In the concrete jungle of New York, where skyscrapers scrape the cerulean sky, taxis buzz like honeybees and hot dogs sizzle on every corner, there exists an extraordinary group of kids. They are not your average dodgeball players or hopscotch hoppers. No, these kids are the swashbuckling, fearless fencers of NY! They assemble in gyms and rec centers across the state, clad in shiny suits of white armor, masks gleaming, swords twirling. These aren't ordinary swords, but blunted foils and épées, their tips shimmering with the thrill of the duel. The leader of this band of merriment is none other than Sir Prickle Pants, a porcupine with a peculiar passion for fencing. Don’t let his prickles fool you, he's as cuddly as a teddy bear. Some say it was the itchiness of the fencing suit that led him to pick up the sport, but we know he just loves the thrill of the contest. With his belly full of pizza and his heart full of laughter, Sir Prickle Pants leads his team with the poise of a knight and the humor of a circus clown. With a hearty "En Garde!", a match begins, the air crackles with anticipation. The fencers prance and parry, their movements as graceful as ballet dancers, their strikes as swift as a swooping falcon. The crowd cheers, hot dogs are momentarily forgotten and even the taxis seem to slow, as if the city itself is holding its breath, caught up in the thrill of the duel. In New York, fencing isn't just a sport; it's a spectacle, a dance, a celebration of bravery and silliness. And every kid who steps onto the piste, led by the indomitable Sir Prickle Pants, becomes a part of this grand tradition.
Read moremore fencing programs near Commack, NY
Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
We believe that Kindness, Confidence and Respect are essential ingredients for successful learning and social engagement. Our campers and staff are encouraged to promote these values on a daily basis through team building activities, catching campers "doing something good" and discussions about what it means to be kind, confident and respectful. Woodmont Camp provides an environment in which campers can learn to become better people and can gain the skills necessary for success in life. Our program offers a safe and supportive environment in which campers can develop the confidence to take on challenges and respect themselves and others.