Basketball Camps in the Philadelphia Area
The city of Philadelphia, home to the first NBA franchise, the 76ers, has been a basketball city for generations. The 76ers have hosted stars like Wilt Chamberlain and Charles Barkley, and have inspired hundreds of Philadelphia kids to play. Boys and girls interested in improving their skills have several Philadelphia basketball camps to choose from:
sixer camps
In operation for over thirty years, the Sixers Camps are the best known of the Philadelphia basketball camps. Current and former 76ers players regularly visit the camp, and the young participants learn from the pros and participate in traditional camp activities at their overnight facility in the Poconos. Sixers camps are open to boys and girls. Campers can also enjoy boating, swimming, batting cages, volleyball, and other fun activities.
Phil Martelli Basketball Camp
Phil Martelli was named the Associated Press Coach of the Year in 2004 when his Saint Joseph’s Hawks went undefeated in the NCAA regular season, the most recent team to do so. Now Martelli offers children ages 8 to 17 the opportunity to stay in college and hone their skills. The camp features guest lectures as well as individual and team competitions, and campers stay on campus in air-conditioned dorms under supervision.
Future Star Camps
Future Stars is another organization that specializes in Philadelphia basketball camps and offers a special overnight camp just for girls. As head coach at Immaculata College, Future Stars founder Cathy Rush led her teams to five national championships. The camp staff includes many of the best female varsity basketball players.
Herb Magee Basketball Camps
Herb Magee, one of the top coaches in the country, has amassed 41 seasons as a coach at the University of Philadelphia and offers a week-long camp each summer for boys and girls in the Philadelphia area who want to improve their shooting skills. The camp focuses on small group instruction, with a high instructor-to-camper ratio.
City of Philadelphia Day Camps
Many Philadelphia basketball camps are evening programs. For those looking for a day camp experience, the city of Philadelphia offers basketball camps Monday through Friday during the summer. The city’s basketball camp provides lunches and snacks for campers, as well as a report on each individual’s progress as an athlete.
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a basketball camp. Be sure to research the reputation of the camp and staff, as well as the goals and schedule of the camp. The cost, location, and length of the program can also help make the right choice. Don’t be afraid to contact staff with detailed questions or to request a tour of an overnight campground. A good basketball camp provides the tools to improve your game, as well as an exciting week.
