Every summer, we pick four 16-year old campers to lead our four camp teams. And every spring, we ask their parents to tell us about their son’s years at Deerhorn. We’re kicking off this year’s Look Back at Leaders series with Jack Friedman. He is returning for his 9th year as a camper to lead the Deerhorn Eagles. Here’s what his parents have to say about his time at camp!

 

Jack is the youngest of three boys. His older two brothers (David and Max) had been going to Deerhorn for years. So by the time he was seven, he couldn’t wait to go! I have to admit, I wondered what kind of parents send their seven year old off to camp?! Needless to say, he was smitten. Aside from 2020 he has been a camper every summer since his first in 2017. 2026 will be his 9th year/summer at Deerhorn.

Deerhorn has taught him so many valuable lessons, teamwork, but at the same time independence, having fun playing silly games, and being a great friend, that will stay with him for life. Every summer he looks forward to reconnecting with the friends he has made from all over the country/world. Moreover, he cherishes all of the Deerhorn traditions (of which there are many!).

When he was younger, it was the milk line in the evenings and drink tokens. As he has gotten older, the special days and team events (Chariots of Fire, Puggawaggan, Monkey Relays and campfires) are highlights. Over the last two summers, Jack has blossomed as a team player (leader and follower). Probably his favorite activities at camp are sailing, wakeboarding, riflery and Braveheart. He’s looking forward to sharing his love of Deerhorn with new campers, and having lots of fun!