Frequently Asked Questions

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16 Camper Cabins that house 7-10 Campers and 2 Counselors

Once You Have Enrolled:
Please Download
The
Parent's Information Packet *

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***Camper Chat Room! ***

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1. What is Kennebec's Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy Like?
One of the oldest camps in the US, Kennebec started in 1907. Many of the original buildings and facilities are still used giving this Traditional "Harvard of Camps" the enchanting aura of a classic summer camp. Facilities include: 50 acres of woods, fairways, greens, bunkers, 300 yd driving range, Pro Shop, basketball, tennis, complete waterfront with water-skiing, sailing, kayaking and of course swimming in crystal clear Salmon Lake, 45 buildings, comfortable rustic cabins with toilets and sinks.
*Click Here for a Winter Picture *

Endless One-On-One Instruction and Attention
Video TIP OF THE WEEK (Click Here)

2. Where is The Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy?
We are right in the center of Maine's Belgrade Lakes Region, a beautiful area of lakes and mountains. One hour and ten minutes from Portland, Maine. About 3 hours and 20 minutes from Boston, MA, 4 hours from Montreal, Canada and 7 hours from New York City.
Find us on this map. click here

3. How do I get there? *** It is closer than you think and we make it EASY !! ***
It is only 3 hours driving from Boston and only 7 hours driving from New York . Planes are only a short flight away from the airport where we pick up your children and escort them to and from camp and the airport. We take the worry out travel for you and help you with all your arrangements.

In addition, we have a van that picks up kids on the East Coast and drives them to and from camp once every four weeks.

Airline TravelWe try to accomodate all your needs in order to inusre a safe and worry free experience. In order to do so, we need your cooperation in making arrangements. First we can only accomodate travel plans that are in writing on the Transportation Form found in your Parent's Information Packet ( Please call the office if you do not have one) and is sent in according to the schedule for forms

Secondly, we will fill all requests for transportation based on availability and feaseability.

Thirdly, please send all luggage and golf clubs in advance to arrive the Friday before the arrival Sunday.

Fourthly, Your Transportation worrys are over !!please use our Carlson-Wagonlit Travel Agency to insure the best co-ordination and success.

DAVID'S TRAVEL a Carlson-Wagonlit Travel Agency
104 Park Road
West Hartford, CT 06119
Telephone:
1 800 542 2791
USA 860-233-1218
860-233-4209-fax
Email: dtravel@sprynet.com

Many campers arrive with their families by car, while other US campers fly into Portland, Maine (PWM). Portland International Airport. West Coast and International campers who are willing to make connections can connect through Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS) to Portland International Jetport (PWM). Maine Golf Academy staff meet incoming campers' flights.

Airport Van service is provided without charge, from and to Portland International Airport only (PWM) for all campers arriving or departing on flights between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM on scheduled departure and arrival Saturdays and Sundays. We meet your child at the closest point to the gate we are permitted to wait and will deliver them likewise to the closest point to the gate we are permitted to go.

Staff will meet all other flights to and from PWM that are outside the 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM times; or at Boston International Airport (BOS) for an extra fee. Transportation fees will be based on the time of arrival and departure, and the distance from the camp. The arrangements for all transportation can only be confirmed on the filled out Transportation Form sent in to the Maine Golf Academy by April 30th. Any arrangements, changes or addtions after that time must be received in writing and will be subject to availability and feaseability.

Prepare for Take-off Travel Tips for Campers traveling on airlines (click here)

Directions to Kennebec's Maine Golf Academy and Maine Tennis Academy
Driving Directions - click here

20 minutes north of Augusta, Maine
70 minutes north of Portland, Maine and the airport at Portland, Maine
2 hours north of Portsmouth, NH
3 hours 15 minutes north of Boston
7 hours north of New York City

From the South: Come into Maine on Route 95 North. Traveling North on Interstate 95, take either the Maine Turnpike or 295 North as both funnel into 95 North. One hour north of Portland is Augusta Maine. In Augusta take Exit 112 B (Old Exit 31 B) Right (Rts 27, 8, & 11) towards Belgrade Lakes. After ten miles, route 27 goes straight and you turn right continuing on Route 8 & 11. Follow Routes 8 & 11 North (Right) towards Oakland. Go three miles. Stay on Route 11 ( Bear Right) when Rt 8 bears left in N. Belgrade. After 1 mile take Left onto Taylor Woods Road (your first Left). Kennebec's Maine Golf and Tennis Academy is 150 yards on your right! USE This Map

From the North: Traveling South on Interstate 95. In Waterville take Exit 127 (Old Exit 33), Exit off ramp Right towards Oakland. Follow signs through Oakland on Route 11 (5 minutes) then head South on Route 11 towards Belgrade, leaving Oakland. Go five miles and you will pass a beverage distribution plant on the left side of the road called Valley Distributors (10 minutes). One mile past Valley Distributors is our road called Taylor Woods Road. Turn Right on Taylor Woods Road. Kennebec's Maine Golf and Tennis Academy is 150 yards on your right! Turn on to our dirt road and park in the parking lot. See you soon!

