LEWISTON, Maine -- Boys and girls between the ages of eight and 15 can participate in a wide range of athletic activities in the Bates College Sports Camp, an overnight and day camp offered on the campus from June 30-July 12 (Session I) and July 14-26 (Session II).

Spots remain available for overnight and day campers for Session I and for overnight campers in Session II. Youngsters need not be exceptional athletes to attend camp, nor do they need to be beginners, as each year the camp enrolls many who hope to play on school teams. Only an enjoyment of physical activity and a willingness to try new things are required.

The camp day will provide six activity periods, including instructional swim. Qualified instructors will teach skills as well as rules for each sport. Groups are small -- the average size is 15 --and organized by age and accompanied by a counselor and junior counselor throughout the day.

Activities change daily, ensuring variety and broad exposure. A regular free-choice period allows campers to concentrate on areas of special preference. Typical offerings include aerobics, basketball, field hockey, fitness, floor hockey, football, elementary games, kickball, lacrosse, martial arts, orienteering, Outward-Bound-style challenges, racquetball, rock climbing, soccer, softball, speedball, swimming, team handball, tennis, ultimate frisbee and volleyball.