This year marks our 17th summer in Madison, and once again Madison Hoop Dreams is proud to offer the most popular youth basketball camp on the shoreline. We will keep our expanded hours and reduced fees; and continue our state-of-the-art computerized video analysis of each camper’s shooting mechanics. With most of my friendly and experienced staff returning and the addition of several vibrant new assistant coaches, we fully expect this summer’s camps to achieve the rating of “Best Ever.” Our focus will be on having lots of fun as we work on shooting and ball handling fundamentals as well as building a solid foundation of basic defensive skills and a spirit of teamwork. If, when you pick up your kids at the end of the day, they are both exhausted and exhilarated, then we figure we’ve done a pretty good job.



In appreciation of the wonderful support I have received from so many of you, and in recognition of the uncertainties in today’s economy, I am keeping our 2004 price schedule. The cost is $195/camper/week and the family price is $175/camper/week.  Extended camp hours will run from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and we hope that every camper takes advantage ofthe extra ½ hour before and after each day’s regular session (9 AM to 3 PM) to work on their shooting skills. I encourage you to register early in order to avoid being placed on awaiting list. Not to worry, deposits are refundable given adequate notice or for emergencies. And if your child wants to attend my camp but your checking account says otherwise, please don’t be bashful.  Put your request for financial assistance in writing to Coach Bill Barker and I’ll make every effort to make this summer one your child will never forget. We also offer an option to pay in installments.



All of us at Madison Hoop Dreams have always believed that your children’s performance on the court is not nearly as important as their production in the classroom. So we will continue to emphasize the value of academic achievement through our special scholar/athlete awards. And, in keeping with our non-profit status, our goal this year is to award ten $1,000 college scholarships to deserving high school seniors.



It wouldn’t be a Madison Hoop Dreams Camp without exciting guest speakers, and this year we’re going to try to outdo ourselves. I am seeking out members of the Boston Celtics as well as our UCONN Huskies to visit with our campers and share their unique perspectives on the game we all love so much.