"Your greatest competition is your former self"

Maine Golf Academy Van Transportation- Darien, CT to Camp to Darien, CT

We will chaperone and provide direct Van (or Bus Service with a minimum of 20) to AND from Kennebecs Maine Golf and Tennis Academy and the Darien Conneccticut - McDonald's parking lot located at the rest stop on route 95 near the border of Darien and New Canaan, CT.

June 20nd
Depart I-95 North Bound McDonalds Rest Stop, Darien, CT 9:00 AM
Lunch on Mass Pike Rest Stop - McDonalds 12:15 PM
Rest Stop in Maine at 3:00 PM
Arrive at Camp 4:00 PM

July 17th
Depart Belgrade, Maine at Maine Golf and Tennis Academy at 8:30 AM
Rest Stop in Portsmouth, NH, 10:45 AM
Lunch on Mass Pike McDonalds 12:45 PM
Arrive I-95 South Bound McDonalds Rest Stop, Darien, CT 4:00 PM

July 18th
Depart I-95 North Bound McDonalds Rest Stop, Darien, CT 9:00 AM
Lunch on Mass Pike Rest Stop - McDonalds 12:15 PM
Rest Stop in Maine at 3:00 PM
Arrive at Camp 4:00 PM

August 14th
Depart Belgrade, Maine at Maine Golf and Tennis Academy at 8:30 AM
Rest Stop in Portsmouth, NH, 10:45 AM
Lunch on Mass Pike McDonalds 12:45 PM
Arrive I-95 South Bound McDonalds Rest Stop, Darien, CT 4:00 PM

Other Dates can be arranged if there is a minimum of 6 passengers

Van Price $135 per person/one way limited space - by paid reservation only- campers only- payment in full by April 15th of the current camp year.- Payment is non refundable - No baggage will be transported by the Van There is a minimum requirement of 20 campers for the bus, if minimum is not reached we will use a camp Van and the price will be adjusted accordingly. If we have enough for a Bus, it is a commercial private 45 passenger bus with bathroom and electronic entertainment., driven by a licensed professional bus driver provided by the bus company.

The Maine Golf and Tennis Academy will provide a counselor chaperone on the bus/or van. The Maine Golf Academy will provide meals and snacks. There is limited space for baggage and only on the large 45 passenger bus only. There is no room for baggage on the van and all baggage must be sent in advance, to arive no later than the Friday before the campers day arrival for his or her particular session.

The vans will have no room for baggage. We require that all baggage be shipped ahead of time to arrive on the Friday before your camper will arrive.

You must give us a cell number to reach you during transportation should we arrive earlier or later than anticipated.

4. Who are Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy Campers?
We accept 120 boys and girls, beginners to advanced golf and/or tennis devotees from all over the world, who enjoy playing, laughing, and growing together; campers who seek the excitement and challenge of living cooperatively in a stimulating community. We, their parents, and they, value strong, positive peer relationships and build these through the challenge of living in rustic cabins with 8- 10 other campers from all different cultures, sacrificing the comforts of living in their own home with all the modern conveniences at their finger tips. They believe, as do we, they gain much for their efforts. These courageous young adventurers learn to covet this enclave and home away from home for the thrill of gaining the wonderful benefits of sharing their passions, challenges and living space with others. Most notably they are excited about devoting their weeks with us to learning and practicing one or both of their favorite sports in a traditional Maine summer camp environment.

Most MGA campers come from the Eastern Seaboard of the US: New England, Metro New York, and Metro DC, but we get campers from all over of the US: California, The Carolinas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Alabama. Our International campers come from Italy, Mexico, Spain, France, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Ireland, Scotland, Portugal, other Eastern and Western European countries, Kuwait, Venezuela, Brazil, Korea, China, Japan and Canada. Camp is truly an American international community, with 85% US campers and about 15% international campers. We offer English as a Second Language optional instruction to help international campers develop skills in conversational English and bond more strongly with their cabin mates.

