Release Date: Friday, March 22, 2013
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office
The Chickasaw Nation is now accepting applications for 2013 youth camps, clinics, events and academies. A number of tribal divisions work together to offer a variety of educational and recreational activities for youth to explore new opportunities and learn new skills. Application deadlines are fast approaching, with many in April and May.
Chickasaw Nation 2013 youth events and deadlines include:
Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy (CSAA)
July 15-27
East Central University, Ada, Okla.
Application deadline: April 5
Open to students ages
CSAA is a two-week academy that provides youth opportunities to gain experience in visual and vocal arts. Students ages eight to 18 are eligible to audition for the academy. Students must be eight before the application deadline and must be no older than 18 or have entered college.
Students ages 13 – 18 must schedule an audition time in order to be eligible for acceptance into CSAA. Auditions will take place Saturday, May 4, 2013 at the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center at East Central University in Ada. Auditions are competitive and will serve to assess student placement into an appropriate track. Students will be contacted with a scheduled audition time.
Parents should plan to attend one of the two parent orientations, April 4 or April 11, taking place at the Division of Arts and Humanities building, 201 North Broadway in Ada, Okla.
Applications can be found at www.chickasaw.net/csaa. For more information, and to receive an audition packet, contact the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities at 580-272-5520 or email csaa@chickasaw.net.
Camp Survivor
YMCA Camp Classen, near Davis, Okla.
May 28-31
Application deadline: April 15
Open to Chickasaw students ages 9-13
Camp Survivor is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition and exercise in a fun and positive camp atmosphere. Campers will experience a variety of activities such as swimming, rock climbing, canoeing, fishing, hiking and stickball. There will be tribal councils, team building activities and competitions. This is an overnight camp. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact Allen Elliott at (580) 310-7981or allen.elliott@chickasaw.net.
Environmental Camp
Ada, Okla.
May 29-31
Application deadline: April 15
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-12
Learn about the world around you during Environmental Camp, hosted by the Chickasaw Nation Environmental Services Department. Campers will get a behind-the-scenes look at many facilities that go unseen by the typical citizen and learn on-going conservation efforts. A trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo for a hands-on educational experience is planned. This is a day camp. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information contact the environmental services department at (580) 272-5456.
Chickasaw Nation Space and Aviation Camp (CNASA)
Ada, Okla.
June 10-14
Application deadline: April 16
Open to Chickasaw students in grades 5-12
Chickasaw Nation Space and Aviation Camp (CNASA) is a learning program designed to encourage Chickasaw students interested in aviation, space, science or math to pursue careers and opportunities in their fields. Students spend the week flying in simulators, learning through hands-on demonstrations, and have a chance to fly in a real plane. CNASA is day camp, and a limited number of scholarships are available. If applying for a scholarship, complete a CNASA application postmarked by the deadline date. A copy of the participant’s Chickasaw Nation citizenship card or certificate is required; a Certificate Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) will not be accepted. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact Oscar Gore at (580) 272-5579 or at oscar.gore@chickasaw.com
NASA Space Camp
Huntsville, Ala.
June 17-23
Application deadline: April 16
Open to Chickasaw students ages 9 -18
This challenging week-long school is conducted at Huntsville, Ala., and designed for students to discover their engineering talent. Participants get hands-on training, as well as learn about the mental, emotional and physical demands astronauts must face. Fields of study include engineering, space technology and aerospace science. It is conducted at NASA Space Center in Huntsville, Ala. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact Oscar Gore at (580) 272-5579 or email oscar.gore@chickasaw.net.
Golf Camp
WinStar Golf Course, Thackerville, Okla.
Beginning Golf: June 3-4, Advanced Golf: June 5-6
Application deadline: May 1
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-18
Along with an introduction to the game of golf, Chickasaw youth will learn lessons in honor, integrity and sportsmanship. Instruction for all skill levels is provided with a highly knowledgeable and motivated staff. Golf Camp is an overnight camp. Students should apply for the camp which represents their level of play. Golf Camp is supported by the United States Golf Association, the Professional Golfers Association of Central Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Nation and the Chickasaw Foundation. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Native American Junior Open
Lakeview Golf Course, Ardmore, Okla.
June 7
Application deadline: On-site registration
$20 registration fee required
Open to Native American youth ages 8-18
The Native American Junior Open allows youth to experience a tournament atmosphere, without the pressures of a school or association tournament. It is also a Team Chickasaw qualifying tournament for Chickasaw youth ages 12-18. Team Chickasaw will participate in various tournaments throughout the year. The $20 registration fee covers the cost of green fees, lunch and range balls. Pre-registration is not available. For more information contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net.
