"Camping Across the Country" is a series of stories and experiences of the varsity cheer and dance staff as they travel around the U.S. to teach summer camps. They have fun, meet new friends, and make memories that last a lifetime. Join them on their journey!

NCA CAMP AT SMU!

NCA STAFF: Michelle

LOCATION: Dallas, TX

Hi! My name is Michelle Phythian. I'm excited to share some of my favorite camp memories with you from NCA camp at Southern Methodist University!

Michelle and one of her buddy teams at SMU camp!

There is no better feeling than driving onto the campus at SMU and walking into our temporary home for the week, Lloyd Hall! The SMU campus is one of my favorite locations because of the gorgeous views. Every day we take a scenic walk to the dining hall and get to soak in the beauty of the university.

I had so much fun with all of the teams that I got to work with at camp! I was lucky to get a lot of one-on-one time with the varsity teams from Richardson High School and Cypress Falls High School. I loved sharing my passion for cheerleading with these teams while seeing how unified both programs are. 

​Michelle and the RHS Varsity team!

My favorite part of this camp is getting to see the unity from cheerleaders of schools that come from the same districts although they may be sports rivals. Cheerleading is a sport that brings those of different walks of life together, and that is the most powerful reason why my love runs so deeply for this sport.

Every camp experience is different, and what makes each experience so great is the teams! My buddies at SMU were not only a talented group of ladies and gentlemen but also one of the most respectful groups I've had the pleasure of working with. I had the best time at SMU camp this summer and can't wait to see the teams there again next year!

- NCA Michelle

Check back next week for more summer camp blogs from Varsity camp instructors!