Campers are from 25 different countries and 35 different states across the US

5. Is this going to be too advanced for my child?
We teach beginners through advanced, each within his or her own program. Click here to see explanation of different levels and description of Beginner - Intermediate and Advanced Golf Program.

Every Camper has a Camper Customized Curriculum and Specific
Levels of Instruction
(click here)

While we pride ourselves on offering the finest Professional PGA/LPGA Golf Instruction and USPTA Tennis Instruction that a Junior can receive, our staff is ready, willing, and able to make the beginner feel right at home. It is true that Advanced Golfers and Tennis Players can get up to 8 hours a day of instruction and play, however, the unique aspect of the Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy is that each camper can adjust the amount and the intensity of the golf or tennis program by opting for other activities offered each day.

The last thing we want to do is overwhelm our camper. Even though campers are offered highly sophisticated and technical training along with being video taped, analyzed, measured, adjusted and molded in every aspect of their game no matter
what level, the camper is still in charge of how much he or she can manage in any given day.

"Teach me as if I know nothing, because of all that I have forgotten in the last year"
-Jack Nicklaus to his coach

A Typical Day
Each camper will be given a
Customized Camper Curriculum

7:15 AM Wake up

7:45 AM - BREAKFAST - New Menu with***** ATKINS ***** FRIENDLY OPTIONS

8:30 AM Cleanup and Inspection
9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon Instruction Classes and Stations - Schedule of Rotation

12:15 - LUNCH

12:45 PM Rest Hour
1:30 PM Depart for Golf Courses or Choose Alternative Activities

1:45 PM - 2:50 PM Period 4
Campers choose amongst Golf, Tennis, Waterfront activities, Theater, Aerobics, Dance; On pre-scheduled days they go to their assigned Clinics or go to their Major Choice or Minor Choice Activity (A favorite activity that each camper chooses before the summer starts, that assures the camper that he or she gets to do that preferred acativity at least 3 times a week ( Major) or once or twice a week (Minor)

2:55 PM - 4:00 PM Period 5
Campers choose Golf, Tennis, Waterfront activities, Theater, Aerobics, Dance; or go to their assigned Clinics or go to their Major Choice or Minor Choice Activity *(A favorite activity that each camper chooses before the summer starts, that the camper wants to make sure that he or she gets to do at least 3 times a week ( Major) or twice a week (Minor)

4:00 PM SNACK - i.e. Fruit, Granola, Popcicles, Juice and similar healthy choices.

5:00 PM All Camp Swim
5:45 PM Wash up for Dinner

6:00 PM - DINNER

6:30 PM After dinner activities: Golf, Tennis, Maroon and Grey Competitions, Waterfront, basketball, Arts, Majors and Minors etc.
8:00 PM Wash up
8:15 PM Evening Programs
9:15 PM Juniors back to bunks and showers
9:45 PM Evening Snack
10:00 PM Seniors back to bunks and showers and Lights out for Juniors
10:45 PM Lights out for Seniors

The
Customized Camper Curriculum
and
Levels of Instruction
(click here)

* MAJORS AND MINORS:
Each camper will be sent a form in their Parents Information Packet, in the Spring, before camp starts, which will be a list of activities, from which, he or she is to indicate the two activities that he or she would like to be sure to get extra time or special time.

A Major activity will be scheduled three times a week assuring plenty of fun in their first choice alternative activity.

A Minor activity will be scheduled 1 to 2 times a week, assuring the second choice will not be missed while at camp. i.e. a camper might choose as a Waterskiing as a Major and Theater Games as a Minor. We will then schedule three times to waterski in the afternoon or evening time for waterskiing and two times during the afternoon or evening for Thearter.

The camper will be given their schedule on the first day of camp. Last minute changes will be accomodated based on feasibility and availability.

Major Choices include:
(Scheduled 3 times a week)

Golf ( Note: This choice as a Major is available for Seniors and Advanced Golfers only)
Tennis
Waterskiing
Aerobics/Dance
Sailing
Field Sports - Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee, Softball, Football, Basketball
Theater
Arts and Crafts
Video Production
Newsletter
Fitness Club

Minor Choices include
(Scheduled 1 to 2 times a week)

Golf
Tennis
Waterskiing
Aerobics/Dance
Ropes Course
Canoeing/Kayaking
Field Sports - Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee, Softball, Football, Basketball
Swimming
Arts and Crafts
Theater
Video Production
Newsletter
Nature Trips and Outodoor Adventure Trips
Sight Seeing in Maine
Camping out overnight
Fishing
Club Making
Fitness Club

After the camper submits his or her choices, the camp will make up a balanced Customized Camper Curriculm and schedule to include each week, clinics, course play, home and away competition, practice time, course play with course management instruction, waterfront, traditional camp activities and of course periods of free choice.Each designed to meet the individual campers needs, interests and abilities.To complement this schedule the Camper Customized Curriculum will be comprised additionally of each campers prescribed level for instruction ( Red, White, Blue, Black, Gold - See our Original Maine Golf Academy "WAYWO" Instruction Workbook that will be sent in the Spring to each campers home.)

