Bringing Back a Classic

The sun was beginning to dip behind the trees when the Front Field at GRP burst into life, cackles of laughter and anticipation bouncing off the hills. After being absent from the Evening Program lineup for a while, Capture the Flag made its exhilarating return during our 3-week session—and wow, it came back with a bang. From the moment the announcement was made, the energy surged. Campers were absolutely buzzing, strategizing with their cabins, decking themselves out in athletic attire, and gearing up with the kind of intensity that turns friendly competition into legendary camp lore.

The game itself unfolded like a scene from a classic summer adventure: sprints through the grass, daring flag rescues, stealth moves through the crowd, and epic chases. But what made it even more remarkable was the safety that accompanied all that action. No injuries. Just pure, adrenaline-filled fun where everyone respected boundaries and played fair. It was proof that you don’t need chaos for excitement—you just need community, care, and a shared sense of purpose.

And this wasn’t just a game. Capture the Flag acted as a kind of glue—bringing everyone closer in a way that few other activities can. Campers cheered each other on, celebrated clever tactics, and turned near misses into hilarious tales retold during Rose-Bud-Thorn. Every participant, whether flying through the field or standing guard with wide-eyed focus, had a vital role to play. The shared experience forged a deeper bond among campers that was felt long after the game ended.

Now, days later, that night still reverberates through camp. Our group feels tighter, more connected, and wildly proud of what we pulled off together. Capture the Flag reminded us that it’s not just tradition—it’s transformation. It showed how collective joy, trust, and a whole lot of running can create lasting memories and bring out the best in everyone.

If this is what happens when a classic returns, we might just have to bring it back again.