The sun-kissed state of Florida, sandwiched between the salty Atlantic and the gently whispering Gulf of Mexico, is a paradise where kids don't just build sandcastles, they also smash and serve volleyballs. In this land of orange groves and coral reefs, volleyball is more than just a sport, it's a way of life, as essential as sunscreen and as exciting as a rollercoaster ride in Orlando's fun-filled theme parks. Meet our hero, Volleyball Vinny, a funky flamingo with a fabulous feathered fro! Vinny's not your average bird. Oh no, this flamingo can flip, flop, and fly for every volleyball that sails under the everglade skies. He is the self-appointed coach, referee, and cheerleader for the volleyball-loving kids of Florida. A typical day might see Vinny squawking his signature "flaminGO" cheer as kids leap like leopards and dive like dolphins, their laughter interspersed with the rhythmic thud of volleyballs. The sun might kiss their noses red, but nothing stops these tenacious youngsters. Whether it's the hot sandy beaches of Miami, the vibrant parks of Tampa, or the tropical playgrounds of the Keys, you'll find them there, mirroring Vinny's footwork (or should we say, web-work?). They're a lively bunch, these kids. Some say it's the Vitamin D, others say it's the orange juice, but we know the truth. It's the magic of Volleyball Vinny. With a wink of his beady eye and a flick of his pink plumage, he fills them with a zesty zeal that's as infectious as a giggling gator. They don't just play volleyball, they live it, breathe it, dream it. So, if you ever find yourself in sunny Florida, listen out for the cheerful cacophony of kids at play, and remember, it's not just a game, it's a Volleyball Vinny adventure!
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
Welcome to Sports Edge, Northeast Florida's premier indoor sports facility! With 75,000 square feet of space, our facility offers more than just a place to play. Sports Edge offers a range of sporting and special interest events for athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators. Whether you’re looking for a tournament or just a place to practice, Sports Edge is the perfect place for you. Since opening in 2016, Sports Edge has become a destination for families, athletes, businesses, and guests from all over Northeast Florida. We host over 50 events each year, with thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators in attendance. Our facility is equipped with the latest in training and sports technology, making it the ideal destination for athletes of all levels. Come experience the Sports Edge difference!
Coach Kanani is an incredible asset to the Jacksonville community. He has brought his wealth of knowledge and experience as a multiple-sport, world-class athlete to the area. His professional basketball career spanned 14 years, beginning in Africa and then progressing to various countries including the USA. He has also played table tennis in the Olympics and international soccer as a youth. His involvement in the Las Vegas Summer Basketball League has enabled him to develop relationships with NBA coaches and former NBA players. Since coming to Jacksonville, Coach Kanani has been active in youth basketball, volleyball, and soccer. He previously served as Sports Coordinator at the YMCA in Arlington, and developed "Little Hoopers" programs for children aged 3-12, as well as specialized clinics, camps, and league play programs for young adults aged 13-20. He is also active in AAU basketball and volleyball programs at the state and national levels, and has strong relationships with Florida high school and college coaches. Coach Kanani is an invaluable resource for the Jacksonville community.
At our university, the Field House was recently completed in October 2015 as a total renovation of the Aquatic Center. The $5.1 million, 26,000 sq. ft. facility is located conveniently between the Student Wellness Complex and Arena on the north end of campus. The Field House provides an excellent space for our university's Intramural Sports program, where all indoor sports take place. It is also the hub for informal recreation such as basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer, badminton and pickleball. Students can take advantage of the Field House and its many recreational activities for hours of fun and enjoyment. Our university's Field House is a great resource for students and the community. It is a place for both competitive sports and recreational activities. With the completion of the renovation, the Field House has become a true asset to our university and a great addition to the campus.
The Department of Recreation and Wellness's mission is to create an environment for the UNF community that inspires healthy lifestyle choices through valuable programs and services while supporting academic success.
The Department of Recreation and Wellness's mission is to create an environment for the UNF community that inspires healthy lifestyle choices through valuable programs and services while supporting academic success.