Coble Ski Camp Leaves Fun in its Wake
coble ski camp, recreation, water skiing,
Summer camp is a recreational rite of passage for many children. And in Harnett County, a world-class camp experience serves as the high-water mark.
Coble Ski Camp in Lillington is the only exclusive water skiing camp on the east coast, and one of only a handful in the world. The Coble camp experience leaves an impact on participants beyond improved skiing skills.
“The whole experience is a bonding experience,” says April Coble, lead instructor for the camp. “The people who come here usually stay in touch when they leave.”
Coble, who also coaches the U.S. Junior World Championship Team, is considered the best female water skier in the world. She has owned and operated the camp with her family for the past 14 years.
Because the Coble family is so closely linked with top-class skiers and instructors, they are able to offer instruction that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Kids love the camp. They finish the experience with improved skills and improved confidence.
“You learn to believe in yourself,” she says. “It’s a real confidence builder.”
Combine a feeling of success, the fun of skiing and the scenery surrounding the beautiful, 250-acre North Carolina lake – and an unforgettable experience is created for children.
“We don’t hear the sounds of a busy highway,” Coble says. “We are just surrounded by lakes, trees and clean air.”
Though the all-inclusive camp primarily focuses on water skiing, children have a chance to enjoy a traditional camping experience that includes nightly activities ranging from bowling to ice cream parties.
A typical day begins with warm-ups and land lessons. From there, children are treated to private lessons, with each child having a chance to ski twice a day for four days.
“We totally indulge ourselves in water skiing and wakeboarding,” Coble says.
Elsewhere in Harnett County, the investment in parks and recreation by the county’s five municipalities means an endless array of recreational opportunities.
“Recreation opportunities for children promote wholesome family living and socially desirable character, which enhances the community,” says Alice Powell, Harnett County Recreation director.
Some local highlights include Angier’s Jack Marley Park, which was refurbished in early 2008 with two new playgrounds‚ one for ages 2 to 6, and the other for ages 6 to 12. Fifteen minutes away, in the town of Erwin, a new skateboard park gives kids a chance to develop those skills in a safe environment.
Story by Brandon Lowe
