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Comments
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1/24/23 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
I really wanted to love this camp - the location and grounds and activities are amazing. Unfortunately I found the directors to be non responsive which is baffling considering your son is in their care. As it turns out my son was being bullied but because of the extremely limited communication parameters, I did not learn the truth until I picked him up, nor did I discover the extent to which the directors and counselors had completely dropped the ball after promising him that his concerns about the bullying he was experiencing would be addressed.He was left to his own devices at 10 years old and his concerns were dismissed as though he had deserved the bullying. Additionally, the camp is overpopulated; too many boys which leaves anyone who might be bullied or homesick to fall through the cracks. Furthermore, I was shocked at the lack of diversity at this camp.As far as communications, the directors were condescending and failed to timely respond to phone calls and emails.Unacceptable.
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*
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12/11/17 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
From the moment my boys got off the bus at camp to when they arrived back home the smiles stayed the same. I am above and beyond impressed with my experience at Winadu. I have two boys - one sporty and the other not so much which made me nervous but there is truly something for every boy. My little guy had the most amazing female division leader that's been at camp for several years-seriously the best!! The communication was superb, from the pictures to the amazing videos to the daily posted schedule and news this is truly a 360 camp and its all in the details!! Winadu still has a true "campy" feel with all the modern day facilities/programming that we parents expect at this level of camping. I can say with confidence that I along with the other parents I have talked with feel the staff is top notch -especially this past summer! my kids are literally still signing their division cheers and cannot WAIT for summer 2018!
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10/10/17 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
The camp leaders do a lot and give a lot attention onboarding you and your camper(s) up front. Once camp starts, good luck hearing from them. Most disturbing was a reported bullying problem that camp administrator denied rather than investigage, and so it continued for the rest of the summer. Less than the nurturing environment we thought it was. Additionally I would say they are too rigid; and did I say not very loving or nurturing .... We will say the facility is beautiful and most of the coaches are great; but the directors leave much to be desired. Not all camps are for all kids; do your research and homework.
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6/28/17 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I love Winadu! My son is there now for his second year. He ran out my car into camp! The staff is incredible, professional and responsive. There is a ton of communication. Everything else is obvious: the activities are great and the facilities are stellar. This camp however goes above and beyond and is so attentive to whatever the kids need. My daughters went to a different camp and it is nothing like Winadu. This place just gets it right 100% of the time.
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*
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3/6/14 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Winadu is a wonderful facility with an attentive staff. My son loved his counselors and the Director was very responsive to my phone calls and emails. He addressed my concerns and looked in on my son to ensure his first summer was going well. He had a great summer and we would highly recommend it!
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*
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10/14/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
What a magnificent experience my kids have had at Winadu. The place is beautiful and the new director, Jared Shapiro, is best in class.
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*
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10/10/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Winadu turns boys into men and strangers into best friends for life. After spending a few summers at Winadu, your child will realize he is no longer going back for the great sports instruction but, rather, for the friends he has made and traditions that bring everyone to tears at the end of each summer. Winadu is an amazing place. Trust me.
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*
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9/1/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Best summer camp you could think of. Really a great camp, I wish i could come forever to bad it comes to an end. Love this camp!
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*
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8/28/13 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This was my first summer as a counselor at Winadu and the memories that I have managed to make here will have a lasting impression on my life. There is much truth behind the saying "long days, short weeks" because before you know it, you look up and camp is over! The bond that campers build with each other and those in overseeing positions is a major highlight to the camp. The best part about Camp Winadu is Campership, a time at the end of the week where the campers are rewarded for their achievements on and off the field. At Camp Winadu characters are made!! And over the years young boys mature into teenagers before your eyes. I would recommend this camp to anyone that wants to be apart of pne of the best camps on the East Coast!
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*
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8/21/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Winadu has been the best 7 summers of my life. The campers and counselors are some the best people I've ever met and they keep me coming back every year. The sports instruction is amazing, and the traditions and values taught at Winadu are great, and made me grow as a person.
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*
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8/14/13 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
As a camper for 9 summers i love Winadu and everything it has to offer. I decided back this year as a councleour and it was as good as being a camper. I loved giving campers the experience I had.
