Bobcats Host Successful “Be Kind” Youth Volleyball Camp

Frontier Community College's Bobcats Volleyball program held its "Be Kind" Youth Volleyball Camp June 1-5 at Center Street School in Fairfield, with more than 95 campers attending throughout the week. 

Campers in kindergarten through fifth grade participated in morning sessions June 1-4, while sixth and seventh graders attended in the afternoon. Eighth through eleventh graders took part in a midday session on June 5. 

Newly hired Head Volleyball Coach Kera Vinson and members of the Bobcats Volleyball team served as coaches during the camp. Players who helped coach included Audrey Taylor, Lauren Burzynski, Riley Roark, Bria Beals, Kenzie Turner, Sarah McCorkle, and Elliana Ames. Former FCC Bobcats volleyball player Lucy Britt also came over to help with Friday's session. 

Campers of all experience levels had the opportunity to build skills, improve game awareness, and gain confidence on the court. They also learned the importance of being a good teammate, a good listener, a hard worker, and a leader. The goal of the camp was for each athlete to learn, grow, and strengthen their love for volleyball in a positive and encouraging environment. 

Vinson said she was happy with the turnout and thankful for all the coaches who helped make the camp possible throughout the week. 

For incoming freshmen Audrey Taylor of Carmi and Kenzie Turner of Fairfield, the camp marked the beginning of a new chapter as student-athletes at Frontier Community College. Both came from highly respected high school volleyball programs and said they not only enjoyed coaching the younger players, but also learned from watching the campers throughout the week. 

"I had a great time at camp," Taylor said. "The girls reminded me that volleyball is such a fun sport that so many love. They always worked so hard and tried to get better while having a smile on their faces and encouraging each other in every drill." 

Turner said the experience was especially meaningful. 

"Camp was so special to me because I had the opportunity to teach the girls the knowledge I have of the game and what it means to be a good person and player," Turner said. "They also taught me a few things about kindness and effort." 

Sophomore Sarah McCorkle, one of the Bobcats' returning players, said this year's camp was energetic and fun. 

"I just loved the camp this week," McCorkle said. "The girls were so much fun and all so sweet. I've never worked a camp that was so fun. I always look forward to seeing the girls. They all hold a special place in my heart now." 

Sophomore Lauren Burzynski, a transfer from Lincoln Trail College, also brought valuable experience to the camp. Burzynski played for the Statesmen last season after previously playing at Carmi-White County High School with Roark and Taylor. 

"I have enjoyed working with the girls all week at camp and getting to witness their love for volleyball even from such a small age. They have learned a lot of valuable lessons throughout this week and have improved so much." 

Vinson praised her players for the way they taught, encouraged, and connected with the campers throughout the week. 

"These ladies have worked so hard," Vinson said. "I am so impressed with their coaching, their genuine kindness, their leadership, and their love for others. Frontier Volleyball is impacting the world forever through these athletes and the lives they touch along the way. What a great God we serve to give us such amazing opportunities to fellowship and flourish." 

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