Camps - Squash and Beyond
Transcription
Camps - Squash and Beyond
Summer Camps at Williams College Education Programs at Williams College 14 training sessions: June 15-August 22 Squash and Writing Programs Squash and College Essay Squash and SAT program Squash and Community Service Squash Tours Tour of Italy Squash and hiking in Switzerland Tour of France Tour of Northwest Pacific Language Programs Squash and French: South of France Squash and Spanish: Barcelona Squash and Spanish: Madrid Since 2003 Camps | Tours | Education | Language Camps | Tours | Education | Language squashandbeyond.com squashandbeyond.com CAMPS LANGUAGES Education 2 TOURS Outdoor activities COMMUNITY SERVICE Welcome Dear Squash Players and Parents, I am pleased to introduce you to the 2014 Squash and Beyond Summer Programs. Since 2003, Squash and Beyond has been the leading summer squash program in the U.S. Our instructors— some of the best squash coaches and professional players in the world—have helped thousands of young players take their squash game to the next level and enjoy a summer experience they will never forget. The 2014 session of Squash and Beyond includes: 14 squash sessions at Williams College, including Squash and SAT preparation Squash and Expository Writing Squash and College Essay (offered twice) Squash and Community Service F our international tours, providing young players with broadening cultural experiences in Italy, Switzerland, France and the Pacific North West. n S quash and Language Immersion programs this summer in Barcelona, Madrid, and the French Riviera. n n n n n n Despite our growth over the years, we have never changed our core values or compromised our high standards. Our programs give young squash players the opportunity to learn and practice their game in a fun and safe environment with the most knowledgeable squash coaches anywhere. The key to our continued success—the reason players come back year after year—is balance: our squash training is professional and intense, but we make sure campers enjoy their time off court participating in fun and safe outdoor activities. As a father as well as a coach, I know that even as parents encourage their children to enjoy new and challenging experiences like Squash and Beyond Camps, safety is always a concern. There is no safer and more pleasant place to host a summer camp than Williams College. As in past years, I personally plan and oversee all our programs at Williams to ensure that our campers have the safest experience possible as well as a great time. All U.S. and overseas programs are closely supervised by the staff day and night and we hold our campers and students to a high standard of individual responsibility and mutual respect. Whether you are a returning camper or a new one, I encourage you to attend one of our programs this summer; I am certain you will enjoy your experience. Sincerely, Zafi Levy, Camp Director 1 “ The Squash and Beyond Camp was an amazing and very beneficial experience for my son. My son improved his game so much and the difference between his skills and the level of play from beginning of camp to the end was incredible and very significant. The coaching staff is excellent with college coaches from schools with top squash programs. And Zafi is amazing with these high school athletes as far as his teaching and the way he connects with the players. My son is playing squash in college this year and both he and I attribute the success he is having to the training he received at the Squash and Beyond Camp. — Parent of Camper, Summer 2013 ” Squash Camps at Williams College 14 training sessions, June 15-August 22 “ The Williams Squash Camp was a home run! The coaching staff has high credentials and spends a lot of time with the players. Fun outdoor activities are planned each day and they vary the dinner reservations on Spring Street to keep things exciting. Hard to beat Williamstown in beauty and safety. My sons keep in touch with other campers from around the country and want to go for two weeks next year. ” — P arent of two campers, Summer 2013 “ Squash and Beyond delivered an exceptional experience both on and off the court. On the court, my son became a stronger player, due to the top-notch instruction imparted by Zafi’s coaching staff. Off the court, the evening excursions allowed my son to connect with his fellow campers, while exploring the Berkshires. ” — Parent of camper, Summer 2013 Camps | Tours | Education | Language To keep young players motivated and energized, we balance intensive squash training with after-practice fun. A mix of group activities offers variety, outdoor exercise, and opportunities for campers to interact socially. By helping each group to bond, our recreational programs also contribute to a rich and memorable camping experience. We team with Crab Apple Whitewater to provide our campers with the experience of kayaking down the Deerfield River—a great way to see the Berkshires and to spend a warm summer day outside and active. The kayaks are easy to paddle and very stable, allowing campers to get a taste of whitewater kayaking with minimal risk. Single kayaks are great for those 12 years old and over who want the freedom to challenge the river on their own, while bigger boats allow younger campers to enjoy the river with an adult close by. We take campers to Bosquet Water Park in the Berkshires to enjoy an afternoon of swimming, miniature golf and go-carting. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, located within a 20 minute drive from the Williams College campus, is the top adventure park in New England. The highlight of the park is the Mountain Coaster, first of its kind on the East Coast. Popular in Europe, the Coaster is thousands of feet of twisting, turning fun through the woods. You control your speed so you may take a leisurely ride or get your thrills at speeds up to 23 mph. Other highlights of our after-practice programs include an evening soccer tournament, and movie night. Time and again, our campers tell us they have never experienced better squash training than at Squash and Beyond. Our coaches are among the best in the world, and they have a passion for teaching. Our coaching takes place one-on-one or in small groups, and includes fitness training as well as on-court input on mechanics and strategy. A hallmark of our squash training is the personal interest our coaches take in the development of each player. It is that personal connection—the unique relationship that grows between coach and player—that inspires players to push through to the next level. Training at Squash and Beyond will not only improve your game; it will lay the foundation for sustained progress after your time with us. S&B Camps offer: n TOP INTERNATIONAL COACHES n TECHNIQUE AND TACTICS n DAILY FITNESS WORKOUTS n DAILY MATCH PLAY n 4:1 PLAYER-TO-COACH RATIO n 2:1 PLAYER-TO-COURT RATIO n VIDEO ANALYSIS n INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION n IMPROVE YOUR LEVEL OF PLAY Important Information Campers at Squash and Beyond at Williams College train with some of the best squash coaches in the world, live on campus, and take part in an exciting after-practice program of outdoor recreation and educational activities. Williams College Squash and Beyond Camps is located at Williams, a private liberal arts college on a 450-acre campus in Williamstown, a small college town nestled amid the scenic Berkshire Hills in the rural northwest corner of Massachusetts. Established in 1793, Williams is one of the oldest academic institutions in the United States. The College’s 12-court Simon Squash Center, where campers train, is one of the finest college squash facilities in the country. As part of Squash and Beyond’s after-practice program, campers swim in the College’s Olympic-size swimming pool, play soccer and other sports on the College’s playing fields, and hike in Hopkins Forest, a 2,600-acre reserve managed by the Williams College Center for Environmental Studies. Squash Training Our head coaches are internationally recognized, passionate about teaching young players, and come from all over the world—Australia, England, France, Italy, Switzerland, and elsewhere—specifically to teach at Squash and Beyond. The assistant coaches are all experienced club coaches, or professional players. Each session is coached by three top international coaches as well as a support staff of two assistant coaches, three counselors who are college varsity