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We were blessed with another sunny, beautiful day day for the final day of Color War 2021. Day four was full of awesome competition, wonderful memories and indescribable fun. The campers poured their heart into every event, knowing that this Color War was a very close race and that every moment, every effort and every point mattered.

This year during Color War, our cabins ate each meal as cabin groups rather than splitting up into teams. I really loved this change (due to COVID protocols) because this year I’ve seen the bond of each cabin only get stronger in spite of the division of teams. This Color War has been filled with unity, teamwork, encouragement and love, regardless of teams. I am so grateful for the love and friendship that took priority in the hearts and minds of our campers and staff. It was such an amazing four days of competition, and I loved every minute of it!

RD Wins:

  • Climbing
  • Kayak Relay (N2)
  • Kayak Relay (N1)
  • Bombardment (N1)
  • Bombardment (N3)
  • The Bake Off
  • Canoeing
  • Pictionary
  • Pool Volleyball

WK Wins:

  • Rock Paper Scissors
  • Uno
  • Connect Four
  • Tetherball
  • Thread the Needle
  • Lake Road Carry
  • Crossnet
  • Grand Prize Game
  • Poker

The final program of Color War is a one act play that is written, directed and cast by the staff. The campers have to memorize lines, help build the sets and attend play practice, while competing in events.This year’s theme was a quote from Marvel…”No mistakes. No do-overs. Look out for each other. This is the fight of our lives.”

The plays for both teams were fantastic. As someone with a background in theatre, I am in awe every year that the teams put on such thoughtful and creative programs. The set design, the costumes, the humor…it is the perfect way to end a very busy and competitive four days at camp. As I sat and watched these campers perform for the entire camp, I reflected on the amazing achievements of our campers and staff over the past four days. I am so very proud of each and every one of them for their hard work and dedication to their team.

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Congratulations to both teams for an amazing four days of competition, heart and hard work. My heart is always heavy when we announce the winner of Color War each year. I hate to see our campers sad and disappointed after all they gave to their team. In today’s world too often we want everyone to be a winner, or for everyone to get a trophy, but that waters down the life-lessons that impact the growth in our children. Truth is, you don’t always win. You will make mistakes. There are often no do-overs, so it’s up to you to keep fighting. There may be someone who performs better than you do that deserves the win, the position on the team or the job promotion. These are hard lessons to learn, but these are important truths in life.

At Camp Highlander we are teaching our campers through Color War that success does not depend on winning. For the past four days, we have learned that success is found in giving your best, persevering through challenges, celebrating others who achieve their goals, working as a team, being an encourager, laughing at yourself and overcoming your failures. True success is yours even in defeat, so take pride in the fight and embrace the outcome.

These campers and staff gave the fight of their lives to Color War 2021, but the victory went to the White Knights. I was proud of the campers and staff who embraced the outcome as I watched them exchange hugs between cabinmates, high fives between teammates and congratulate the winners…true, genuine success in victory and defeat. Four days of battle, and in the end it was worth it all!

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