Tennis Clinic
Ada Tennis Center, Ada, Okla.
Session I –ages 8-11, June 10-13
Sessions II – ages 12-18, June 17-20
Application deadline: May 1
The goal of these clinics is to provide Chickasaw youth the opportunity to learn the sport of tennis, which can be played for a lifetime. Beginner and intermediate tennis clinics are offered.
Both sessions are open to Chickasaw youth ages 8-18. Participants will learn honor, integrity, sportsmanship and teamwork. Campers may only apply for one session. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore and Purcell. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Tanumpo Hosa Apisa (Marksmanship Camp)
One-day clinic
July 12
Application deadline: May 1
Open to Chickasaw students ages 12 -18
Tanumpo Hosa Apisa "gun shoot straight” is designed to encourage participation in a training program for young Chickasaw students wishing to excel in Olympic-style rifle and pistol shooting, or competitive archery using a compound bow. This clinic features instruction on gun safety, marksmanship techniques and archery, for up to 50 students. Tanumpo Hosa Apisa will focus on the disciplines required for competition-style target shooting, and consist of classroom instruction and firing practice. The pistols and rifles used are Olympic-style air guns. Instruction will be provided by certified instructors, Lighthorse officers, and local, nationally-trained coaches. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Champions Football Clinic
Ada High Football Complex, Ada, Okla.
June 27-29
Application deadline: May 1
Open to male Chickasaw students ages 8- 18
Led by veteran coach Ken Heupel, Champions Football Clinic campers learn the fundamentals of football, teamwork and leadership. The clinic will also feature former University of Oklahoma quarterback Josh Heupel, and other special guests. Clinic highlights include an 8 to 1 student to instructor ratio, offensive and defensive drills, flag football, and a competition where each student may select one guest to join them in the game. This is a day clinic. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore and Purcell. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Champions Cheerleading Clinic
Chickasaw Nation Family Life Center, Ada, Okla.
June 28-29
Application deadline: May 1
Open to female Chickasaw students ages 8-18
Champions Cheerleading Clinic participants will be instructed on motion, jumps, spirit, rhythm, health and fitness, by a team of Day of Champions cheerleading coaches. The experience will include mentoring in the areas of character, responsibility, goal-setting, dedication, hard work and integrity. Cheerleaders will be able to enhance their abilities and learn basic cheerleading fundamentals geared to their skill level. There will be a Saturday performance and each student may select one guest to join them for the performance. This is a day clinic. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore and Purcell. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Youth Basketball Clinics
Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City
July 8-9
Application deadline: May 1
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-18
The Basketball Clinics are open to Chickasaw girls and boys ages 8 to 18. During these clinics, students will have the opportunity to learn basketball techniques from current and former high school and university players and coaches. This is an overnight clinic. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Chikasha Sayah (I Am Chickasaw)
Anadarko, Okla.
July 1-2
Application deadline: May 1
Open to Chickasaw students ages 10- 14
Chickasaw heritage and culture lessons are top priorities at this camp. Open to Chickasaw students ages 10 to 14, campers will learn about environmental responsibility. Swimming, boating and volleyball are also planned for this overnight camp. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
FCA Xtreme Camp
Cross Point Camp, Kingston, Okla.
June 16-20
Application deadline: May 1
Sponsorship for Chickasaw students ages 15-18
This overnight camp is for young men and women who want to enjoy a week full of challenging activities, great fellowship and awesome assemblies. Campers will have the opportunity to water ski, water tube, skeet shoot, rappel, ride horses, compete in a variety of huddle competitions, scale the 65-foot climbing tower and experience the high ropes challenge course. Campers will also enjoy outstanding speakers, great music, and challenging competitions. This camp emphasizes leadership, fun, personal growth and building great friendships. The Chickasaw Nation will sponsor the attendance of selected Chickasaw youth to participate in this camp. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
FCA Competitors Camp
Camp Walk On Water, Stuart, Okla.