players, and a fitness coach. Campers at Williams spend five hours each day, on and off the court, training to improve their game. Instruction takes place in the morning, competitive play in the afternoon, culminating in a tournament at the end of the week. Squash and Beyond at Williams admits a maximum of 40 players per weekly session. Players are divided into four groups of ten, which rotate through four stations, spending 45 minutes in each. While one group works on fitness and 4 another group does video analysis off court, two groups receive on-court instruction, ensuring a 2:1 ratio of players per court, and a small, 4:1 ratio of players to coaches. Some of the off-court presentations we include in our program are lectures and workshops on officiating, nutrition, proper training methods for high school players and video analysis techniques for the elite player. Campers are closely supervised by coaches and counselors throughout the week. Squash and Beyond Camps is fully insured and has a full-time athletic trainer on staff. After-Practice Activities One of the best-loved features of Squash and Beyond Camps is the program of recreational activities following daily squash training. Each day from 12 to 2 pm, campers may swim in the Williams College Olympic-sized pool or relax with friends. Each evening at 6pm, a private bus transports campers to a different supervised evening activity, which may include movies, soccer, or a bike trip. One afternoon in each session, campers also take a guided kayak trip on the Deerfield River and on another afternoon, a trip to an Adventure Mountain Park. Educational Programs One of the Camps’ week-long sessions incorporates an education program taught by professional teachers which includes an SAT/ math preparation class, and an SAT/Critical Reading workshop. This Summer we will offer one squash and writing session and two squash and college essay sessions. Living on Campus Campers are housed in private rooms (or may request to share a double room) in a Williams student dormitory designated for the exclusive use of Squash and Beyond Camps. The dormitory—containing a kitchen, TV room, library and laundry room—is only a few minutes’ walk from the squash courts, which are in the heart of the Williams campus and the center of town. Three counselors and one assistant coach sleep at the dorm and are available to assist the campers at all times. During the week-long camp, Williams College Dining Services provides breakfast and lunch to all campers and staff. For dinner, each night counselors take campers out as a group to dine in local restaurants. Our counselors are all college varsity players, many of whom began their squash training at Squash and Beyond Camps, and all of whom meet our high standards for excellence of character as well as of squash skills. Important Information To apply for a place in one of our sessions, complete the online registration form for Camps at Williams on our website, www. squashandbeyond.com. To check on session availability, or if you have any other questions, please call Zafi Levy at 413.597.4627 or 413.884.2629. Many of our sessions fill by early April. Payments and Refunds The fee for one session is $1,580, and includes room and board and transportation to evening activities. Once you have registered online, a deposit of $400 per session is due upon your receipt of our confirmation email. The balance of $1,180 per session is due April 1. For registrations received after April 1, full payment is due upon receipt of our confirmation email. All checks should be made out to “Squash and Beyond” and mailed to Zafi Levy, Williams College, 22 Spring Street, Williamstown, MA 01267. We cannot accept credit cards. All cancellations prior to April 1st will be fully reimbursed. From April 1st to May 1st, all funds will be reimbursed, minus the $400 deposit. After May 1st, there are no refunds unless a new camper takes the cancelled spot, in which case, the remaining balance of $1,180 will be reimbursed. “ Our two boys having trekked from Hong Kong all the way to Williams, had an unforgettable experience at Coach Levy’s camp. The coaches and staff could not have been more welcoming and made them feel very much at home. Between the incredible small group coaching, mentoring from the world class players, and fun outside activities, they are eager to come back for another summer in 2014. I absolutely recommend the Williams Squash Camp for young players looking to improve their game and have a blast. — P arent of two international Campers, Summer 2013 ” $10 for movie night), and spending money, are not included in the fee. We recommend that campers bring $150 for evening activity costs and spending money. If a camper attends two consecutive sessions, there is an additional cost of $165 for a weekend stay between sessions (room and board for two days). Expectations and Rules Squash and Beyond campers are expected to be positive, enthusiastic, and respectful of one another and of all coaches and counselors. Our campers understand that smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs that are not medically prescribed are all absolutely prohibited. Communications Campers may bring cell phones, iPods, laptops or other communication devices with them to camp. Parents should not hesitate to call Zafi Levy (413.597.4627 or 413.884.2629) with any concerns. Additional Costs Transportation to Williamstown, costs for evening activities ($35 for kayaking, $30 for waterpark, $25 for Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, 5 6 Super Elite Advanced Elite Elite College Essay 1&11 Designed for experienced players with a minimum national ranking of 100, or for members of high school varsity teams. Super Elite sessions are physically demanding and highly competitive. Restricted to players 14 or older. Dates Coaches Super Elite 1 June 15-20 (Session 1)Dave Pearson, Danny Masaro Super Elite 2 June 22-27 (Session 2) Super Elite 3 June 29-July 4 (Session 3) Neil Guirey, Chris Simpson Super Elite 4 Aug. 10-15 (Session 11) Peter Barker, Phil Barker Super Elite 5 Aug. 17-22 (Session 13) Peter Barker, Phil Barker Designed for advanced squash players with a national ranking of 150 or higher as well as members of high school junior varsity teams, Advanced Elite sessions are physically demanding and highly competitive. Restricted to players 14 or older. Advanced Elite 4 July 6-11 (Session 4) Neil Guirey, Chris Simpson Intended for players who want to improve their game and move up to the next level. Intense and demanding, Elite Sessions focus on improving players’ techniques, movement and understanding of game tactics. For players 14 and younger, and members of the JV and thirds programs. Elite 1 July 13-18 (Session 6) Alex Strait, Fabio Cechin Elite 2 July 20-25 (Session 7) Simba Muhwati, Craig Thorpe-Clark Elite 3 July 27-Aug 1 (Session 8) Dave Pearson, Joey Barrington See page 18 for program description Writing July 6-11 (Session 5)Chuck Patak See page 19 for program description Essay I Aug. 3-8 (Session 10) Chuck Patak Essay II Aug. 17-22 (Session 14) Jim Moore Aug. 3-8 (Session 9)Dave Pearson, Joey Barrington See page 20 for program description SAT Community Service Education Programs Writing Summer Camps at Williams Division See page 21 for program description Dave Pearson, Danny Masaro Daily schedule: SAT class: 8-10am, morning squash session 10:30am1:30pm, afternoon squash session 2:30-4:30pm. Evening activities are the same as in other sessions. Besides the addition of the SAT course, the only difference between this session and our regular sessions is that campers receive somewhat shorter lunch and dinner breaks and are assigned one hour of SAT homework each night, which they must complete during their free time in the dorm. All costs associated with the SAT preparation course are paid for by Squash and Beyond. Aug. 10-15 (Session 12) Craig Thorpe-Clark, Peter Barker, Phil Barker Zafi Levy is a 2001 graduate of Williams College, head coach of both men’s and women’s teams at Williams College 2003-2013. Founder and director of Squash and Beyond Camps. Dave Pearson has been the England National Squash coach from 1995 to 2010. He is the personal coach for World #1 Nick Matthew, World #6 Jenny Duncalf and World #14 Alister Walker, and World #22 Chris Simpson. Nick Matthew is World #1, a three-time world champion, and England’s top ranked player. In October 2010, he made history by winning the individual