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
*
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9/20/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This place is amazing. I was a camper for 6 years and just finished my 1st year as a counselor. I have learned so many valuable lessons over my years at Winadu, and they are values that I live by and will never forget. The people and traditions kept me coming back for all these years. Throughout my years at Winadu I always felt safe and happy, which is all anyone could ever ask for from a summer camp. Winadu is one of the best places on Earth, and it is a privilege to have been a part of the community for the past 7 years.
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*
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9/12/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This was my sons first experience at Winadu. He had an awesome summer! The counselors were amazing! He enjoyed all of the activities and received fabulous instruction in sports. They even gave him personal attention with pitching at baseball. All of the directors were hands on and great. I think the addition of Jared and Jill is a positve one and they did a wonderful job with the kids and parents this summer. My son can't wait to return next summer!
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*
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9/11/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Camp Winadu is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I am so privileged to have been able to be a camper and counselor at Winadu. Throughout all of my summers at Winadu I have made bonds with people that will last a lifetime. Shelley and Jared are not just Directors, they are friends, motivators, and most importantly teachers to every single boy at Winadu. With Shelley and Jared's guidance I have learned through my many years at camp that it is not always about the end result, but rather how you get there that defines the type of person you are. Winadu has taught me most of what I know today. Whether it's on the courts, in the classroom, or with friends, Camp Winadu has helped shape me into the person I am today.
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*
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9/10/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
We have been a Winadu family for over 11 years. Each of my three sons have developed long lasting friendships that they will enjoy throughout their lives. While each of them have taken away different experiences, the all have grown from them - developing a sense of independence and maturity. Each have strengths in different sports and have enjoyed the ability to branch out and improve on other skills at Winadu - enjoying the dedicated focus of specialists for each sport. Winadu has consistently provided a great balance of camp life for my boys by evidence of how they talk about camp after they come home, throughout the school year and in the spring leading up to the next camp season. Winadu has helped them in ways we have only begun to see. Thank you Winadu.
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*
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9/7/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This camp is the greatest place on Earth. I made friendships here that will last for a life time and that I will cherish forever. The people you meet at Camp Winadu are amazing and there is nothing like them anywhere else. Being at camp Winadu was one of the best decisions of my life
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*
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8/31/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
At winadu, we count the days from the day we leave until the second we arrive back at our second homes. Winadu is not only a camp to us, its a place where we get to be with our friends for life, our brothers forever. Winadu promotes friendship and competitive sports. It is the best possible combination. I see everyone in my division, as much as possible. Seven years as a camper flew by way too quickly and I would do anything to get the time back and do it again the same exact way, without changing a single thing. The counselors are taught the traditions that make Winadu the best place on earth. The place is just amazing. It has great facilitites and is situated in the most beautiful location in the Berkshires. There is nowhere else like it. I hope to come back forever and ever until I am physically unable to.
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*
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8/30/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This camp is the greatest place on earth. The traditions and friendships will keep you coming back forever.
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*
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8/26/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I had the privilege of being a Winadu camper for 8 years and a counselor for 3 years. Throughout my time at Winadu (both as a camper and a counselor) I have learned so much not only about sports but also about what it means to be a team player. What makes Winadu great isn't the dedication of the staff, beauty of the facilities, or focus on improving campers' athleticism (though Winadu can boast all of these things); any camp can have these things. What really sets Winadu apart, and what has truly shaped my life since the moment I stepped on camp, is the culture. Winadu is the only camp that I know of (and I have toured and played sports at multiple camps) where the directors and staff members know all of the kids names before campers arrive. Winadu also has so many unique traditions that kept me coming back each summer. Camp Winadu will always have a special place in my heart and I know no matter where life takes me to apart of me will always bleed white and blue.
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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8/22/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
As a former camper and counselor, I have experienced Winadu from both ends of the spectrum. As a camper, there is no better place. The negative comments are likely from people who have not been able to social adjust to a small group of 30-40 boys. That is not an easy task, which is why some do not last there for even two years. However, those who stay until their last years stay because they love it, and share bonds ighter than anything you have seen before. The sports, character training, and people at Winadu make it the most special place on Earth. As a counselor, you must realize the camp is there for the kids, not yourself. The directors hold you accountable for anything that happens to a child, and looking after and living with them is not an easy task. If you can do your job because you love it, the long hours will fly by, and you will be part of the mass of counselors that get more emotional than the kids when the last day of camp hits. Winadu is so much more than just a camp.
