Home to the first NBA franchise, the 76ers, the city of Philadelphia 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:
sixers camps
In operation for over thirty years, Sixers Camps is the best known of Philadelphia’s basketball camps. Players and former 76ers players regularly visit the camp, and participating youth learn from the pros and participate in traditional camp activities at its 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’s Basketball Camp
Phil Martelli was named the Associated Press Coach of the Year for 2004 when his Saint Joseph’s Hawks went undefeated in the NCAA regular season, the most recent team to do so. Now Martelli offers kids ages 8 to 17 the chance 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 dormitories 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 the head coach at Immaculata College, Cathy Rush, founder of Future Stars, led her teams to five national championships. The camp staff includes many of the top basketball players at the women’s college level.
Herb Magee Basketball Camps
One of the best coaches in the country, Herb Magee has racked up 41 seasons as a coach at Philadelphia University 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.
Philadelphia City 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 lunch 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 camp’s goals and itinerary. The cost, location, and length of the program can also help make the right decision. Don’t be afraid to contact staff to ask detailed questions or to request a tour of an overnight camp facility. A good basketball camp provides the tools to improve your game, as well as an exciting week.