and doubles gold medals at the Commonwealth Games. Phil Barker has been head squash professional at Greenwich Country Club since 2008. Prior to that, he played professionally on the PSA Tour for four years, reaching the Top 40 in the world. Craig Thorpe-Clark is one of the most experienced squash coaches in the US. A former head squash coach at the University of Pennsylvania (1999-2010) and Vassar College (1994-1998). Served as the head coach of the U.S. national team for two world championships and the Pan American Games. As World #6 and England #3, Peter Barker’s steady progress on the PSA Tour since going full-time in 2002 has led to a total of 13 Tour titles from 18 final appearances. Neil Guirey is the head coach at Abbeydale squash club in Sheffield, England. Former coach at Chapel Allerton in Leeds, Neil is a Level 3 qualified coach. Neil works with World Champion Nick Matthew, as well as European Champions Ashley Davies and Carrie Ramsey. Joey Barrington is a professional squash player from England. He is the son of the legendary squash player Jonah Barrington and front man of psasquashtv.com. Joey, a graduate of Birmingham University, turned pro in 2002 and reached his highest world ranking of 24 in January 2007. Danny Massaro has been a squash coach for 15 years, coaching most ages and most levels. He’s been a lecturer for 15 years in sports coaching and performance and currently works at University of Central Lancashire. He offers sport psychology support for many performers across a wide range of sports. His wife is Laura Massaro (world #2 WSA player). Jonathon Kemp is the winner of 18 PSA tournaments. He has achieved a highest World Ranking of 20 on the PSA tour and was a member of the English National Team. Greg McArthur is a former Scottish Junior Champion and Scottish National Team member. He is currently the assistant squash professional at the Roundhill Country Club in Greenwich, Connecticut. Greg is an active member on the ISD tour and one of the top doubles players in the nation. Adam Walker is one of the most experienced squash coaches in the US. Adam is the head squash coach at Eastern Athletic Club in New York City. Adam is ranked 7th in the US Nationals 40+ Division, has been a US Nationals 5.5 Finalist for 3 straight years, and has coached 4 US Junior Champions. Alex Stait, former world top 50 on the professional tour, currently serves as the head coach at Auges Irwin School in PA. Prior to arriving in the US, Alex served as the head coach of the Bowdoin squash club in Manchester. Chris Simpson, 26 years old, is a a professional squash player who represented England as a junior. He reached a career-high world ranking of World No. 21 in October 2013. Fabio Cechin is a 29 year old squash professional from Porto Alegre in Brazil. He’s been a Squash professional since 2001, and is extremely passionate, enthusiastic, and a dynamic coach. Over the past four years, he’s worked as the assistant head coach at Marion Cricket club in Philadelphia. Simba Muhwati is a graduate of Trinity College, where he helped the team win four straight national championships. He is currently assistant pro at Cross Courts Squash and Fitness Center in Natick, MA. A Squash & Beyond staff coach, Jim Moore teaches English and AP MicroEconomics and directs the squash program at Blair Academy in New Jersey. Over his long career in education, he has served as Dean of College Counseling at Blair, Director of College Advising at Savannah (GA) Country Day School, Assistant Director of College Advising at The Hill School and Director of Alumni Relations at the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester. Chuck Ptak is an English teacher and varsity squash coach at the Nichols School in Buffalo, New York. He is a graduate of Franklin & Marshall College and Wesleyan University (Conn.), and was a Klingenstein Fellow at Columbia University. During has time as a college counselor, Chuck spent countless hours working with students on college essay drafting and editing. Chuck looks forward to working again with the Squash & Beyond campers in Williamstown! 7 Squash Tours “ Squash & Beyond Camp at Williams College was a wonderful experience for my son, on and off the squash court. He also benefited from the high level of instruction from coaches such as Nick Matthew and the competitive play among the campers. He’ll be back next summer! — P arent of camper, Summer 2013 ” “ My son had a fantastic time at camp this past summer and I know he believes his game has really improved. For reference, my son is a “new” squash player, having made the switch from competitive tennis this past winter/spring. After attending your camp, he is now fully hooked and committed. Suffice it to say, he will be back again to Squash and Beyond camps, maybe next summer in Barcelona!! ” — Parent of camper, Summer 2013 S&B Tours offer: n PROFESSIONAL SQUASH TRAINING n 2:1 PLAYER-TO-COURT RATIO n SMALL TRAINING GROUP n DAILY FITNESS SESSION Camps | Tours | Education | Language Players on our Squash and Beyond World Tours benefit from an exciting, diverse training experience: They travel to a top-ranking squash nation or region and are coached by top squash professionals. They train in the best squash club in every major city they visit, giving them the opportunity to play some of the best squash players in each region. Playing in many different venues with different partners exposes campers to a wide range of playing styles and strategies and allows them to make new friends with other junior players from around the world. Squash and Beyond World’s head coaches and tour supervisors include top high school coaches, coaches of national teams, as well as former world class players. All are inspiring, experienced instructors who enjoy teaching junior players. A squash professional who is also a skilled and enthusiastic teacher assists each head coach. Coaching is one-on-one or in small groups and includes on-court instruction in mechanics and strategy, match play, and fitness training. While alternating training with cultural exploration, players stay energized, avoid burnout, and retain their enthusiasm for both squash and travel. At each major stop on our itineraries, the group’s leaders identify two or three of that city’s top cultural sights and activities and arrange for the group to experience them. After a morning of squash practice, we might visit an historical site or art museum, sample the local cuisine, stroll along a famous boulevard, swim at a local beach, or simply take in some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. In Madrid, for example, our group went to the Prado, one of the world’s greatest art museums. In Valencia we visited the famous Museum of Science. In Zurich we visited the beautiful downtown area. In Geneva, we took a boat tour on the lake. In Barcelona, we saw the Gaudi Cathedral and the Olympic Stadium. In Munich, we toured the BMW Museum and also visited the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. In Paris, we strolled in the gardens of Versailles, visited the Eifel Tower and ate lunch at the chanselise. In Florence, we admired the Ponte Vecchio. In Rome, we visited the Colisseum. In Amsterdam, we took a tour of Ann Frank’s house. And in New Zealand, we were awed by the natural beauty of the country everywhere we went. n 3 HOURS OF INTENSE TRAINING EACH DAY n DAILY MATCH PLAY n FAN MATCHES AGAINST LOCAL JUNIORS n IMPROVE YOUR LEVEL OF PLAY n TRAVEL IN EUROPE n HIKE IN SWITZERLAND n VISIT DIFFERENT CITIES n LEARN LEADERSHIP SKILLS n PRACTICE A FOREIGN LANGUAGE n SAMPLE A DIFFERENT CUISINE n EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS Important Information To apply for one of our tours, complete the online registration form for Squash Tours at squashandbeyond.com. To check on current tour availability, or if you have any other questions, please call Zafi Levy at 413.597.4627 or 413.884.2629. Many of our tours fill by early April. Payments and Refunds The cost of each tour covers all accommodation, food, court fees, insurance, and transportation costs once the tour begins. It does not include airfare to and from the start and end point for the tour. Once you have registered online, a deposit of $1,000 will be due upon your receipt of our confirmation email. The remaining balance is due on April 1. For registrations received after April 1, full payment is due upon receipt of our confirmation email. All checks should be