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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8/18/12 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
3 |
Winadu can be a great experience for boys. They do bring in staff from all over the US and other countries. They do however TELL you to lie to the parents. If you do not they will make your life hell until you either do or you leave. You are give 5 minutes to pack. They do promise you bonuses that they do not pay. The facilities are getting run down and are often not fixed properly but just patched up. They are in the process of bringing on new directors. These people are nightmares!! I would trust my son to Shelley and Arlene but NEVER to these new directors! They do not even do a passable job of pretending to care about the kids!
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*
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6/8/12 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
As a former Winadu Counselor who finished one summer, I can tell you first hand how awful of an experience it was for me. As a counselor, you work a ridiculous amount of hours (probably 70+ with one day a week off) for little pay. It would not be so bad if the staff (and campers) were halfway decent, but the Staff offers little support in dealing with campers who do not follow the rules; afterall, they are rich and paying a ridiculous amount of money to attend. Needless to say if you are a counselor be prepared to feel like a second class citizen over the summer. About 90% of the counselors are first year, which means they are not retaining counselors, and for good reason. It is not that counselors are lazy or immature as the post below says, it is because they are paid very little, treated like chattel, and easily dispensable. Counselors are often fired at the end to save on the completion bonus. Do yourself a favor and find a different camp to work at or send your kid to.
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*
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5/17/12 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This camp is a total sham. I worked as a counselor here during the summer of 2002 and was deliberately told to lie to my kids about my credentials - they told me to tell them I was a division 1 baseball player at the University of Oregon when, at the time, the UO did not even have a baseball team. The camp owner, Shelley Weiner, flies in college kids from all over the country and world and promises them bonuses for sticking around until the end. However, he fires them over petty occurrences before he has to pay out this bonus. He's a total fraud and scam artist. Do not send your kids to this camp.
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SYSTEM: 2 negative duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
*
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4/5/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Great camp, learned a lot over my 8 years there. Couldn't think of a better place for the summer
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*
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3/8/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
As a counselor at Winadu for the past two summers, I can recommend this camp with great enthusiasm to both campers and staff. For campers, it is an incredible place with great friends, traditions, and sports instruction. I wish I had gone here as a camper. For staff, being a counselor is not an easy job, but if you do your job well you will be treated well by the directors. The negative reviews clearly come from the staff who were too lazy or immature to make the cut. Winadu has high standards for its staff, and that's what makes it great especially by fulfilling the promise of safety to parents.
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*
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3/1/12 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Winadu delivered on all that it promised. The camp is nestled against the gorgeous backdrop of the Berkshires and from all the tours went on, it was superior to all the other camps.. Their attention to detail and child safety are extraordianry. The well being of the campers is their number one priority and it shows across the board on the field, in the cabin, and during all activities. Furthermore, a seven week camp offers your child the opportunity to truly experience the customs and bonds of a traditional camp, something they can't experience in four weeks or five. These kids bond and their friendships grow over the years. Shelley is strict with his staff, but as a parent, I can tell you I wouldn't ask for anything less. The camp exemplifies professionalism. Our children are our most precious gifts. I wouldn't consider anywhere else but Winadu. Happy and well taken care of children were our goals. Winadu exceeded our expectations. highly recommend without reservation.
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*
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8/19/11 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I love everything about Winadu. As a former camper and now my son goes there. Shelley has been like a father to me. I would do anything to go back. My son comes off the bus every year with a smile and has endless things to say about his time. I never heard a negative comment. I encourage all parents to send there child here not only for sports instruction but for them to learn great values which will lead them through life.
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SYSTEM: 2 negative duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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4/20/11 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Winadu has been a great experience for me. Although the staff has weakened a little bit in athleticism they are still the best in the northeast. The facilities are also wonderful including the Winadome (indoor basketball court). The best part of camp is the kids, the kids there are very well mannered unlike other competitive camps and treat each other like brothers. A little expensive but definitely worth it. Shelly is a great guy who cares about each and every camper. People think Winadu is not a good camp because they don't win in their tournaments but in the next couple years they will be wining state tournaments again.If you want your kid to be with good kids and learn sports and sportsmanship, send your kids here. An example is at a Greylock tournament kids were yelling and screaming while Winadu was at the foul line. When Greylock was on the foul line Winadu was silent. Again, send your kids here.