6. Who owns Kennebec Camps Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy?
The Lavenson Family has owned and directed Kennebec Boys Camp Inc. d.b.a. The Maine Golf Academy since 1985 ! Joel is a Marriage and Family Therapist and Crista is a Social Worker. Joel's son Christopher is the fourth generation Lavenson to be involved with Kennebec Camps established 1907 and the Maine Golf Academy, started in 1997. His father, uncles and grandfather were all involved with Kennebec over the years as campers, counselors, waiters, and consultants.

Joel's family has been in camping for many generations and Joel's grandmother Caroline Lavenson owned a prestigious girls camp in Maine called Tripp Lake Camp for 40 years.

Joel developed a unique sports training technique called Video Sports Analysis, instant replay for athletes right on the field of play. He worked with sports psychologists and bio-mechanical specialists with the Olympic Development Committee. He was a Training Ambassador and guest lecturer to the US and USSR Olympic Track Team. He and his training techniques were engaged to be used with notable sports figures and teams such as: The Boston Celtics, The New England Patriots, The New England Teamen, professional boxers, skiers, tennis stars and golfers. Joel spent many years in Texas were he designed and managed the Las Colinas Sports Club and Golf Resort which was and is the home of the Byron Nelson Golf Classic and the Paine Webber Tennis Classic.

Joel has coached and trained teams and individual athletes to a high level of success, from elementary school age to professional level.

In addition to Joel's background as an innovator in the field of coaching and training, he simultaneously pursued his passion in Marriage and Family Therapy, where he had a private practice with the Answer Counseling Center, an impactful counseling and support center for families in Connecticut, specializing in IMAGO Relationship Counseling, EMDR and Family Constellation Therapy. Joel teaches Psychology at Albertus Magnus College in Connecticut.

Crista who has been teaching writing at Rollins College, to undergraduate and graduate level students, is also a dedicated artist and calligrapher. She loves teaching and when she became a support coordinator for the State of Florida she too simultaneously pursued love in social work. She currently teaches English, Rehtoric, Culture and Language at the University of Hartford and Saint Joseph's College for Women.

Crista, who has loved creating the Golf and Tennis Academy along with Joel, prides herself in knowing as much as she can about all of the campers and counselors and even before they arrive . Her winning smile and affable nature always make everyone comfortable and she stuns everyone with her memory of how much she remembers about each person.

Joel and Crista now reside in West Hartford, Connecticut where both run the camp full time and still pursue the hobby careers on the side, teaching, writing, training, and consulting.

Joel and Crista Lavenson, atop Mt. Battie overlooking Camden Harbor.

Son and daughter: Christopher Conway Lavenson with Casey, and Hanna Blair Lavenson

They are the 4th Generation of Lavenson's to be involved with Kennebec Camps now the Maine Golf Academy

7. Who are our counselors?
Men and women in college or finished college, who choose to focus their summer on helping children to realize their potential. They are teachers, guidance counselors, childcare professionals, students, caring and skilled individuals with camp-related backgrounds. These staff live, eat, bunk with, guide, counsel, listen to, care for, and recreate the campers when they are not in either the Golf or Tennis Program. Because we run camp as a full time, year round venture, we spend most of our time recruiting and interviewing new candidates to become part of our team of wonderful faculty and staff.

Our faculty and staff are our greatest asset!

The Instructors and and Pros
The Management Team assists with the day-to-day running of the camp. Mature, experienced Division Heads supervise each of the living units. Mature, experienced Professionals who are Department Heads supervise each of the major areas, Golf, Tennis, Waterfront and Program Activities. We have 15 Golf Teaching Staff: PGA and LPGA Professionals, Coaches, Instructors, Golf Professionals and college players. In Tennis we have 4 Teaching Staff headed by our DAVIS CUP Coach and Wimbledon player coach Andre Mas the USPTA Professional and 3 assistant coaches.