made out to “Squash and Beyond” and mailed to Zafi Levy, Williams College, 22 Spring Street, Williamstown, MA 01267. We cannot accept credit cards. Cancellations must be made in writing. Prior to May 10, all tuition except for the $1,000 deposit is fully refundable. After May 10, there are no refunds unless the vacant spot is taken by another participant. Unless covered by insurance, campers sent home for medical reasons or at the discretion of the camper, family, tour coach or Squash and Beyond Tours will not receive a refund. Campers sent home for breaking any part of the participation agreement are not eligible for a refund. We reserve the right to cancel any trip before the date of departure, in which case the tour participant has the option of a complete refund or transfer to another tour. Additional Costs Airfare to the start and end point, personal insurance, and personal expenses are not included in the fee. We encourage all participants to purchase airline tickets through our office in order to receive a reduced price and to make sure all participants fly together to and from each country. For gifts and other purchases, we recommend 10 that tour participants bring no more than $150 per week, in the form of traveler’s checks, cash, or credit or ATM card. We will assist you with currency conversion upon arrival. Travel Arrangements Squash and Beyond Tours partners with travel consultant Teresa Lassor of the Travel Store in Williamstown, whose services include booking airline and train tickets, reserving hotels and rental cars, arranging for special travel needs, and attending to all travel logistics throughout the tour. All Tour participants travel together on the same flight, and all trips depart from JFK Airport in New York City. Our support staff attends to all the logistical details related to each tour. Expectations and Rules Squash and Beyond Tours are physically and mentally rigorous. We expect participants to be serious squash players who aspire to play at the collegiate level. Participants are also expected to be positive and enthusiastic, and respectful of one another, their coaches, and the people and culture of the host country. The use of tobacco, alcohol, or non-prescription drugs is strictly prohibited on all tours, and Squash and Beyond reserves the right to search for illegal substances. Behavior detrimental to the safety or enjoyment of others will not be tolerated and may result in expulsion from the tour. Passports, Visas and Vaccinations A passport is required for all international trips. Visa requirements vary. We will notify you if a visa is required. Non-USA participants must check local visa requirements. We will also notify you of any required vaccinations or health precautions for the country you are visiting. Please contact your family physician or local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advisories. Insurance Squash and Beyond purchases travel insurance in each participant’s name for all U.S. students traveling internationally. However, all participants are also required to carry personal medical insur- ance and must bring their personal insurance card from home to facilitate transfer of data in an emergency. Please check with your carrier to be sure that coverage is in effect while you are traveling. To Contact Us In case of emergency, coaches, parents or campers may reach our Williamstown office by phone or email 24 hours a day: 413.597.4627 or 413.884.2629; [email protected] Communications Campers may bring international cell phones or smart phones with them to send text messages to their families. Campers may not bring laptops. During the tour, the head coach carries an international cell phone with him at all times in case of emergency. Meals Tour participants eat breakfasts at their hotel and lunches at the squash clubs where they train. Participants and coaches eat dinner together each night in local restaurants. If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, be sure to notify us when you apply. Safety The first priority of Squash and Beyond World Tours is safety. While events in international tours can never be fully predictable, our operating procedures and professional staff ensure that our tours are as safe as human ingenuity can make them. The coaching staff supervises Tour participants at all times, and Squash and Beyond purchases a personal insurance policy for each of our campers and coaches. The policy covers all expenses related to stolen luggage, medical procedures abroad, and emergency evacuation. Our back office also remains in constant contact with the head coach and tour coach during the tour. 11 June 15 - June 30 Tour of Italy When it comes to reasons to visit a country, it’s impossible to think of a nation that offers more than Italy. Where else would you find great art, glorious monuments, stunning scenery, delicious food, and vibrant culture in such abundance? You could spend a lifetime exploring Rome alone. Our tour will begin in Riccione, on Italy’s Northeast coast. When not training on the courts, we’ll relax on Riccione’s beautiful beach. Following the tournament, the group will head to Rome. The capital of Italy, Rome is a bustling city of stylish shops and busy traffic that abounds in reminders of its ancient past. In the heart of Rome, you are but a few steps away from the ruins of the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. From Rome, we will travel to Tuscany, birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and one of the most popular regions to visit in a country that is itself one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. We will visit Viareggio, one of Tuscany’s most famous beach resorts; Pisa, site of the Leaning Tower, and Florence, famed treasure house of Renaissance art and architecture. From Florence, we travel to Turin (Turino), capital and major business and culture center of the Piedmont region in northern Italy and home the world’s first Slow Food supermarket (housed in an old Fiat factory). 12 Itinerary: June 15: Depart from JFK to Milan June 16-July 18: Riccione June 19-21: Rome June 22-24: Viareggio (Northern Tuscany) June 25-26: Florence June 27-28: Torino June 29: Milan June 30: Fly back to the US HEAD COACH: Sonia Pasteris Sonia is one of Italy’s best squash players. She played the women’s professional squash tour for ten years. Since 1997, Sonia has been coaching professionally in Italy. She served as the head squash of the Italian Junior team from 2007 to 2011, and has represented Italy in nine European team championships and two world team events. 2014 will be the fourth time Sonia will lead the Italian tour for Squash and Beyond. July 18 - August 1 Squash and Hiking in Switzerland Switzerland is often reduced to banking, cheese, clocks and chocolate, but a look behind the curtain of cliches and one quickly discovers a land of adventure. Yes, Switzerland is also known for languages, direct democracy, cuisine, the Alps, nature and more, but it is the quality and combination of all components that enable an ultimate experience or even a life of adventure in Switzerland. Zürich is a real cultural center, with unique events in many different disciplines and walks of life. On any given day, there are around 70 different cultural events offered. With a beautiful lakeside location, unspoiled environment and numerous leisure and cultural activities, Zürich has always been Switzerland’s most popular tourist destination. Lichtenstein measures just 25km in length and 6km in width; the country is barely larger than Manhattan. And though it might not look like much on a map, up close it’s filled with numerous hiking and cycling trails offering spectacular views of craggy cliffs, quaint villages, friendly locals and lush green forests. Geneva with green parks, colorful gardens and lakeside promenades, is considered one of the healthiest places in the world to live. The city sits astride the River Rhône where it streams into Lake Geneva, and is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. Itinerary: July 18: Depart from JFK to Zurich July 19-22: Zurich July 23-25: Lichtenstein July 26-28: Lausanne July 29-31: Geneva August 1: Fly back to the US HEAD COACH: John Williams John is the current Swiss National Coach. John has been a full-time coach for the past 8 years and worked in several countries in Europe before settling in Zurich, Switzerland. As a player on the world Tour, John achieved highest ranking of 12. John was a member of the Australian team that won the world team event in 2001. TOUR LEADER: Ramsay Vehslage Ramsay has been a science teacher at Pingry School since 2006. He played varsity squash in high school (Princeton Day School) and Connecticut College, where he captained the team his senior year. Ramsay is the head squash coach for both the boy’s and girl’s teams at Pingry School. He holds a US Squash Level 1 Coaching Certification and has been a coach on the Squash and Beyond Camps staff since 2009. 