As part of the Polish-Ukrainian integration program initiated by YMCA Europe in 2022, the camp gathered between the 2nd and 8th of February 2025, 25 young martial artists from MONSTERS club in Warsaw, offering them a unique opportunity to refine their skills, embrace new challenges, and connect with one another.
During the first week of winter holiday in a professional gym, they could refine their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. Training sessions were carefully designed to be delivered to different skill levels, ensuring that each participant could develop their individual abilities. For some of the MONSTERS, this was also the time to take their belt promotion exams.
For the older participants, additional sessions were organized to focus on building strength and endurance. Meanwhile, everyone had the chance to test their skills in a table tennis tournament, which concluded with thrilling finals and awards for the top players.
Winter sports were also an essential part of the program. Beginners had the chance to learn skiing under the supervision of licensed instructors, while more advanced skiers took on the challenging slopes of Nosal to refine their downhill techniques. Other outdoor activities at the foot of the mountains provided a fantastic opportunity to improve physical fitness, strengthen the body, and push past mental barriers.
Despite the cold season, water activities were also on the agenda. A visit to the Aquapark and Thermal Baths in Zakopane allowed participants to unwind after intense training sessions, enjoying the warm thermal waters, pools, slides, and other exciting attractions.
The camp also offered a chance to deepen knowledge about the region. This time, participants visited the modern Nature Education Center, where they explored the unique natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains through workshops, presentations, and educational games.
English language activities were full of fun and creativity. Kids took part in interactive lessons, some of which were led by a native speaker from YMCA USA, Kimberley Masucci.
Her presence provided a unique opportunity for the participants to practice their language skills in real-life situations while also learning about children’s YMCA camps in America. Games and contests (with prizes, of course!) added extra motivation to actively engage in learning.
Evenings at the camp were far from boring. Engaging multimedia presentations provided useful knowledge and preparation for upcoming activities. One night, participants enjoyed a special “Monsters” movie screening with popcorn, making for a cozy and relaxing evening.
The final night was particularly memorable: a traditional bonfire feast at the highlander tavern “Kurniawa,” where everyone got to taste authentic fire-roasted sausages and immerse themselves in the local mountain culture.
Once again, Zakopane proved to be the perfect place for such a rich and diverse program. We hope that all participants returned home full of energy and positive experiences. We are already planning next MONSTERS camps, which are not only about sports training but also play a vital role in shaping young people’s character in a safe and supportive environment.
