Deep in the heart of the good ol' state of North Carolina, where the sweet tea flows like water, the barbecue is a religion, and the majestic Appalachian Mountains give a charming high-five to the azure sky, a group of sprightly young lads and lasses are stirring up a storm. This storm, my dear friends, isn't your everyday North Carolina hurricane. No, siree! It's a mighty whirlwind of power serves, smashing returns, and superhuman leaps. Meet the volleyball vanguard of North Carolina's youth. They may range from the size of a pint-sized pickle to a towering totem pole, but don't be fooled. These kids could give professional volleyball players a run for their money. They spike the ball with the ferocity of a hungry lion pouncing on a steak, and their agile moves could make a cheetah sob with jealousy. Among these volleyball virtuosos is an extraordinary character, known far and wide as "Tumbleweed Ted". Now, Ted isn't your regular kid. With a shock of fiery red hair that resembles a tumbleweed in the summer, freckles that could give the night sky a complex, and an infectious grin that could outshine the sun, Ted is a sight to behold. But what truly sets him apart is his uncanny knack of somersaulting across the court to save the ball, earning him his quirky name. Tumbleweed Ted and his volleyball crew are the superheroes of North Carolina, turning the volleyball courts into their personal playground. With a volley here and a spike there, these kids prove that North Carolina isn't just about serene beaches and mouth-watering hush puppies. It's also about spirited kids who serve up some serious volleyball action.
Read morebest volleyball programs in Raleigh, NC


Nestled in 178 acres of lush woodland is a serene escape from the city, a place fondly known as Camp Swamp. This overnight Christian camp, located just two hours east of bustling Atlanta, has been serving as a peaceful retreat since 1992. We like to think of it as our own "little slice of heaven," offering a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, and inviting people to reconnect with nature and their spirituality. Our primary offering is a week-long summer camp, but we've expanded over the years to include more than just summer fun. As part of our mission to support families and churches, we now also host three family camps throughout the year, as well as four parent/child retreats. These events offer a chance for families to bond, parents to connect with their children, and individuals to grow in their faith. Moreover, our facilities are not exclusive to our organized events. Camp Swamp also offers rentals to schools, churches, universities, sports teams, and even business groups. Whether you're planning a camp, a retreat, or a team-building excursion, our serene setting and well-equipped facilities provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
Situated in the vibrant Triangle region, New Life Camp offers a breathtaking 72-acre wooded oasis. For over 70 years, it has been a place of adventure, excitement, belonging and spiritual growth. Whether you’re looking for summer camp experiences, year-round activities for churches, homeschoolers or sports teams, or simply a place to connect with nature and nurture your faith, New Life Camp has something for everyone. Through the years, the camp has been committed to sharing the love of Jesus Christ with all who visit, and that mission continues today.