13 July 2 - July 17 Tour of France France is one of the largest countries in Europe. It is bordered by six countries; Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany to the northeast; Switzerland and Italy across the Alps to the southeast; and Spain across the Pyrenees to the southwest. The UK is across the English Channel. France is regarded by many people as the geographical gateway to Europe. France is the world’s most popular tourist destination, and it doesn’t take long to figure out why. The country has an extremely diverse physical landscape and an equally diverse climate. There are numerous museums and art galleries in France reflecting the fact that the French are fiercely and deservedly proud of their country’s rich cultural, educational, and political heritage. France is divided into 22 official regions. Many of the regions have very clearly defined and distinct identities. This is in part due to the enormous geographical and climatic differences among the regions which force the inhabitants of the various regions to lead very different ways of life. France has a turbulent history characterized by successive revolutions, but at every stage it has been at the forefront of European development. The French are also known for taking great pride in their personal appearance and, in particular, their clothes. This is symptomatic of the importance placed on presentation in general in France. Shops, homes, and public gardens are all immaculately kept and display immense attention to detail. The French love their food. French meals usually involve three or four courses, including cheese before the dessert, and are accompanied by freshly baked breads. France is one of the world’s best squash nations. Three of the top players in the world are French: World #2 Gregory Gaultier, World #8 Thierry Lincou, and World #15 female player, Isabelle Stoehr. France has over 1,500 squash courts around the country, while Paris, Lyon, and Marseilles are considered squash hubs for many of France’s top junior and senior players. France’s National Squash Center is located in Aix-en-Provence near Marseilles. 14 Itinerary: July 2: Depart from JFK July 3-7: Paris July 8-10: Aix en Provence July 10-16: Antibes July 17: Fly back to New York HEAD COACH: Jim Moore Jim Moore teaches English and AP MicroEconomics and directs the squash program at Blair Academy in New Jersey. Over his long career in education, he has served as Dean of College Counseling at Blair, Director of College Advising at Savannah (GA) Country Day School, Assistant Director of College Advising at The Hill School and Director of Alumni Relations at the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester. July 23 - August 6 Tour of Northwest Pacific San Diego is a vacationer’s paradise, complete with idyllic year-round temperatures and 70 miles of pristine coastline. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading family destinations, the city is equally attractive to those in search of art, culture, world-class shopping, and culinary exploration. While there, the group will perform community service with the Access Youth Academy, a non-profit organization that inspires underprivileged youth to excel through a program combining academics, the sport of squash and community service. Famous for its beautiful scenery and landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Victorian architecture, famous landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, San Francisco is one of the world’s most popular international destinations. The city of Portland sits in the shadow of the spectacular Mount Hood, just south of the Oregon-Washington border. Local attractions range from the outdoor appeal of alpine skiing and hiking to the enjoyment of museums, restaurants and other cultural fare that area has to offer. Located on the shore of sparkling Elliott Bay, with the snowy peak of Mount Rainier in the distance, Seattle has a magnificent setting, with a modern skyline of glass skyscrapers, a friendly charm and vibrant atmosphere. Itinerary: July 23: Depart from JFK to San Francisco July 23-27: San Francisco July 28-31: Portland August 1-5: Seattle August 6: Fly back to New York HEAD COACH: Craig Thorpe-Clark Craig is one of the most experienced squash coaches in the US. A former head squash coach at the University of Pennsylvania (1999-2010) and Vassar College (1994-1998). Served as the head coach of the U.S. national team for two world championships and the Pan American Games. Coach Clark has been a head coach at Squash and Beyond since 2010. 15 Education Programs Camps | Tours | Education | Language “ My son had a rewarding experience working at the Habitat for Humanity project in North Adams. He soaked up the on-court instruction and work with Nick Matthews and the great group of coaches and enjoyed the high-level play with the other talented players at camp. On top of that, the outdoor recreational activities and group meals at local Williamstown restaurants made for great memories. Where else can a kid do meaningful community service and play high level squash with world-class instructors? Over the past few years, some of our most popular programs have combined our signature squash and activities programs with writing and SAT prep courses. As is the case with everything we offer at Squash and Beyond, balance is the key: we want our campers to become better squash players and more effective students while having a fun summer experience that remember all their lives. — P arent of camper, Summer 2013 Our College Essay program will be instructed by Jim Moore, a veteran English and Economics teacher and director of squash programs at Blair Academy (NJ) and Chuck Ptak- English teacher and squash coach at Nichols School (NY). Chuck will also teach the Writing Program. ” This year Squash and Beyond offers the following educational programs: n Squash and Essay Writing (ages 14-16) n Squash and College Essay Writing (rising juniors and seniors) n Squash and SAT Prep (rising juniors and seniors) Campers enrolled in these programs participate in all squash training and evening non-squash activities; SAT sessions and writing workshops take place in the mornings before practice and during the two-hour break during lunch. Program instructors Our SAT program will be taught by two experienced high school teachers from Mount Greylock Regional HS in Williamstown, Robert Thistle, Math teacher and Matthew Fischer, English teacher. S&B Camps offer: n TOP INTERNATIONAL COACHES n TECHNIQUE AND TACTICS n DAILY FITNESS WORKOUTS n DAILY MATCH PLAY n 4:1 PLAYER-TO-COACH RATIO n 2:1 PLAYER-TO-COURT RATIO n VIDEO ANALYSIS n INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION n IMPROVE YOUR LEVEL OF PLAY n Participate in a community n n n service project Improve your writing skills Work on your college essay Improve your SAT scores July 6 - 11 Squash and Writing programs: Williams College Daily Schedule: 7:30 am: Wake-up call 8-8:30 am: Breakfast 9-noon: 1st squash session of the day 12:00-2:30 pm: Lunch and Writing session 2:30-4:30 pm: 2nd squash session of the day 5-5:30 pm: Dinner break 6:30-9:30 pm: Night activities 9:30-10:30 pm: Home work period This hands-on program is designed to help student athletes ages 14–16 develop the qualities that set the most successful writers apart: enthusiasm, confidence, and curiosity. By experimenting with style, form, and a range of genres from memoir to sports writing, participants will build rhetorical awareness while acquiring a better sense of who they are as writers. During each writing session, campers can expect to write, discuss, and engage in interactive writing exercises, all in a supportive environment. Campers will also have the chance to receive individualized feedback about their writing from the instructor. The program is limited to 12 participants, and campers will complete a total of 20 hours of writing instruction throughout