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1/19/11 |
5 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I worked at Winadu this past summer and I have to say that I was thoroughly disappointed with the way safety was handled by Shelley. Several times I was forced to reprimand campers for unsafe activities, such as climbing in the rafters of the bunks, and instead of receiving support, I was called incompetent and moved out of the bunk. If you want your child to have fun, this is a great camp. But if you are concerned about safety, this camp is not for you. The only upside was that the staff was able to work with the kids despite Shelly's obvious incompetence. In all honesty, I am surprised that the camp has not been sued for negligence. The safety protocols are a joke, and while this camp is not as isolated as some, any remote location should have adequate procedures in case of an emergency. Winadu is a Winadont if you a concerned that your child could be hurt.
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10/4/10 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
I would have to say the values taught to the kids is one that will impact the kids live forever. The kids are what make Winadu such an amazing place. I was an Area Head and have to say from my point of view it was the best summer of my life. The impact each kid made on my life was something I will never forget. I am not a person who cries about anyting but at the end of camp I had an emotional breakdown for a few of the boys. Winadu may not always treat there staff the best but when you keep the kids in mind at all times it changes everything. I would reccomend Winadu to anyone who truly loves kids and wants to be a part of impacting kids lives forever. I have about 70 kids I still talk to on facebook and some that I still talk to on a regular basis. The spirit of Winadu is amazing.
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*
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10/11/09 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Bar none, WINADU is the best boys camp in the Northeast. I have been a staff member for 5 years. I have travelled to many other camps as an instructor and coach. WINADU has the best combination of supervision, instruction, quality facilities, warm family envitronment, and FUN. Shelley and Arleen care for children better and more attentively than anyone. When my son is old enough, he will be a WINADU camper. Do not take mine or anyone else's word for it. GO see the difference yourself. Visit WINADU and any other camps. See it in action. Then you will know.
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*
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9/9/09 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I sent my son to Camp Winadu this summer after a bad experience last summer at a similar camp very nearby. He had the greatest summer of his life at Winadu. Shelley and Arleen are extraordianry directors and care about the campers so much. Right when Evan got off the bus at camp Shelley greeted him by name and knew all about him. I can't say enough about this camp and how detail orientated and welcoming they've been to our family (my son has a very bad food allergy). My son came home with a new confidence I had never seen. He's also trying out for his school's soccer team, which is incredible if you knew my son. Evan will be attending Winadu again and will be bringing a few friends with him.
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*
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8/22/09 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
As a parent who had 2 boys attend this camp I have to tell you how dissapointed I was this year.In the past my boys enjoyed themselves and we did look past a few problems. this summer was different the feeling from the owners/directors were mean spirited and two faced. They seem to be tired and just going through the motions to get through the summer. I wouldn;t reccomend a boy working there after his last year (lobo), the owner treats them and pays them like slaves. he instills fear instead of the "team spirit and brotherhood). The hours these boys are supposed to work are beyond child labor hours. If there is a problem the owner/director plays the favoritizm game. I used to recommend this camp to others, now the story is different. In fact I have a son that I'm pulling out of this camp. I don;t trust the owner/ director anymore. I also think that the staff has lost the "spirit" and just goes throught motions of the day. Please think twice before you send your sons here.DON"T GO THERE
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*
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8/11/09 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
I worked at camp winadu. Before camp started before 09 summer the counselors had to bleach mattresses for bed bugs..bunks also had to be bombed with disinfectant(windows were not covered). Mattresses are filthy with dark stains. Weren't bed bugs but there were bugs crawling over the mattresses. High authority said that bunks were all checked including mattresses(most of mattresses look filthy). The elder campers say they realized that shelly is two face and they return for their friendships rather than for camp. even the lobos(returning campers who work) recognize that the camp is declining. Incident of a counselor getting fired after a kid started pushing him violently. The counselor grabbed the kids arm to restrain him. Ask anyone, he was well liked thru staff & campers. The camp is now calling counselor a "child abuser." camp policy if 2 kids are fighting one is supposed to match intensity and seperate. Most of the people on campus lost a great deal of respect after his termination
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SYSTEM: 2 positive duplicate or disallowed ratings automatically removed |
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10/21/08 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I have been researching a sports camp to send my child to next summer. I ran across this site and felt obligated to express how poor our experience was last year at Winadu. The director is so out of touch with what takes place at this facility. They claim to promote sports instruction and teamwork. Can I tell you how many very upsetting phone calls that we received from our son. We as parents assumed this was an exaggeration from our child, upon further review, he was right on. I do not wish to attack individuals but the administration does not support any development of this program. We will be taking our child to another sports camp in the area. The levels of supervision and lack of instruction were horrifying. We have kept in touch with the counsleors as they did the best they could with what little support they received. We have mentioned to the conselors to consider the camp we are sending our son to. There are not enough words to discribe my complete dissatisfaction with Winadu.
