Wreckers’ Retreat: Competitive, Challenging, Fun

The Staples boys varsity packed plenty of activities into less than 48 hours.

Their pre-season retreat at Camp KenMont in Kent included tons of competitive activities — and an equal amount of team bonding. It was a chance for the team to share adventures, learn more about each other — and do it far away from Westport.

And all without cellphones.

Coach Russell Oost-Lievense divided the players into 4 groups. Each was led by a Staples coach: himself, Harry Ocampo, Elisee Joseph and Chris O’Dell. Bruno Guiduli — a defender on Staples’ 2021 state semifinalist squad — was the judge.

Competition began immediately, with 2 cabins vying to see who could make their beds the quickest.

Saturday began with handball (won by Elisee and Harry’s teams). Half then went to archery; the other half to the ropes course.

Lunch was followed by a dodgeball tournament (won by Chris’s squad).

Water relays and volleyball were next. Russ’s team captured the volleyball; Chris’s side seemed to win the swimming.

After dinner came kickball, under the lights. After 9 grueling innings, Chris and Russ pulled out a 30-7 (or something like that) win.

Next up: a team talk, focusing on goals for the year (and how to achieve them).

The final event was a firepit with s’mores by the lake, with story-telling and more.

Russell asked Cormac Mulvey — who will wear the prestigious #15 jersey this year, honoring Preston Hirten — if he would like to become the third Staples captain this season. He happily accepted.

The team stayed until the fire went out, then headed back to the cabins for lights out.

Sunday began with a morning jog and stretch before breakfast. They gathered for a final team talk, before packing up and returning home.

Inspired by the retreat, the Wreckers are ready for the 2024 season. Opening day is Wednesday (September 4): 4 p.m. vs. New Canaan, on the Wakeman turf.