8. Where do Counselors come from?
Most come from all across the US, as well as some from international points: Australia, Europe, Asia, South America, and Central America. We hire and train counselors from Colleges and Universities around the world

9. What's the food like?

New Menu with
***** ATKINS *****
FRIENDLY OPTIONS

Our Chefs prides themselves on exciting the campers every meal with carefully balanced and kid-friendly scrumptious meals to which he puts his personal touch and creativity. He is always concerned that every child goes away satisfied. Most special diets or food allergies will be accommodated.

The Maine Golf Academy uses the served family style and buffet style: you select what you like to eat and there are always options. Entrees include vegetarian options at every meal with an extensive salad bar offered at every lunch and dinner. Maine Golf Academy maintains a bottomless fruit bowl all day long: Morning snack is available after first period ( 10:30 AM), an afternoon snack (at 3:30 PM) Sandwich ingredients and cereal are always available An evening snack, such as cookies and milk, brownies, or fruit is offered before bedtime.

10. Where do I swim?

This quintessential summer camp scene is our own "little heaven" on Lake Salmon

In beautiful, crystal clear Lake Salmon. Because Lake Salmon is relatively shallow, only 50 feet deep, it warms quickly in the spring and retains warmth through our season. Lake Salmon is 3.5 miles long, providing excellent facilities for boating, skiing, and swimming activities. Lake Salmon connects to McGraw Pond another lake which is 4 miles long.

Ahhh... LIFE IS GOOD!

11. Where will I live?
In a comfortable rustic cabin with 8 - 10 other campers of your age and grade. Your cabin has electricity, toilets, sinks, and wrap around screens to insure plenty of cool air flow during the day and side flaps to keep in the warmth on chilly nights.

Cozy and tidy little cabins are your child's home on Green #1

12. How are Junior Camp ages 8-12 and Senior Camp (ages 13-17) different?
The Juniors experience focuses primarily on integrating a new camper to our program. The meals and evening activities are generally segregated by age group. This experience provides an excellent introduction to all aspects of camp life, without the age factor being intimidating to the younger camper. The Junior Camp program is unique in its small size and very close camper-counselor contact.

Senior campers enjoy greater freedom of choices in daily and evening programs and are given the privilege of exercising more ownership in shaping their activities of golf, tennis, performing arts, sports, outings, and waterfront.

13. Is the camp orientated toward competition or individual skill development?
The Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy emphasizes participation and individual achievement over competition. Any camper who wishes to be a part of our golf, tennis or other sports inter-camp team, makes the team, every camper who tries out for the play is cast: all campers are encouraged to participate in the talent shows, music recitals, and other performances offered during evening activities.

We maintain: "Your greatest competition is your former self" and as such we challenge you to improve yourself to your utmost ability and satisfaction.

The Gallary looks on, as a camper chips on, to finish his match at our Maine Golf Academy Tournament

Tournaments and competitions are played here at our own facility once a week. They are arranged to teach more how to participate nobly rather than to participate triumphantly.

14. Does camp require a uniform?
Yes. There is a minimal camp uniform, required: MGA shirts, MGA windbreaker and a MGA hat, which must be purchased from our official clothing provider; a suggested equipment list is provided for your convenience. We will send you a catalog or you can go on line to see the choices. Recommended items to be purchased can be found on the back of the enrollment form or in the catalog. Suggested types and quantities of clothing should be followed. Campers are required to wear the golf or tennis uniform whenever participating in the sport and whenever they leave camp. Six golf or tennis shirts are required to participate in either program as well as navy blue shorts and the appropriate foot wear. Boys and girls may not wear earings, have body piercings, wear tongue rings, or have any markings on the skin. Girls may wear small, inexpensive and tasteful earings, no more than two per ear. The general accepted hair styles for both boys and girls must be groomed in a way that represent the golf or tennis spirit of etiquette and dress code.

Campers must wear Navy Blue shorts or long pants as part of the uniform. Khaki will be permitted on hot days

The Cloz Company

The Pro Shop - Our on line clothing catalog (click here) from the CLOZ Company in Chicago. Makes it easy ordering on line or by phone at 1 800 876 2267 or outside the US call 773247 8879(With any problems use extension 116 and ask for Linda who will solve any concerns you have)


Uniform purchase and delivery when ordering after May 1st.
(If you wish to not use the Cloz Company Catalog)

With enough notice, we will be glad to purchase on your behalf and have the required logo uniform clothes waiting for your child upon arrival. We can then exchange any wrong sizes right here at camp and put your child's name with a laundry marking pen.

For Golf: The logoed uniform, which is 6 Golf white collared shirts, 1 windbreaker, and 1 hat. The costis a total of $210.

