Written by Sam Kumler, Counselor, former camper, and 2023 King
“I often find myself thinking of Camp O-AT-KA during this time of year. I think of the sunny days of summer in Maine as I look out at a dreary Ohio landscape, wishing I could be back on the shores of Sebago Lake playing Griffball, diving off the dive tower, or teaching basketball. As I play card games with my family over the holidays, I sometimes think of hours spent in cabins teaching and playing those same games. Being surrounded by family and friends, whom I might not see regularly throughout the year, reminds me of living in happy fellowship with my camp family and friends each summer. And as I followed the tradition of lighting a Candlelight candle at Christmas, I thought of the camp community spread across the world.
For many of us, the holidays are both a time to reflect on the past year and a chance to look forward at the coming year. They are also the midpoint of the offseason for camp and, for me, a time when it begins to feel less like I am in the wake of summer 2025 and more like I am in the buildup to summer 2026. I have reflected on last summer. What went well in my new role as a Head Counselor? What led to our successes last summer, and how can we replicate them? What are some ways we can make the O-AT-KA experience even better? Now, it is time to prepare, get excited for the summer ahead, and learn who will be joining us in Sebago in a few short months. Each summer at Camp O-AT-KA is unique, and I am excited to see what summer 2026 has in store for all of us.”