the week. Writers of all levels are welcome. Writing Teacher: Chuck Patek. The Squash and Writing program offers the same level of squash training as any other squash session during the summer at Squash and Beyond Camps. The Squash and Writing program will combine daily squash training with intensive writing workshop. Participants in this program will spend two hours each morning in the classroom perfecting their writing skills, followed by 3 hours of intense squash training. After lunch break, campers will return to the courts to complete the second squash session of the day which will include two hours of match play and tactical analysis. After dinner break, campers will participate in fun outdoor activities through 9pm. Upon return from the night activities, each camper will be responsible to complete one hour of homework assignments before going to bed. Chuck Ptak is an English teacher and varsity squash coach at the Nichols School in Buffalo, New York. He is a College and Wesleyan University (Conn.), and was a Klingenstein Fellow at Columbia University. During has time as a college counselor, Chuck spent countless hours working with students on college essay drafting and editing. Chuck looks forward to working again with the Squash & Beyond campers In Williamstown! HEAD COACH: Neil Guirey Neil Guirey is the head coach at Abbeydale squash club in Sheffield, England. Former coach at Chapel Allerton in Leeds, Neil is a Level 3 qualified coach. Neil works with World Champion Nick Matthew, as well as European Champions Ashley Davies and Carrie Ramsey. 18 Session 1, August 3 - 8/ Session 2, August 17 - 22 Squash and College Essay I & II Each February, admissions officers throughout the land pore over stacks of documents, searching for something to distinguish an applicant from the thousands of others who present good grades, strong test scores and effusive recommendations. Very often, what creates that distinction is a essay that reveals what transcripts, score reports and even the most thoughtful and observant recommendations do not: a first-hand look at how a student thinks and writes. The College Essay Workshop is a week-long program for students who plan to apply to college within the next two years. Interspersed between training sessions at the Simon Squash Center, the course meets for a total three hours a day during the week to draft, discuss, revise and polish responses to real college essay topics. During the week, an admissions officer from Williams College will meet with us to provide an application reader’s perspective on the best and worst approaches to the application essay. After the final day of squash camp, we’ll spend an intensive eight hours working toward the completion of each participant’s primary essay and, if time allows, a supplementary essay as well. The Squash and Writing program offers the same level of squash training as any other squash session during the summer at Squash and Beyond Camps. The Squash and Writing program will combine daily squash training with intensive writing workshop. Participants in this program will spend two hours during lunch time in the classroom perfecting their writing skills, followed by 3 hours of intense squash training. After lunch break, campers will return to the courts to complete the second squash session of the day which will include two hours of match play and tactical analysis. After dinner break, campers will participate in fun outdoor activities through 9pm. At night, the campers will spend 60 minute working on their individual College Essay before going to bed. * Program runs for 7 days Daily Schedule: Saturday: Check in at 2pm 2:30-5 pm: First College Essay session 5-7 pm: Dinner break 7-9:30 pm: Second College Essay session Sunday: 8 am: Wake up call 9-noon: First College Essay session Noon-2 pm: Lunch break 2 pm: Join the rest of the squash campers Monday-Friday 7:30 am: Wake-up call. 8-8:30 am: Breakfast. 9-noon: 1st squash session of the day 12:00-2:30pm: Lunch and Writing session 2:30-4:30pm: 2 nd squash session of the day 5-5:30: Dinner break 6:30-9:pm: Night activities 9-10:30pm: Home work period Session I, Writing Teacher: Chuck Ptak Chuck Ptak is an English teacher and varsity squash coach at the Nichols School in Buffalo, New York. He is a College and Wesleyan University (Conn.), and was a Klingenstein Fellow at Columbia University. During has time as a college counselor, Chuck spent countless hours working with students on college essay drafting and editing. Chuck looks forward to working again with the Squash & Beyond campers In Williamstown! Session II, Writing Teacher: Jim Moore Jim teaches English and AP MicroEconomics and directs the squash program at Blair Academy in New Jersey. Over his long career in education, he has served as Dean of College Counseling at Blair, Director of College Advising at Savannah (GA) Country Day School, 2nd Assistant Director of College Advising at The Hill School In addition, Jim has been an application reader for undergraduate admissions at both Rochester and Georgetown University. He holds a B.A. in English from Cornell University. 19 August 3 - 8 Squash and SAT program: Williams College For the sixth year in a row, Squash and Beyond will be offering a squash training session combines with an SAT preparation course. Designed for campers entering freshman year in high school or older. The SAT course includes two full-length diagnostic SAT exams; one will be sent to all campers prior to the start of the course; the second test will be completed by each camper at the end of the course. The Squash and SAT program combines daily squash training with intensive math/critical reading classes taught by experience instructors. We will offer two separate classes during the course: math and Critical reading. Each class will be limited to 20 students. “ My son had a fantastic time at camp! He came back with many stories about how incredible the coaching was - he felt enormously privileged to be coached by this group. Also, he loved the activities, the restaurants, the other kids. He found the SAT classes very helpful and was surprised how well he did on the practice SAT. ” — P arent of camper, Summer 2013 20 Daily Schedule: 7:30 am: Wake-up call 8-8:30 am: Breakfast 9-noon: 1st squash session of the day 12:00-2:30 pm: Lunch and SAT class 2:30-4:30 pm: 2nd squash session of the day 5-5:30 pm: Dinner break 6:30-9:30 pm: Night activities 9:30-10:30 pm: Home work period MATH TEACHER: Robert Thistle Robert is the curriculum leader of the mathematics dept at Mount Greylock Regional High School. He teaches AP Calculus, PreCalculus and Geometry and has taught all the high school mathematics courses at MGRHS. Robert has taught SAT prep for over 10 years. He graduated from Boston University BA and UMASS Boston (Masters). He is the high school boys’ basketball coach at MGRHS. Critical Reading: Matthew Fisher Matthew Fisher is an English teacher at Mount Greylock Regional High School with ten years of pedagogical experience. He first taught students for the SAT when he worked in New York City, and for the last eight years, he has prepared students for the test in New York, the Boston area, and now Williamstown. For the last two years, he has been Mount Greylock’s Reading and Writing SAT instructor in a program that was co-sponsored by Williams College, and last summer, he began working for the Squash and SAT camp. August 10 - 15 Squash and Community Service: This unique program is designated for campers age 16 and older who wish to participate in a squash camp and community service project at the same time. Each day participants will take part in all morning squash training sessions (3 hours each morning) and will spend six hours working on a Habitat for Humanity building project. As with any Squash and Beyond program, campers will enjoy exciting outdoor activities each night and during the weekend. The goal of this program is to combine elite squash training with some of the world’s best coaches and the opportunity to take part in an intensive community service project. Habitat for Humanity, or simply Habitat, is an international, nongovernmental, non-profit organization devoted to building simple, decent, and affordable housing. Community-level Habitat offices act in partnership with and on behalf of Habitat for Humanity. In the United States, these local offices are called Habitat affiliates, which coordinate all aspects of Habitat home building in