For Tennis: We provide 2 collared shirts 6 Tee shirts, windbreaker and hat for $210.

For Serve and Turf ( Combination golf and tennis instruction): The cost is $275 for the combination of uniforms.

The rest of the clothes, (not logo required) pants, shorts, raingear, personal clothes, underwear, etc are still up to you to purchase and provide and we do not provide them. Please confirm to us, the sizes, the amount, and the payment, in writing; by email, fax or by letter, and we will then provide your uniform. We will need enough time to order the clothes and have them arrive prior to your child's arrival. Call the office to make sure about the lead time needed.

15. How many campers sleep in a bunk, and what is the camper to counselor ratio?
Our bunks range in sizes from 7 to 10 campers, and most cabins have two counselors. Our overall camper to counselor ratio is 3 to 1.

16. How does the co-ed aspect of camp work.
Girls live in their own cabins with female counselors, in an area of the circle of cabins designated for girls only, and the boys have their own area of the circle of cabins. Each has their own shower house. Neither are permitted to visit each other in their cabins. All the scheduled activities, which are supervised 24 hours a day, are the appropriate place and time for socializing. Otherwise boys and girls eat together, take instruction together and are engaged in all activities based on interest and ability.

Most coed camps report a surprisingly smooth and easy integration of boys and girls in the instruction and play for their respective sports activities. We find the same is true here at the Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy. Campers are all very respectful of our strict rules of etiquette both on and off the field of play.

17. Will I have any choices?
Your day is devoted to Golf or Tennis Instruction in the mornings and in the afternoon and evenings it is filled with choices: your individual schedule is based entirely on YOUR choices! You chose exactly what YOU want to do each week. You make a daily choice each afternoon of the weekday. (Your schedule will most likely be different from those of your cabin mates.)

For some this is the place they learned to water-ski!

18. Are there any special events?
Special events are usually the core of each evening's activities: games shows, trivia contests, talent night, carnival, casino, movies, etc. Trips include: Whitewater rafting, Mountain Climbing, Camping Trips, Rock Climbing, Whale Watching, Tournaments, Parent/ child Tournaments on the Saturday that your child leaves.

A favorite activity is the climbing of Mt. Battie, overlooking Camden, and then a Lobster Feast on the ocean!

• What to do for homesick campers:
  
  1. Acknowledge the feeling:
  "It's scary to wake up in a new place." "I feel badly that you feel like this." "It's not easy being away from home."
  
  2. Share your feelings:
  "I know how you feel, when I went to college for the first time I was homesick too!"
  
  3. Clarify the real issue:
  "What is it that bothers you the most?" (If scared of the dark) "Do you think a flashlight would help you?" "Have you tried to make friends?"
  
  4. Reassure them:
  "I think you're a neat kid." "I know you can get through this." "I like you already and I've only just met you." "You and I are going to be special friends."
  
  5. Predict: "Won't it be great when you get through this." "You will be so proud of yourself.

20. Can my parents call me?
NO phone calls for campers are accepted from parents. Campers may make appointments to call parents after their first week and then only once a week. It is important for campers to adjust themselves to this new lifestyle of summer camp and phone calls are often times disruptive and can even create an exaggerated feeling of homesickness on the part of the child. Of course, at Camp Parents may call us at the camp office (1 800 465 3226) at any time to inquire about their child with anecdotal reports and up-to-date information on each camper's adjustment to camp

21. What happens if I am sick or injured? Or What happens if I need my regular medications?
A Registered Nurse staffs the Health Center 24 hours each day to help with colds, scrapes, and other typical camp injuries and sicknesses. Many staff members are certified in First Aid and CPR to care for emergencies. Our on call Pediatrician lives 1 mile away and she has privileges at the local hospital which is 12 minutes away. The nurse contacts the family as soon as an accurate medical assessment is available on any serious incidents.

The worry is taken out of sending Meds to the camp nurse to be dispensed to your child as prescribed

Camp Meds sends your childs medication to us in pre-packaged packets marked for your child. Safe, easy and accurate.

22. E MAIL - Parents to Campers Only.

This is restricted to the use of verified camp parents only *

There is a wonderful service that provides parent with our own private Maine Golf and Tennis Academy email address, to which they can send their camper an email. After the first Thursday of their stay, campers can receive emails and each day therafter. As always, campers can write letters home everyday, but they can't send emails, as we have decided to do without computers for the campers. This insures that campers will not have the lose of fun program time dealing with the vagaries of the email system.

