The whistle blows, the ball is tossed in the air, and the game begins. It’s time for the annual, highly-anticipated “Under the Lights” basketball game, in which Owego’s oldest campers face off against their Pine Forest counterparts. It’s a rivalry years in the making, with lots of big talk from both sides. Today, at precisely 3:30 (which technically was under the sunlight) the game tipped off on Chadwin Court at Pine Forest. Owego’s 11th graders not playing in the game went along for the ride, cheering on their friends as they attempted to defeat the Pine Forest team. Though our spectators were greatly outnumbered by the home team’s, our campers exhibited a massive amount of spirit and support for the Owego players.
The game was a nail-biter, with each team trading the lead until the final moments. As the final buzzer sounded, the boys in blue shouted with joy. The final score? 32 to 29, Owego wins!!! It was an impressive team effort, and the reward was sweet. For the second straight year, the Owego boys’ 16U basketball team claimed victory!
Tonight, our “Old Timers” gathered for a ceremony to honor those campers and staff who have spent seven or more years at camp. Everyone currently in his third summer and up was invited to the celebration, which involves the newly-minted Old Timers telling their most memorable stories from their years growing up at camp. Following the ceremony, the group shuffled into the dining hall for the Old Timers’ ice cream bash, lovingly dubbed the “Ding-a-Ling.” Campers lined up at the kitchen window while key staff scooped ice cream. Vanilla or chocolate? Easy decision. Toppings? Much more difficult. Hot fudge, whipped cream, sprinkles, whatever you desire. A good time was had by all.
Today’s events honored our oldest campers and most loyal Owegans. These campers grew up at camp, looking forward to the day when they would get the chance to play in the “Under the Lights” basketball game. They patiently awaited their third summer, when they would finally learn the secret of the mysterious “Ding-a-Ling.” The Owego brotherhood is one with a long history of traditions, where boys grow into young men and earn the privileges that come with that growth.
