provide the athletes with the chance to get some ‘touches’ before the season starts up,” Middleton said in an email.
“For the seniors, there was some work on the basics and game play, but we also went through some advanced attacking and defensive techniques.”
Along with all of the excellent learning opportunities the athletes received, each participant walked off with some memories of the camp which included a T-shirt, a photo and a mini-volleyball.
Middleton added that the camp would not have been possible if not for some wonderful community support.
“A huge thank you to Bashaw and District Support Services and the Bashaw Area Recreation Board for the financial backing to help reduce the fees for the athletes,” he said.
“And also, a special thanks go out to the coaches who volunteered their time to make the camp a success. Everyone seemed to have a great time and are looking forward to the upcoming season.”
From all accounts, Middleton is optimistic the camp will make a return next year.