The company that provides this service for a small fee is called Bunk1 , and they have arranged for you to send your emails to their service and sort them by bunk.

In addition they will host our photos of the day and newsletter of the week for you to see, like a fly on the wall, your child and the fun activities that he or she has been doing.

They will make available copies of the photos you like.

* Password protection given by Bunk 1 to authorized camp parents as identified by the Maine Golf Academy only.

23. What's the deadline to apply?
The Maine Golf Academy and Tennis Academy does not have an application deadline We do not believe in creating artificial pressure for your family. However, some age groups and sessions fill very early; so please call to ensure room for your campers.

24. Why did we choose to change Kennebec Boys Camp, a traditional boys camp, a legend in the camp world with a general theme, into this unique hybrid of a High Tech Golf and Tennis School at a Summer Camp?

It has been increasingly apparent to us, as parents, that there are fewer and fewer role models that are the kind of people we would choose to put in front of our own kids, let alone in front of your children.

The world needs the kind of heroes that we are proud to have our children emulate. Sports in general used to do just that .It attracted, and was attractive to, those who held values high. Nowadays, it is not so easy to find the kind of examples we can be confident are going to afford our children the nutritious upbringing we are all so interested in providing for our families. Most sports nowaday seem to tolerate and some even encourage a blatant sense of disrespect of person, place, and thing.

Because we believe Golf is a world that still carrys a wholesome code of ethics and etiquette. Further, the kind that the world is sorely in need of demonstrating to its young. It is one of the last bastions of decency, fair play, honesty and integrity in sports, which we all know can help mold the values of our future generations. It gives us an oppotunity to help those parents who want to insure that their child is surrounded by role models, that are like the kind they had when they were growing up. The old fashioned values of manners, kindness, sacrifice, persistence, honesty and fair play.

The following article we found says it better than we could:

"Ever wonder why golf is growing in popularity while other sports such as the NBA, baseball, and football are floundering?

Ever wonder why people who don't even play golf go to tournaments or watch it on TV? These truisms may shed light on reasons why.

Golf is an honorable game, with the overwhelming majority of players being honorable people who don't need referees.

Golfers don't have some of their players in jail every week. Golfers don't scratch their privates on the golf course. Golfers don't kick dirt on, or throw bottles at, other people. Professional golfers are compensated in direct proportion to how well they play.

Golfers pay their own way to travel between tournaments. A few even fly on their own aircraft that they have actually paid for. Golfers don't get per diem and two seats on a charter flight when they travel between tournaments. Golfers don't threaten to go on strike. Golfers don't hold out for more money, or demand new contracts, because of another player's deal.

Professional Golfers don't demand that the taxpayers pay for the courses on which they play. When golfers make a mistake, nobody is there to cover for them or back them up. The PGA Tour raises more money for charity in one year than the National Football League does in two.

You can watch the best golfers in the world up close, at any tournament, including the majors, all day, every day for $25 or $30. The cost for a seat in the nosebleed section at the Super Bowl will cost around $300 or more. You can bring a picnic lunch to the tournament golf course, watch the best in the world and not spend a small fortune on food and drink. Try that at one of the taxpayer funded baseball or football stadiums.

I brought a Coke in to Dodger Stadium last year, and an usher came to my seat and told me I had to dispose of it, or I would not be allowed to stay in the stadium. In golf you cannot fail 70% of the time and make $9 million a season, like the best baseball hitters (.300 batting average) do. Golf doesn't change its rules to attract fans. Golfers have to adapt to an entirely new playing area each week.

Golfers keep their clothes on while they are being interviewed.
Golf doesn't have free agency. They don't need one.

In their prime, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Lee Trevino, Greg Norman, and other stars, would shake your hand and say they were happy to meet you. In his prime Jose Canseco wore T-shirts that read, Leave Me Alone.

You can hear birds chirping on the golf course during a tournament. At a golf tournament, (unlike at taxpayer funded sports stadiums and arenas) you won't ever hear a steady stream of four letter words and nasty name calling while you're hoping that no one spills beer on you.

Tiger Woods can hit a golf ball three times as far as Bonds can hit a baseball."

My wife and I want my our son and daughter exposed to sports and even life, through these mores, values and time honored behaviors, demonstrated by honorable people. And that is who we attract, and who is attracted to our camp now.The kind of staff, faculty and families that cherish this decent way of living ones iife. We thought you might like it too.!

