West Virginia University’s National Youth Sports Program has served thousands of campers, staff and volunteers throughout its 25 year history. Current campers and NYSP alumni will celebrate the milestone on July 17 from noon – 1 p.m. at WVU’s Shell Building.

WVU’s College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences hosts and organizes the camp. Through the determination of CPASS, the camp has remained free of charge and open to all 10- to 16-year-olds in Monongalia County and surrounding areas.

The federal money that started NYSP evaporated earlier this decade but, at WVU, the camp has thrived and expanded its mission to better serve the community.

NYSP stands as a daily exhibition of WVU’s land grant mission at work as grateful families route their children – either by free buses provided by the Monongalia County Board of Education or of their own means—to WVU’s Shell Building.

Along with physical activity, campers engage in projects like building and launching model rockets. They listen to messages about social issues such as bullying, the dangers of drugs and alcohol and other health and hygiene tips. The campers and their families also attend a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game each year, including free tickets and transportation.

All former campers, staff, board members and sponsors are invited to attend the 25th anniversary celebration on July 17.

Cake will be served. The ceremony will also include awards and recognition for staff and there will be presentations from some of the campers.

For more information and to register for the celebration, call 304-293-0859 or visit: http://nysp.wvu.edu/25years.

—WVU—

7/02/12

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CONTACT: Kim Cameon, WVU CPASS
(304) 293-0827