their local area, including fundraising, building site selection, partner family selection and support, house construction, and mortgage servicing. The mission statement of Habitat for Humanity reads: “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.” Habitat homes are built using volunteer labor and are sold at no profit. Squash and Beyond Camp has partnered with the Berkshires Habitat Affiliate and will join forces with the organization to assist in one of the local building projects scheduled for summer of 2014 in Berkshire County. Over the course of the week, participants will take active part in a building project of a home and will accumulate 20 hours of community service hours. While they are on the building site, campers will be supervised at all times by Berkshire Habitat Affiliate programs’ coordinator Paul Austin and his staff. Weekend activities include: Kayaking trip down the Deerfield River and Jiminy Peak Adventure Park. Daily Schedule: Monday-Friday 7am: Wake up call 7:30-9 First squash training 10-12:30: Work at construction site 12:30-1pm: Lunch break 1-4: Work at construction site 4-6pm: Dinner break 6-7:30: Second squash session of day 8-10pm: Night activity HEAD COACH: Craig Thorpe-Clark Craig is one of the most experienced squash coaches in the US. A former head squash coach at the University of Pennsylvania (1999-2010) and Vassar College (1994-1998). Served as the head coach of the U.S. national team for two world championships and the Pan American Games. Coach Clark has been a head coach at Squash and Beyond since 2010. TOUR LEADER: Paul H. Austin Paul H. Austin has been involved with Habitat for Humanity for more than 10 years and currently serves as President and Project Manager for the local affiliate, Northern Berkshire Habitat for Humanity, Inc. He has supervised the construction of three energy efficient homes in Williamstown, working with volunteers from all age groups. 21 Language Programs Camps | Tours | Education | Language “ Our son had a wonderful experience with the Squash and Beyond Foreign Language Abroad program this past summer in Barcelona. The small group provided for intensive immersion in the spanish language and culture as well as providing excellent squash instruction. He made good friends, and both his accent and play improved. I can highly recommend this program. — P arent of a camper, Summer 2013 ” Since 2012, Squash and Beyond introduced the first programs to combine intensive squash training with foreign language immersion abroad. The programs proved to be so popular that this year we have added four more sections to the original two. Each three-week program will enable students to strengthen their squash game and improve their foreign language skills while exploring a particular city or region in a small, well-supervised group. These programs are open to high school squash players who have had at least one year of instruction in the language of the country to be visited, or equivalent language experience outside the classroom. Our programs are small enough for our language instructors to be able to accommodate a variety of language levels, from second year through advanced. Squash Training Students will train with the head squash professional–an experienced squash instructor who will also be responsible for supervising all group activities. Squash and Beyond prides itself on the caliber of instruction in each of our programs. The instructors in our Squash and Foreign Language programs are passionate about teaching and skilled in working with junior players. Students will receive two hours of intensive squash training and one hour of fitness training each weekday. Squash training will include one-on-one and small group coaching as well as competitive play. Fitness training will aim to build strength, speed and stamina. The group will also have opportunities to play friendly matches with local squash players at each club. SQUASH INSTRUCTION HOURS: 60 hours of squash training (one two-hour session each weekday); 15 hours of fitness training (one hour each weekday). S&B Language Programs offer: n IMPROVE YOUR SQUASH GAME n PROFESSIONAL SQUASH TRAINING n 2:1PLAYER-TO-COURT RATIO n SMALL TRAINING GROUPS n TWO HOURS OF INTENSE TRAINING EACH DAY n DAILY FITNESS SESSION n DAILY MATCH PLAY n FAN MATCHES AGAINST LOCAL JUNIORS n FRENCH, SPANISH n DAILY LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION n TEACHERS WHO ARE NATIVE SPEAKERS n CONVERSE WITH LOCALS n Gain Confidence IN SPEAKING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE Important Information Language Immersion To facilitate rapid language progress, students will be encouraged to speak only the native language of the country they are visiting. Our language instructors are native speakers as well as experienced teachers. Our French, Spanish and Chinese language instructors are all teaching associates in the language departments at Williams College. Our Hebrew language instructor has been a private Hebrew and English tutor in Israel and the US since 2003. The language instructors will live with the students, providing two one-and-one-half-hour sessions of formal instruction and two one-hour sessions of structured conversational practice each day, as well as ongoing opportunities to converse informally with a native speaker. Language Instructions Hours: 60 hours of instruction with a native speaker (two daily one-and-a-half hour sessions); 30 hours of conversational practice supervised by a native speaker (two daily one-hour sessions) Daily Schedule Squash and Beyond believes that teens learn best when relatively short sessions of formal instruction are interspersed with physical exercise, outdoor activities, and rest and recreation. Accordingly, rather than having students spend half a day in a classroom, we have designed our language program so that language practice alternates throughout the day with squash training, cultural exploration, recreation and relaxation. Each day will begin with breakfast in the apartment and one and-a-half hours of language instruction. After the language session, the group will travel to the squash club for two hours of squash training. Lunch will feature hearty sandwiches prepared by the group leader using local ingredients. After lunch, the schedule will vary, depending on the day’s activities, but on weekdays, the afternoon will always include another 24 hour of fitness training, which may take place at the beach, in a swimming pool, on a hiking trail, or at the squash club’s fitness center or gym. The rest of the afternoon, the group will sightsee in town or travel to nearby towns or attractions, relax at the beach, shop at local markets for their dinner ingredients, or enjoy supervised free time. Both the group leader and the language instructor will accompany students on all outings. Each activity will provide an opportunity for informal language practice and the introduction of new vocabulary. The language instructor will also incorporate an hour of structured conversational practice in each afternoon’s activities. Each evening, while the group leader prepares dinner, the language instructor will conduct the second one-and-a-half hour language session of the day. Dinner will be another occasion for conversational practice as well as group bonding. Students will take turns assisting the group leader with dinner preparation and cleanup. Weekend Travel On weekends, students will travel as a group, making day trips to nearby cities, towns and beaches accompanied by their language instructor and group leader. In addition to encouraging language practice on these excursions, the language instructor will help students navigate public transportation, understand local customs, and appreciate what the host country and culture have to offer the visitor. Supervision The group leader and the language instructor will live with the students and accompany them on all excursions, providing round-the-clock supervision. Accommodations Students will live in a comfortable furnished apartment close to their program’s squash club or within easy commuting distance via public transportation. We personally select these apartments to ensure that they are in safe neighborhoods and that all routes–by public transport–to the squash club are safe as well. Apartments are equipped with a private kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. Students will have their own bed, but should expect to share a room