July 10-14
Application deadline: May 1
Sponsorship for Chickasaw students ages 11-14
This overnight camp combines the great facilities and activities of Camp WOW with the athleticism and competition that has defined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes ministry for more than 50 years. Campers will be assigned to a huddle led by a college athlete. Huddles will meet together to pray and play. Activities will include the climbing wall, zip line (over land and water), the Blob, water slide, ropes course, obstacle course and much more. Bible devotions, upbeat music and topical discussions will also be a part of the day’s activities. The Chickasaw Nation will sponsor the attendance of selected Chickasaw youth to participate in this camp. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620
Chickasaw Language Immersion Family Camp
Tatanka Ranch, Stroud, Okla.
June 16-21 (three sessions)
Application deadline: May 15
Open to Chickasaw families
This overnight camp is designed to promote the use of the Chickasaw language within Chickasaw families. Camp activities include kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, gardening and other activities with primary instruction being through Chickasaw language. This is an overnight camp and participants must have transportation to and from camp. To learn more, visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, or to obtain an application, contact Rachel Wedlow at (580) 272-5540.
Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Youth Academy
June 24-27
Lighthorse Police Headquarters, Ada, Okla.
Application deadline: June 3
Open to Native American youth ages 9-15
The Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Youth Academy provides an excellent opportunity for Native American youth to explore a career in law enforcement. Students will hear from law enforcement personnel and will also learn life skills such as CPR, communication, safety and crime prevention. Twenty-five Native American youth will be selected. Chickasaw youth will be given first priority for the camp. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact Brent Harper at (580) 436-1166 or at brent.harper@chickasaw.net.
Yaakni Inaalhpisaat Chokma "Justice for a Nation” Court Camp
Tribal Judicial Building, Ada, Okla.
July 11-12
Application deadline June: 1
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-15
A two-day clinic that educates students about the operations of the tribe’s court system, this camp emphasizes leadership and personal growth. Students will also tour CLEET, the Chickasaw Nation Legislature building and the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Students will be introduced to individuals who support the courts such as Lighthorse Police, judges, justices, peacemakers and court clerks. Each student will also have a part in a mock trial. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact Connie Tillery at (580) 235-0281 or Connie.Tillery@chickasaw.net.
Himitta Alhiha Hochokoshkomo "The Youth are Playing”
Chickasaw Language Sports Camp
Various locations
July 22-26
Application deadline: June 5
Open to Chickasaw youth grades 1-6.
Himitta Alhiha Hochokoshkomo is designed to promote the use of the Chickasaw language in an interactive, athletic environment. Sports included in the camp are: To’li’ (stickball), basketball, softball, volleyball, soccer, and numerous other games and activities. Participants must have transportation to and from camp. Camp participation is limited to 30 campers per day. For an application and more information, contact Clovis Hamilton at (580) 272-5592 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
Hayaka Unta
Camp Simpson
October 18-20
Application deadline: September 13
Open to Chickasaw students ages 8-18
The goal of this overnight camp is to give Chickasaw youth and their parent or guardian, an opportunity to share quality time together, while enjoying the natural beauty of the outdoors. Hayaka Unta allows youth and their parent or guardian the opportunity to strengthen their relationship, in a safe, wholesome and enjoyable environment, away from the everyday distractions of life. Camp activities include fishing, skeet shooting, hiking, archery and much more. Camping is primitive style in a provided tent. A total of 20 students will be selected to attend this unique camp. Students may choose either a male or female parent or guardian to accompany them. From those applicants not selected to attend this camp, 20 more campers will be chosen to attend the Hayaka Unta Spring camp at the same location in April 2014. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Halloween Lock-In
Norman
October 25
Application deadline: September 20
Open to Chickasaw youth ages 8-18
Students who attend this Halloween themed lock-in will participate in mini-bowling, Go-Karts, batting cages, mini-golf, climbing wall, bumper cars, bumper boats, arcade and lots of other fun activities. A pizza and soda buffet will be provided during the event. The lock-in will also feature door prize drawings and a Halloween costume contest. Chickasaw youth will receive first priority. Students will not be allowed to leave the facility until doors open October 26. If needed, transportation will be provided from Tishomingo, Davis, Ardmore, Purcell and Ada. Applications are available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. For more information, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620.
Application Information
Submitting an application does not guarantee selection to the camp. Applicants should be aware once acceptance to a youth services event has been determined, attendance is required. If circumstances prevent attendance, selection for future events may be hindered.
For more information or to obtain an application, contact the division of youth services at (580) 310-6620. Return application(s) to the Chickasaw Nation Division of Youth Services, 231 Seabrook Road, Ada, OK 74820 or fax to (580) 310-6626. Additional information is available at www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps. Applications may be submitted by mail, fax or online.