25. Where can I find information on hotels and motels in the area ?
There are some wonderful, fun, interesting areas, loaded with great sights and activities nearby.
Waterville is 8 miles North and Augusta is 14 miles South. Portland is 60 miles South and Camden and the Coast of Maine is 1 hour and 15 minutes East. Rangley and Sugarloaf are 1 hour and 10 minutes West. The links below will allow you to find any type of accommodation you wish. Please call and ask:

26. The CIT Program - Counselor in Training

CIT's 15 - 17
(Counselors in Training) 4 Weeks only
By Invitation Only - Limited Space -
15 year olds must have attened the MGA previously

A CIT is part camper and part counselors in training.

Those who are selected for their willingness to participate in all the camper activities in an enthusiastic, reverent and helpful way, and who also have the maturity and sense of reponsibility learn to guide young campers by example, and to help out the counselors will be our team of young CIT's. They will not miss any of the benefits of instruction or fun activities or trips and will because of the added responsibility will be given many privileges and benefits. They will have all the benfits of being a camper and special privileges reserved just for CITs. Along with these benefits and raised expectations come advanced responsibilities and jobs. Since they are a Counselor-in-Training, they will be required to perform many similar tasks that we ask our counselors to perform. These include helping look after younger campers during meals, golf/tennis, and in evening program, helping set up and take down activities, helping take kids to showers at night, being in charge of ice cream parties for the campers, helping to get kids involved in all activities, learning to lead morning clean-up inspection, etc. Always under the supervision of adults and older counselors. There will be a special team of staff assigne to guide the CIT's.

CIT's get paid $50 per week and are given a 25% discount on tuition.

Typical CIT Schedule

Daily Training and meetings to coordinate CIT roles while at camp, beginning with welcoming arriving families and helping campers adjust, giving tours through helping campers prepare to go home and depart.

One day a week a special supervised CIT activity will be scheduled to be their "time off " from the responsibilities of being a CIT. The place and activity will vary.

1st Sunday:
Orientation about camp life and general assignments for the coming weeks. Basic outline of what is expected as well as a question and answer portion.

1st Wednesday:
First session of Counselor Orientation (General guidelines and MGTA Polices and procedures). Speech from college students about college life and application process. Also, what goes into playing college golf and tennis and maintaining the balance of athletics and school. Question and answer segment.

2nd Wednesday:
Second session of Counselor Orientation (How to deal with problem campers and identifying personality types). Speech from a college coach about what it takes to make it on a college golf and tennis team, advice on how to market yourself, and what college coaches look for in players. Question and answer segment.

3rd Sunday:
Help with new camper tours to parents, camper orientation and evaluations.

3rd Wednesday:
Third session of Counselor Orientation (Do’s and Don’ts of being a camp counselor). College students talk about how to deal with college life and academics. Also, what to expect from professors and other students in college. Question and answer

4th Wednesday:
Fourth session of Counselor Orientation (Frequently Asked Questions about Camp and MGA. Also, speech from the director about camp and future). Stories from international college students about what it is like to be a student in America. Question and answer.

DAVID'S TRAVEL a Carlson-Wagonlit Travel Agency
104 Park Road
West Hartford, CT 06119
Telephone:
1 800 542 2791
USA 860-233-1218
860-233-4209-fax
Email: dtravel@sprynet.com

WHERE TO STAY AND PLAY
Area Lodging and Golf Courses

Camps & Cottages / Belgrade Reservation Center (Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-2525

Village Inn (Belgrade Lakes) 888-581-1154

Talbot's Bed & Breakfast(Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-2868

Wings Hill Inn (Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-2400

Belgrade Lakes House(Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-2786

Yeaton Farm Inn (Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-3841

Long Pond Bed & Breakfast(Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-9220

The Senator Inn & Spa (Augusta) 207-622-5804

Comfort Inn(Augusta) 207-623-1000 hotelsaug@aol.com

The Pressey House (Oakland) 207-465-3500

The Holiday Inn (Waterville) 207-873-0111

The Hampton Inn (Waterville) 207 873 0400

The Comfort Inn and SuitesMotel (Waterville) 207-667 1345

Partridge Cottage & Rooms(Belgrade Lakes) 207-495-3864

The Harraseeket Inn (Freeport) 1 207 865 9377

The Samoset Hotel ( Rockland/Camden) 1 207 594 1431

Try these two great sites for this: Maine Office of Tourism or The Official Community Website of Belgrade, Maine.

When searching on the Maine Office of Tourism web site, it is best to look in the area designated as the Portland Area, or in the section denoted as the Kennebec and Moosehead River areas, to find accommodations closest to the Maine Golf Academy in Belgrade, Maine.

The Summer That Lasts a Lifetime