Hey, Campers! my name is Mitchell Knights and I'm from the East Coast of New Zealand in sunny Hawkes Bay. Since 2016 roughly six years ago I've been working with kids in the water as a lifeguard and swim coach. Coming from a small island surrounded by water at the bottom of the world, teaching kids the importance of being safe in the water and knowing their swimming fundamentals is something that is extremely important to me. In this time span, I've worked with kids of various ages and cultural backgrounds and helped them gain a tremendous amount of self-confidence in the water and in themselves. Having been given the opportunity to be a part of this amazing team in 2023 is something that I'm tremendously looking forward to and means the world to me. Self-reliance, the challenge of high adventure and just being there for the boys as a role model and more importantly a friend will be an absolute privilege.
What are you most proud of/biggest achievement in life so far?:
My biggest achievement in life thus far is being able to see the growth and confidence of the kids I've coached and lifeguarded in the water. Nothing for me has ever come close to seeing a smile on a kid's face after they've achieved something they worked really hard for. Being a small part of that means a lot to me. What is your favorite hobby/sport/thing to do during your free time?:
Coming from a family of athletes, my favorite sport is water polo as I've played from a very young age and continue to spend a lot of my free time still coaching and playing. However, when I'm not at the pool you can always find me at the beach or in the middle of a hike! What is your favorite thing about working with children?:
My favourite thing about working with children is helping them achieve their goals. Whether that be in the water or that nothing is impossible by having a good attitude and willingness to listen and learn! What impact are you most excited to make this year at CCB?:
Being a part of the Wake/Surf crew at CCB, I'm looking forward to helping the boys achieve their own goals and try new things that may be out of their comfort zone in a safe environment. What goal or camp philosophy do you really want your campers to learn this summer?:
Self-confidence is something that I feel every kid should have after leaving Camp Carolina. Whether that be trying something different or making new friends is always something to look out for as a camp counselor. Making sure that every boy is taken care of and no one feels left out.