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10/12/08 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
Not a good experience for our family. While they advertise as an instructional sports camp my son didn't get much from it. He also felt that the staff was not interested in many of the campers and played favorites.
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10/1/08 |
3 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
The best summer of your life, but sports need to be improved. There are no more intercamps and we are not recognized as as good of a sports camp as we used to be. Friends will be made and never forgotten.
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10/1/08 |
3 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
3 |
I think that this camp has gone down the water and that we need to start gettin back into sports. Plus we are losing torunaments ad inter camps to the worst camps and now we are turning into the worst. The staff is too strict they should let us to more fun things. Also the electronic rule is garbage. Being a current camper and it is about to be my 7th year i have seen more fights than ever since the rule has been made. We have also lost so many kids because of our lack in sports and we dont even try to get better by being scared of tournaments in younger age groups.
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9/4/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
No matter what anybody says, Camp Winadu is a great place to be. For most parents the number 1 concern is knowing that your child is in a safe, secure place. Shelley is the most cautious person I know and he will do anything to protect the well-being of these children. Go to Camp Winadu, you will have the best summer of your life.
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9/3/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I love this camp, it has been a fantastic experience for me and I'm sure will be beneficial for me in numerous ways for the future. I've worked here for quite some time and while I wont deny Winadu may have some problems, none are monumental. Complaints over food and housing arent really valid as after all this is a summer camp and some traditional camp values must be kept. Winadu's appearence is better than any other camp ive seen. I love the diversity of the people that all adds to the experience. I had a great experience hear as I've already stated and I believe it is well worth the hard work
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8/4/08 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
This camp is a joke! Shelly is the biggest back stabber I know! He says that he is in it for the counselors when he is actually in it for the kids and the money. There is no discipline and kids know this. You work an average of 15 hour days for lets say far lower than minimum wage. Shelly tells the kid's parents exactly what they want to hear even if it is at the expensive of counselors or staff just so that he doesn't look bad. If this camp did not have Shelly then it would be a better place!
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7/27/08 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
3 |
Im currently working at winadu, and dont think im on my own when i say that the directors care a hell of alot more about the campers than the staff! The staff are overlooked and unaprecciated, especially us councelors who are treated like****! This creates a massive amount of bad feeling in the camp. The lobos have far too many privilages and do half the work. They kiss Arleens arse and get special attention!! Theyre not campers any more they came here to work!!
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7/26/08 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
I am working at camp right now as I write this. I like getting to know the staff, since they are from all around the world. It's pretty awesome actually. That's my favorite part of camp. HOWEVER, some counselors here, including myself, refer to this place as Planatation Winadu since we are treated sooooo horribly! 13 hours a day, sometimes we work ALL day, and we only get 30 bucks a day, and I think that's before taxes. Around 8 of those hours are spent coaching, although the "clinics" are hell. Maybe the kids learn in other clinics, but in my clinic (which i will keep secret), the kids learn nothing. We just play games with them and run mindless drills and try to keep GREAT ENERGY TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED! It's like im a clown instead of a coach. I'm paranoid that I'll get fired any day. Another counselor was just fired this morning - given 7 minutes to pack and leave. Where would I go if Im fired? Shelley is two-faced and he's probably gonna stab me in the back.
