How to Tell Your Coach You’re Going to Summer Camp—And Why It’s Worth It

You’ve decided to take a month off from traditional sports this summer for a different kind of challenge: attending Teton Valley Ranch Camp. While you’re excited, you wonder how to explain this decision to your coach and teammates. The summer camp experience at TVRC is about more than fun with your friends. Our program is designed to challenge you in meaningful ways while fostering resilience and grit. When you have that important conversation with your coach, here is how you can make the case that spending time at camp will not only be an incredible experience, but will also make you a better athlete, teammate, and competitor in the seasons ahead.

1. Building Confidence Through New Challenges

TVRC builds confidence by pushing campers to try new activities and meet physical challenges. Just like on the field or court, kids at camp experience that rush of accomplishment, but it comes from activities that might be totally new to them—like horseback riding through rugged trails, fly fishing in crystal-clear streams, or even navigating a backpacking route through the Tetons alongside their cabinmates. These challenges encourage a sense of confidence and resilience that transfers back to sports. When you’re confident in rising to new challenges, like summiting a mountain or trying something unfamiliar, stepping up to the demands of a game becomes even more natural. TVRC’s approach, as captured in our Purpose Statement—to “instill passion and respect for the outdoors while building self-confidence, skills, and lasting friendships”—supports this personal growth and brings a fresh sense of determination to every camper.

2. Strengthening Teamwork and Community Spirit

Let your coach know that, just like club sports, camp emphasizes teamwork—but on a new level. At TVRC, teamwork isn’t just about winning; it’s about navigating challenges together. For example, campers work as a team on backpacking trips, helping each other handle difficult sections of the trail, set up camp, and fare through inclement weather and in the Rodeo Arena, during heated team roping competitions. In activities like archery, riflery, and even weekly rodeos, we focus on celebrating each person’s progress and the importance of learning from each other. One of our Core Values is “Answering the Call: Sharing achievement in a supportive community; we summit together” is central to TVRC’s approach. This means that at camp, you’ll strengthen your skills as a team player—listening, supporting, and encouraging others in ways that will absolutely show up on the field or court. When you return, these experiences will make you a stronger, more compassionate teammate, ready to uplift and support your peers in face of any challenge, or competitor, that crosses your path.

3. Building Mental Resilience and Physical Grit

One of the most important aspects of competitive sports is mental toughness. At TVRC, campers develop this resilience in a powerful way through challenging outdoor experiences. Think about riding horseback for hours, enduring a tough hike, or staying patient on a fishing trip—these activities are all about stamina, focus, and persistence. They may not be competitive in the traditional sense, but they require grit and the ability to keep going even when things get tough. Explaining this to a coach can help them see the value of camp. You’ll be building physical and mental resilience that will help you push through tough practices and stay calm under pressure. At TVRC a common phrase is the importance of being “Ready to Ride” where, through challenging adventure, campers cultivate a foundation of grit, gratitude, and generosity and are always prepared to tackle what comes next—qualities that directly translate to being a standout athlete and teammate.

4. Learning to Respect and Care for the Outdoors

Camp is about more than just outdoor activities—it’s about learning a sense of responsibility for the land and wilderness we’re lucky enough to enjoy. TVRC teaches respect for nature and encourages campers to care for the land, from keeping trails clean to understanding wildlife safety. It’s part of our commitment to the value “It’s Our Ranch,” which means learning to treat and take care of our environment with the same respect we have for our teammates and coaches. You can let your coach know that this responsibility instills a discipline and sense of focus that benefits any athlete. Respecting the environment requires mindfulness and attentiveness, qualities that can also make you more focused and intentional on the field. By building this kind of respect at camp, you’re setting yourself up to be an even more thoughtful and attentive player.

5. Embracing the Power of Unplugging

At Teton Valley Ranch Camp, campers spend their time completely unplugged from technology. In today’s world, especially for teenagers, it’s rare to have an opportunity to step away from screens, notifications, and the pressures of social media. TVRC offers a unique chance to truly disconnect and be fully present, focusing on real-life experiences, in-person connections, and personal growth. Without phones, tablets, or constant internet access, campers have the space to live in the moment. They learn to savor what’s happening around them—whether it’s spotting a herd of elk, sharing a laugh around the campfire, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of a mountain sunrise. This “unplugged” experience fosters a deeper level of focus, patience, and mindfulness, qualities that benefit every athlete. Being free from digital distractions allows campers to build genuine, face-to-face friendships and gain a new appreciation for life beyond the screen. You can explain to your coach that returning from a tech-free camp experience helps you develop a renewed ability to focus on what’s in front of you. When you’re not constantly checking your phone, you learn to manage your energy better, giving your full attention to practice, games, and the people around you. This increased focus and mindfulness can be an asset on any team, helping you become a more grounded and attentive teammate.

6. Coming Back with Stories and Memories that Fuel Your Passion

Camp isn’t just a change of pace; it’s a place where lifelong memories and stories are made. From the thrill of participating in a weekly rodeo to the joy of hiking with new friends, TVRC is packed with moments of fun and laughter. Let your coach know that you’ll be bringing back not only a refreshed mindset but a deep well of positive energy and enthusiasm. TVRC experiences stay with campers forever. Spending time in nature or around a campfire, making new friends, and challenging yourself can renew your passion and bring a fresh spark to your training and team spirit. These experiences provide a mental reset, making it easier to return to sports with a clear mind and a positive attitude, which can be especially valuable in competitive settings.

How to Share This Decision with Your Coach

When you talk to your coach, try explaining that this summer camp experience is not just a break from sports, but a new way to grow as a person and athlete. Share with them that Teton Valley Ranch Camp will build your confidence, strengthen your teamwork skills, improve your resilience, and give you a fresh, motivated perspective when you return. You’ll come back as an even stronger competitor with a renewed sense of focus, grit, and gratitude. By explaining the benefits of camp, you can reassure your coach that you’re committed to becoming the best athlete you can be—and that this summer, you’re just choosing a different path to reach that goal.