From Appalachian Streams to Camp Leadership
Growing up in the small town of Abingdon, Virginia, Hunter was surrounded by the natural beauty of Appalachia, where he first learned to swim in the local lakes and rivers. This early exposure to water sparked a lifelong passion for aquatics. "I've been involved in aquatics in some capacity my entire life," Hunter shares. When the opportunity arose to work at a summer camp during college, he eagerly jumped at the chance, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him back to us as our Waterfront Director.
Ensuring Safety with a Splash of Fun
As the Waterfront Director, Hunter's top priority is safety, but he approaches it with a unique blend of rigor and warmth. "We operate under a strict Buddy System. No one swims alone, which means every camper has a partner at all times," Hunter explains. This system ensures safety and fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere where campers look out for one another. "The Buddy Board is a crucial part of our safety measures at the waterfront," Hunter explains. "Each camper has their own tag on this board. When campers are on the dock or about to enter the water, they flip their tag to indicate they're at the waterfront. This system allows us to see at a glance who's on the dock and who isn't." Hunter emphasizes the efficiency of the Buddy Board, noting, "When it’s time for a head count, we can quickly verify everyone’s presence by checking that the number of flipped tags matches the number of campers on the dock. It’s a fast and reliable way to ensure everyone is accounted for, allowing us to maintain a safe environment without interrupting the campers' swim time or dampening their enjoyment."
Teaching and Overcoming Fears
Hunter’s role at the waterfront goes beyond managing safety; he helps campers safely engage with water and overcome their initial fears. This includes addressing their hesitations about deep water or the unfamiliar elements of a lake. Witnessing their growth and newfound confidence is what he finds most rewarding. "Seeing campers leave camp not just as better swimmers but also as braver individuals is incredibly fulfilling," Hunter reflects. "They go home a little braver, better prepared to face life’s challenges—that's what really matters to me."
Deep Dive into Waterfront Activities
Hunter's favorite activity at the waterfront is paddle boarding. He finds it not only safe but also an excellent way for campers to gain confidence on the water due to its buoyancy and stability. "Paddle boards are fantastic. They're safe, fun, and offer a bit of freedom on the water that you don't get with other vessels," Hunter states with enthusiasm.
Building Confidence One Swim Test at a Time
The waterfront is meticulously organized into zones based on skill levels, ensuring every camper progresses at a comfortable pace. "We start campers in the crib, a shallow area perfect for beginners. Once they're ready, they can take a swim test to move on to the bucket, and eventually, the lake," Hunter describes. Each zone has its own set of challenges, and passing these tests is celebrated with a color-coded wristband, symbolizing their achievements and newfound skills.
Envisioning the Future: The Polar Bear Plunge
Looking ahead, Hunter is eager to bring back the Polar Bear Plunge, a cherished tradition that kickstarts the day with an early morning swim. "Imagine beginning your day with a brisk swim, then warming up with hot chocolate on the dock as the sun rises over the lake," Hunter envisions. "It’s a magical experience that I want every camper to enjoy. More people need to witness these beautiful lake sunrises
—they're moments that campers will remember for years to come.”
A Memorable Moment
One of Hunter's fondest memories involves a spontaneous late evening paddle boarding session. "There was this one night when a group of campers asked to try out the paddle boards. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and by the end of the session, they were all better at it than I was," he laughs, recalling the joy and pride in their accomplishments.