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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

2025

MAY 8 - 14, 2025 | PAGE 7

SUMMER

M P S A C &

Pages 8 - 11

PAGE 8 | MAY 8 - 14, 2025

CA MPS & SCHO O LS

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Forge Camps Forge Camps is a transformative summer program in Northern Virginia designed to prepare rising high schoolers for the challenges ahead by fostering fitness, confidence, and essential life skills. Founded by Marco Ferrara, a Virginia Tech graduate with a degree in Business Information Technology, the camp emphasizes the development of young men through structured workouts and hands-on workshops.

Each day at Forge Camps begins with morning workouts aimed at building physical strength and endurance. These sessions are followed by development workshops that focus on communication, leadership, personal management, health and wellness, and goal-setting. The afternoon activities are designed to reinforce the morning lessons, providing practical applications of the skills learned.

The camp’s curriculum is structured to instill a sense of responsibility and selfdiscipline in participants. By engaging in activities that challenge both the body and mind, campers learn to navigate the complexities of adolescence with resilience and purpose. The supportive environment encourages young men to step out of their comfort zones, fostering personal growth and self-confidence.

Forge Camps’ commitment to holistic development ensures that participants leave the program with a renewed sense of self and a toolkit of skills to navigate high school and beyond. Through a combination of physical training, mentorship, and life skills education, Forge Camps empowers young men to forge their paths with confidence and integrity.

ness and fun through gymnastics. Their summer camp program offers a blend of gymnastics instruction, free play, arts and crafts, and games. With options for half-day and full-day sessions, the camp caters to children aged 4 and up, ensuring activities are age-appropriate and engaging.

KIPS prides itself on its team of USAG-certified coaches, early education teachers, and athletes who create a nurturing environment for all skill levels. Each week of camp features a unique theme, adding variety and excitement to the experience. The facility also offers mini-camps, school’s out camps, and themed parents’ night out events throughout the year.

With a focus on building confidence, coordination, and a love for movement, KIPS Family Gymnastics provides a comprehensive program that supports children’s physical and emotional development. The camp’s structured yet fun-filled approach ensures that children not only learn gymnastics skills but also develop social skills and self-esteem.

Parents appreciate the camp’s commitment to safety, inclusivity, and personalized attention. The supportive atmosphere encourages children to challenge themselves, celebrate their achievements, and develop a lifelong appreciation for physical activity. Through its engaging programs and dedicated staff, KIPS Family Gymnastics continues to be a trusted destination for families seeking quality gymnastics instruction and summer fun.

KIPS Family Gymnastics Located in Falls Church, Virginia, KIPS Family Gymnastics is a family-oriented facility dedicated to promoting fit-

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

CA MPS & SCHO O LS

MARCH 6 - 12, 2025 | PAGE 9

Summer Camp Inspires Learning, Friendship, and Fun

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Pinecrest School Pavilion Summer Camp Pinecrest School in Annandale, Virginia, hosts the Pinecrest Pavilion Summer Camp, an award-winning program recognized for its commitment to creativity, exploration, and learning. Running from June 16 to August 8, the camp offers one-week sessions filled with indoor and outdoor activities, arts and crafts, STEM experiments, and nature walks.

Designed for children from preschool through rising sixth grade, the camp offers both half-day and fullday programs, with flexible aftercare options available until 6 p.m.

The 2025 summer lineup includes new specialty workshops that allow campers to delve deeper into interests like robotics, drama, coding, and the natural sciences.

The camp is led by seasoned educators and childcare professionals, many of whom serve on Pinecrest School’s faculty during the school

year. They bring a deep understanding of developmental milestones and learning strategies that ensure every child is engaged and thriving. With a focus on small group instruction and hands-on learning, Pinecrest Pavilion creates a nurturing environment that encourages campers to ask questions, take risks, and develop new skills.

Each week is thoughtfully themed to keep content fresh and exciting. From inventors’ labs to wilderness adventures, every session is infused with imagination and inquiry. Campers are invited to explore, collaborate, and express themselves while forming friendships that last well beyond summer.

Pinecrest Pavilion fosters a sense of community, inclusion, and personal growth. Whether a child is participating in a nature hike, designing a science experiment, or enjoying water day in the garden, the program emphasizes respect, curiosity, and joy. The camp continues to be a standout option for families looking for enriching, creative, and flexible summer experiences.

