Chester Township’s Basketball Camp a hit with kids

Chester Township thrilled the Township’s children and parents alike with a 4-day basketball camp that culminated with an afternoon of family fun. With summer quickly coming to an end, children anxious from 18 months of lockdown, the reinstatement of in-person education, and all of the other challenges of the past year and a half, this camp presented a welcome relief to both children and parents alike.
All of the children appeared to be beyond excited and eager to be out playing with their peers, running from the bounce house to the game bus. Parents looked just as excited to see their youngsters running about, playing, and just enjoying a summer day, free from the strife and stress caused by Covid. I have to say the highlight of the afternoon was the game of flag football. Councilwoman Risheena Payne made it look like so much fun as she sprinted around the field with the youthful participants…all the while laughing and flashing that trademark smile. Anyone watching knew she was having as much of a good time as the children. According to Councilwoman Payne, “Both parents and children really needed this outing after having survived the past 18 months of lockdown.” Being a parent herself, she certainly knows a thing or two about navigating the landscape, both pre and post Covid-19.
In addition to the fun and games, returning students were treated to a feast of a BBQ, and book bags filled with much-needed school supplies, to help ease the financial burden on parents and put students in the mindset of learning.
Councilman Calvin Bernard said, “These types of events are essential to the emotional health of our young people. They are the future.” It was evidenced in the smiles on faces that the event was successful for everyone in attendance.