I would like to welcome, everyone, to the first week of what promises to be an extraordinary summer. As I look around me, the energy on this camp property right now is electric, fueled by anticipation, new friendships, and the familiar warmth of a place many of us call home. Every year, we gather under this sky and repeat a promise that defines who we are: ‘Come for a summer, stay for a lifetime.’

When you first hear those words, they might sound like just a catchy phrase. But, I want you to understand how deeply real that promise is. This isn’t just a camp; it is a global community, our summer home. To prove that, you only have to look at the incredible lengths people will go to be a part of this family. This year, we have several staff members, some who are returners to the Realm, who traveled over 10,500 miles across oceans, time zones, and continents just to be with us.

Think about that for a moment. Why would someone journey halfway around the world, leaving behind everything familiar, just to spend a few months in these cabins? They did it because they know that what happens here matters. They know that the connections we forge across these campfires, the resilience we build on the courts, and the kindness we practice every single day create an unbreakable bond.

When we say ‘stay for a lifetime,’ we mean that the lessons you learn here, the confidence you discover, and the people you share these moments with will remain a part of your identity forever, no matter where your life takes you. People might only physically be here for a few weeks this summer, but the spirit of this camp, the spirit of Robin Hood,  will travel with them for the rest of their days—spanning miles, decades, and lifetimes whether its only 1 summer or 61 (Chuck!) . Let’s make this summer unforgettable. To them I say: Welcome home.

Good Night From the Realm