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PAGE 10 | MAY 8 - 14, 2025

CA MPS & SCHO O LS

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Sail into Summer Adventure at Washington Sailing Marina Camp

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Washington Sailing Marina Camp Washington Sailing Marina Camp, located on the banks of the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia, offers an exciting and educational experience for young sailing enthusiasts. Designed for youth ages 8 and up, the weeklong sessions combine handson instruction with waterfront adventure in a safe and supportive environment.

Each session runs Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and introduces students to the fundamentals of sailing, including rigging, steering, safety procedures, and teamwork. Using small boats such as Sunfish and Optis, campers develop independence and problem-solving skills on the water while working collaboratively with their crew.

The camp adheres to the US Sailing curriculum, ensuring that students receive quality

instruction from certified professionals. Staff members are trained in CPR, First Aid, and water safety, and many have backgrounds in competitive sailing and maritime education.

Instructors foster a culture of encouragement and resilience, adapting lesson plans based on

experience levels and weather conditions.

Beyond technique, campers gain confidence through challenges, develop friendships, and learn how to respect both nature and their fellow sailors.

Activities such as knot tying, capsize drills, and navigation

games enrich the experience and reinforce water safety.

In cases of inclement weather, indoor lessons cover nautical terminology, wind theory, and team-building games. This ensures continuity and keeps spirits high even off the water.

The camp’s scenic setting

Great Falls Rugby Summer Camp The Great Falls Rugby Summer Camp offers an outstanding introduction to rugby for young athletes in Northern Virginia. Open to boys and girls aged 4 to 18, the program focuses on fun, fundamentals, and fitness in a positive and structured environment. Hosted at Leo Santaballa Field in Great Falls, the camp runs from June 16–18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Younger participants engage in Coed Tag Rugby, a non-contact version of the sport that builds agility, coordination, and teamwork. Older players are introduced to tackle techniques in a safe and supportive setting. All drills are devel-

allows young sailors to enjoy one of the area’s most beautiful natural environments.

Whether it’s a camper’s first time setting sail or a return for a more advanced course, the Washington Sailing Marina Camp delivers a memorable and skill-building summer.

opmentally appropriate and designed to promote confidence, sportsmanship, and enjoyment.

The coaching staff includes certified professionals with USA Rugby credentials, many of whom have national and international playing experience. The coaches provide individualized attention and mentorship, emphasizing character as much as competition.

Campers are grouped by age and skill level, allowing returning players to refine their abilities while first-time athletes learn the game at their own pace. Activities include passing and running drills, game simulations, and teambuilding exercises that stress inclusion and communication.

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

CA MPS & SCHO O LS

MAY 8 - 14, 2025 | PAGE 11

Kickstart Your Summer Fun at Love the Ball Soccer Camp

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Love the Ball Soccer Camp Love the Ball Soccer Camp brings high-energy, imagination-fueled soccer instruction to Falls Church, Virginia.

Designed for kids ages 4 to 14, the camp introduces children to the joys of soccer through fantasy-based themes like pirates, space explorers, and superheroes. These playful storylines are woven into every drill and activity, ensuring campers stay engaged and excited.

Each camp session includes technical skills, movement exercises, and small-sided games that build balance, coordination, and teamwork. Sessions are available in both half-day and full-day formats, making it easy for families to find the right fit.

The coaching staff consists of certified, passionate instructors who focus on encouragement, effort, and creativity.

Love the Ball is commit-

ted to making soccer enjoyable for children of all skill levels. Whether a camper is just starting or looking to improve, they’ll find a supportive environment where learning is fun and achievement is celebrated.

Parents love the inclusive atmosphere and community feel. Many sessions incorporate family participation, with opportunities for parents to join in warm-ups or cheer from the sidelines. The camp also offers themed dress-up days, skills competitions, and award ceremonies to boost morale and recognize effort.

The program emphasizes core values such as respect, confidence, and kindness, ensuring that children grow as teammates and individuals. Beyond developing athletes, Love the Ball helps raise happy, confident kids who enjoy being active and connected.

With flexible scheduling, dynamic themes, and an enthusiastic staff, Love the Ball Soccer Camp stands out as a go-to summer destination for young players in Falls Church.

Learn to Sail

WAshington Sailing Marina adult Lessons & Youth Camps

Questions? email amy@sharethewind.com

Weekly camp sessions ages 8-15 Adult weekend lessons Sat. & Sun. 9:30-3:30 Adult weeknight lessons Private lessons

Learn more & Register