With all the excitement surrounding Friday’s activities, we all got to the fields early to get things started. After our now-standard circle of prayer, lap around the field and warmup exercises, the kids were ready to begin. On the girls’ side, Coach Sue and Coach Katie had kept the girls in their same groups from the day before, and they began a series of short, 6 minute games against the American players. Joe finally got a chance to put on his official referee uniform and called penalties and fouls during the game. The kids all played hard, especially against their American coaches, showing off all the great skills they had learned during the week.

The girls play hard against Coach Sue!

Challenging Coach Katie
On the boys’ side of the field, the younger players took the field first, showing off their improved stick skills. Then the older boys took over for a full-field game. It was great to see them pass and shoot so well!
After the games, Zach called over everyone to the Gig Rig, which was parked next to the fields. It was time for the Diski Dance contest! He divided the kids up with boys on one side and girls on the other, and the South African and American kids performed the Diski Dance, the official ‘Waka Waka’ dance set to Shakira’s song, which was the anthem of the 2010 World Cup.

Zach gets everyone lined up to perform the Diski Dance
Despite their late-night practices, the Americans still needed help from the South African kids to get all the steps right, but everyone had alot of fun!

The girls demonstrate their version of the Diski Dance!

The boys show off their best 'Waka Waka' movesThe girls take their turn doing the Diski Dance
After the dance contest, the group walked over to Farmers Hall down the road, for a special celebration that included a braai with pap (traditional South African foods), oranges and sodas. Then, there were more dances on stage, and thank-yous and gifts to all the American volunteers. A special thanks was given to “Mama Barb” Cox, who helped establish the South African Lacrosse Project with her sons Kip and Harrison. Zach presented her with a special beaded vuvuzela. After many thank yous and gifts all around, we then presented the kids with their certificates, signed by all the American coaches and volunteers. After a final closing by Zach, the camp was officially concluded and the group stayed around for photos and final hugs.

Zach presents "Mama Barb" with a special vuvuzela!"Mama Tori" with the Xtreme team boys, showing off their certificates.
It’s hard to believe the week is over, and it is also hard to adequately put into words how special this experience has been for all of us. I know the WWS kids had a great time, and I also know that all the American volunteers have all experienced an incredible level of hospitality, camaraderie, teamwork and affection by all we met. Like many experiences in life, this was one in which the teachers surely felt they were the ones who learned the most.

"Mama Tori" with members of the Xtreme team, who proudly show off their certificates!
I know that I have cherished the opportunity to share my love of South Africa and its people with my husband and daughter. I know the trip exceeded their expectations in every way, and it is something we will always remember. I feel sure the others in our group would agree.
I also must admit that I loved being called “Mama Tori’ by 140 kids who were always quick with a smile and a hug!
On behalf of The Wilson Foundation and in particular Joe, Rachel, Haydyn, Bailey, Sarah and Tom, I want to express my deepest thanks to Barb Cox and Kip and Harrison Hart of the South African Lacrosse Project, for the opportunity to work with them on the 2010 camp. And to our friends in South Africa, especially the incredible team at WWS – Mary, Zach, Hendrick, Phinius, Joy, July, Steve, and so many more- we send our heartfelt appreciation for your warm hospitality and incredible organization. Your work and dedication are truly an inspiration.
Finally, a big thanks to Trisha Wilson and the gang at Wilson Associates, and also to the donors who have helped make our participation possible. It has been an unforgettable experience!
Tori Mannes
Executive Director
The Wilson Foundation
July 2010
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