National Junior Sports Tournament FAQ's
Q: WHAT ARE THE F.O.C.A. "JUNIOR OLYMPICS?"
A: The Junior Olympics are a week-long summer camp in which Orthodox Youth from across the United States enjoy fellowship and participate in a variety of events, both sporting and non-sporting. The competitions are held in an atmosphere of support and encouragement.
Q: WHAT ARE THE AGE GROUPS THAT ATTEND THE JUNIOR OLYMPICS?
A: All youth ages 10-17 are welcome to attend camp. For camp activities participants are divided into appropriate age groups.
Q: WHERE ARE THE F.O.C.A. JUNIOR OLYMPICS HELD?
A: The Junior Olympics are held at the St. Vladimir's Orthodox Camp and Conference Center. The campgrounds are located in Farmdale, Ohio near Warren and Youngstown.
Q: DO I HAVE TO BE AN F.O.C.A. MEMBER TO ATTEND JUNIOR OLYMPICS?
A: No. The Junior Olympics is a national gathering of Orthodox youth, and all Orthodox Youth are welcome to attend.
Q: ARE THE ATHLETIC EVENTS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE?
A: No. All "competitive events" are performed and played in a supportive atmosphere. Participants receive encouragement from fellow participants and from camp staff.
Q: DO ONLY "GOOD ATHLETES" ATTEND JUNIOR OLYMPICS?
A: No. Our campers have a wide range of athletic skill and interest. Although awards are given for each individual competition, no particular skill level is demanded or expected. Participants are encouraged to compete at their own level of comfort and interest.
Q ARE ALL THE SPORTING EVENTS "INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS"?
A: Although there are individual competitions, there are also many organized team-sporting events throughout the week. Participants are encouraged to participate in the sports of their liking and to the level of their skill and interest.
Q: ARE THERE ALSO "NON-SPORTING" EVENTS HELD AT THE JUNIOR OLYMPICS?
A : Yes. In addition to the athletic events, there are the usual "summer camp favorites ". These include nightly campfires, "hayless" rides, scavenger hunts, counselor hunts, swimming pool games, and other group activities. The camp has a variety of activities including basketball courts, hiking trails, swimming pool, ball field, tennis courts, table games, board games and other activities of general interest. The camp week is also highlighted by a Talent Show and Friday Night dance.
Q: ARE THERE ANY RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES DURING THE CAMP WEEK?
A: Yes. Each day be gins and ends with Chapel Services in the St. Vladimir's Chapel located on the grounds of the camp. The campers also participate in daily choir practice in preparation for the Great Vespers and Divine Liturgy celebrated at week's end. All campers are encouraged to read and/or sing during the Chapel and Divine Services. The schedule for each day includes a session with the camp Chaplain. This session has become known as "Fun with Father". Here the children learn more about the Orthodox Faith and Traditions. The camp Chaplain stays at the camp and participates with the campers in all aspects of the daily camp Life. Campers also look forward to the annual visit and discussions with His Grace Bishop Job of Chicago.
Q: IS THE JUNIOR OLYMPICS DAILY SCHEDULE HIGHLY STRUCTURED?
A: Each day of camp has a nice balance of scheduled events and free time allowing fellowship between campers.
"We’re going to camp…pass it on!"
National Junior Sports Tournament (formerly known as Junior Olympics)
Sponsored by the F.O.C.A.
The Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America
July 8 - 14, 2007
St. Vladimir’s Camp - Farmdale, OH
Youth ages 10 -17 - athletic skills not necessary
* TEAM CHALLENGES * POOL PARTIES * DANCES *
*FOLK DANCE LESSONS * TALENT SHOWS *
* OLYMPIC AWARDS * HAY RIDES * CAMPFIRES * SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP and MORE
Cost is $200 for the week and the deadline has been extended to June 17th!
Ron Tucci (612) 599-1125 or Neena Malinich (321) 363-6171
Interested in being a CAMP COUNSELOR? Contact Ron or Neena
Age 24 and older - $125 stipend * Age 18 – 23 - $75 stipend