with another student. Girls and boys will stay in separate rooms. Parents and Students Please Note: We expect students in our Squash and Language programs to adhere to the same rules that apply in all of our programs and tours. There will be no late-night activities, and the use of tobacco, alcohol, or non-prescription drugs is strictly prohibited. Language Requirement Our language programs are open to high school squash players who have at least one year of instruction in the language of the program or equivalent language experience outside the classroom. Exceptions may be made, depending on the type of language experience the student has had. If you are uncertain about whether or not your student’s language background qualifies, please give our office a call. 25 July 5 - July 26 Squash and French: South of France This three-week program combines intensive squash training with French language immersion and cultural exploration of the Côte d’Azur, the fabled French Riviera. Students will live in Antibes, one of the region’s prettiest coastal towns, and will train at the Antibes Squash and Fitness Club. The group will spend part of each weekday exploring Antibes’ cultural and scenic attractions: its picturesque old quarter, lively open-air markets, seaside promenade, medieval stone towers, and beautiful beaches. On weekends, the group will make day trips to other towns and cities on the Côte d’Azur: Marseilles, a bustling seaport known for its ancient buildings and many museums and galleries; Cannes, glamorous resort town and host to the world’s most famous film festival; Nice, the Riviera’s capital, with its palm-lined promenade, pastel palaces and famous view of the bay; and the sovereign city-state of Monaco, elegant gathering place for European society. Students will be encouraged to speak only French on this tour. Open to high school squash players who have had one year of French language instruction or the equivalent. LANGUAGE TEACHER: Joanna Sprout Joanna Sprout teaches French and Spanish at Blair Academy in Blairstown, NJ. Before joining the Blair faculty in 2013, she lived abroad for over a year and a half in Toulouse, France, where she studied literature at the Université de Toulouse le Mirail and was an English teaching assistant in French public schools. This is her first year teaching in Squash and Beyond’s South of France program. For the last two summers, she has directed the foreign language program at Renbrook School in Connecticut. 26 July 5 - July 26 Squash and Spanish: Barcelona This three-week program combines intensive squash training with Spanish language immersion and cultural exploration of Barcelona, Spain’s most cosmopolitan and energetic city and one of the Mediterranean’s busiest ports. Students will live in Barcelona and will train at the Esportiu Rocafort Athletic Club. The group will spend part of each weekday exploring Barcelona’s cultural and scenic attractions: Antoni Gaudí’s surreal architecture, the Picasso Museum, the Gothic Quarter, the lively Ramblas, the colorful Mercat de la Boqueria, and the beautiful beaches that are just minutes from the city’s center. On weekends, the group will explore Barcelona further and will also make day trips to some of the beautiful towns and excellent beaches along the rugged coastline of the Costa Brava as well as to Montserrat (Serrated Mountain), an astonishing limestone massif whose caves and rocky crags have been attracting hermits, monks and tourists since the fifth century. Students will be encouraged to speak only Spanish on this tour. Open to high school squash players who have had one year of Spanish language instruction or the equivalent. LANGUAGE TEACHER: Elena Renedo Elena was born and raised in Madrid. This is Elena’s second year of teaching at Squash and Beyond, and her 3rd trip to Barcelona with SAB. Last year she was the Spanish teacher for the Barcelona program. In 2011, she worked as a Spanish language teaching associate at Williams College. She holds an undergraduate degree in English from the Complutense University in Madrid. “ Our daughter thoroughly enjoyed her Squash and Beyond trip to Barcelona. It was a perfect combination of physical activity and language learning. Not only did her squash game improve, so too did her overall physical fitness. But perhaps the most impressive strides were made in her Spanish language capabilities. Her time in Barcelona was invaluable in terms of her Spanish language improvement. We strongly recommend this program. ” — Parent of camper, Summer 2013 27 July 28 - August 18 Squash and Spanish: Madrid This three-week program combines intensive squash training with Spanish language immersion and cultural exploration of Madrid, Spain’s capital since 1561 and largest city. Students will live in Madrid and will train at Castellena Squash Club. Top among Madrid’s cultural attractions is the Prado Museum, a treasure trove of art collected by Spanish royalty since the time of Ferdinand and Isabella; highlights include the works of Spain’s three great masters—Goya, Velazquez and El Greco. But the city is full of places worth visiting. To name a few: the Reina Sofia Museum of modern art, featuring the works of Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali; the CaixaForum, a striking contemporary arts complex, one of whose walls is a four-story vertical garden; the 18th-century Royal Palace with its 2,800 opulently decorated rooms and Royal Armory, where medieval torture instruments are displayed. LANGUAGE TEACHER: Elena Renedo Elena was born and raised in Madrid. This is her second year of teaching at Squash and Beyond. Last year she was the Spanish teacher for the Barcelona program. In 2011, she worked as a Spanish language teaching associate at Williams College. She holds an undergraduate degree in English from the Complutense University in Madrid. Madrid’s many parks and historic plazas offer other diversions. The vast Parque del Buen Retiro was once the private playground of kings and queens; now anyone can enjoy its gardens, lakes, fountains and outdoor cafés. On weekends, its grounds come alive with puppet theater, flamenco concerts, jugglers, street musicians, street painters and fortune-tellers as well as hundreds of madrileños out for a jog or a bike ride. The grand Plaza Mayor Review, completed in 1620, is one of the largest public squares in Europe. Its quiet presence today belies its eventful past: here, heretics were once burned, criminals were executed, matadors confronted bulls, and royals were married. For treasure hunters, there’s El Rastro, Europe’s largest flea market, on a site that’s been an open-market for 500 years. And for those who just want a cooling swim, there are many sports complexes around the city with huge open-air swimming pools. On weekends, the group will travel to sites within a few hours by train or bus from Madrid: The walled town of Toledo, surrounded by the River Tajo, was Spain’s capital in medieval times. In the 16th-century, the city was the setting for many of El Greco’s paintings. Today, Toledo’s cobblestone streets and medieval architecture still evoke the city portrayed by El Greco, and its churches and museums hold some of his most famous works. Segovia, north of Madrid, is best known for its amazingly preserved first-century Roman aqueduct and its fairy-tale castle, Alcázar, said to have inspired the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Also to the north of Madrid is the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, which offers countless hiking options, including the fascinating granite landscape of Parque de la Pedriza and the alpine lakes and basins of Peñalara. Students will be encouraged to speak only Spanish on this tour. Open to high school squash players who have had one year of Spanish language instruction or the equivalent. 28 CAMPS LANGUAGES Education 3 TOURS Outdoor activities COMMUNITY SERVICE Summer Camps at Williams College Education Programs at Williams College 14 training sessions: June 15-August 22 Squash and Writing Programs Squash and College Essay Squash and SAT program Squash and Community Service Squash Tours Tour of Italy Squash and hiking in Switzerland Tour of France Tour of Northwest Pacific Language Programs Squash and French: South of France Squash and Spanish: Barcelona Squash and Spanish: Madrid Since 2003 Camps | Tours | Education | Language Camps | Tours | Education | Language squashandbeyond.com squashandbeyond.com