Tariq Washington, left, and Zion Smith after taking the plunge from a 40-foot-tall tree.
Text by Reggie Mays, Jr., program coordinator
Photos and captions by Jeffrey Cowitt, program director
On Tuesday, the young men of The Bridge Golf Foundation enjoyed a day of educational fun at Club Getaway in Kent, CT.
With the help of Club Getaway staff members Jen and Marta, they tackled several difficult challenges that tested their mental and physical prowess. The various games and activities in this camp-style setting were a great hands-on way to put their STEM and Character Education lessons to the test.
For the first challenge, they strapped into harnesses, climbed a 40-foot tree and jumped while attached to a bungee cord. Most were eager to try, but a few were understandably apprehensive. After a pep talk from their peers, most of our guys faced their fears and went for it. Those at the top of the tree who looked down at the landing area and questioned their decision were inspired to take the risk by the cheers from their Bridge brothers.
Zion Smith, one of the guys who had difficulty with the challenge, later said: “I learned to trust myself during a challenging situation.” There was no shortage of grit, confidence and determination on display as our young men flew among the trees.
They continued to display their skills and intellect as they completed a series of puzzles (see below). The Club Getaway staff members were impressed with their communication, problem solving, teamwork and intelligence. It was clear that our students have been paying close attention to the lessons we teach every day at the Learning Center.
Club Getaway was a fun trip, but it also reinforced a crucial lesson. With determination, teamwork and intelligence, our young men can overcome any challenge life presents.
Making a plan for the Whale Watch, a platform that all of our young men had to stand on and balance for 10 seconds.
Putting their plan into action on the Whale Watch.
On the Friction Bridge, our students had 20 seconds to study a drawing before assembling the pieces to match.
For the Giant’s Thumb, the group had to work together to move the tire off the pillar. Neither the tire nor their bodies could touch the pillar at all.
For All Aboard, the group had to stand on a platform for 5 seconds without touching the ground or anything on the ground.