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7/14/08 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
It is a difficult job for a camp counselor. I had a mixed experience, the kids were mostly good, however, they knew that the counselors had no ability to inforce any dicipline. I enjoyed the trips outside the camp visiting New York was awesome. Shelly was an interesting guy. He was very focused on the campers, which in retrospect is where it should be. I still remember thinking that it was odd that as a sports camp the food that was served was mostly fast food, lot's of chips hamburgers and hotdogs, strange. Met some really cool fellow camp counselors. Honestlt though I have worked other camps since then and I have had better experences. Let's just say I wish them well, however, I never went back. Cheers
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1/31/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I think this camp is amazing. Ive been going there for seven summers as a camper and will no want to go anywere else. Dont listen to anything people say thus camo is amazing. It is true somebody died but ut brought us closer together as a camp. Shelly is amazing.
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1/23/08 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I worked at Winadu for 5 years as a councellor and a Group Leader. Shelly is excellent at what he does! He treats the kids like they are his own. As for staff if you work hard he takes care of you if you are a slacker and went there on a vacation yes you will be fired!! Winadu is a special place if you like working with kids I highly reccommend the experience!!
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12/8/07 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
This "camp" is a joke. There is NO disciplinary system. When working with children YOU MUST be able to revoke privilages. The fact that the director is an arrogant, senile old man does not help either. He was all smoke and mirrors. "Stop messing around or else I will have to ___" And when the lawless children continued to do whatever it was, he would say "Stop messing around or I will have to __". It is a joke. If you are looking for a good camp I would look elsewhere, unless you want your child to be in an enviorment where he is constantly catered(sp?) to. I would have loved it if I was 9 YEARS OLD and had somone serving me my food at every meal and when I said jump they said "how high?". An abomination of a "camp" at it's best.
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11/26/07 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
2 |
The camp itself is a good camp, the counselors are nice and care a lot about the kids. The directors on the other hand are the problem. Shelley and Arleen are so ungrateful and horrible to their staff. You will do so many favors for them and they still don't acknowledge you or treat you like anything worth more than dirt. Arleen is by far the worst woman you will ever meet in your life, and she talks to you yelling all the time without a care in the world for the staff. Shelley is backstabbing and picks his favorites and if you are not one of them you will not get anything. Also, if counselors are fired they will make fun of you in front of the entire camp including campers. Shelley also is two faced, he acts so open and generous to the parents but in reality he overworks his staff, lies to campers, is inconsiderate, and only thinks of himself and how things can affect him. I would never work at this camp again or advise anyone to do so.
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11/20/07 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
Worked there in o7. The sports instruction was very good. The campers were pretty good by in large. The "lobos" can do nothing wrong.The director - well lets say he likes power. He wants yes men. The Head Counselor doesn't have a clue. If the camp had a better director, this place would be the ticket.The camp is good for younger kids, but kids older than 12 should do something else.
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10/30/07 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
winadu is camp they do the same things every year. I would'nt be coming back if it was not my senior year but it is. it will be my 8th summer. Some counselors suck others that are good get fired!! the food suxs and we should be given more privlages. Its a great camp for young kids but as you get older it may get better in some ways, but mostly it sucks!!
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10/9/07 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
I have spent six summers working at this camp. While the tuition is a little high, people coming here has to realize that it is camp. We live in cabins and eat camp food. However the instruction here is all done by professional coaches and teachers making it incredible for kids who are serious about sports. There is also a great focus on music, theater and arts and crafts for those who aren't as crazy about athletics. I love the team atmosphere about camp and how the staff are from all over the world which offers the kids different perspectives and cultures to learn. The kitchen staff offer a wide variety of options at each meal. Complete salad bar and sandwiches or bbq everyday...this on top of the hot line! Special attention is payed to children with allergies or other diet restrictions. The camp is 100% nut free, making it a great place for kids who would otherwise not be able to attend summer camp. I loved my time at Winadu and would recommend this camp to parents and campers!
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8/2/07 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
2 |
2 |
The politics at this camp rivals Washington, DC. There is so much back stabbing and two-facing, it is sickening. Many of the top staffers are rude and inconsiderate, they must be on a power trip. If there is an issue of any sort, the conversations are ONE WAY. They will not listen to your side of the story. The top people at this camp REALLY, REALLY need to re-examine themselves. Working at a camp should be fun. They try to make it miserable for everyone. There is so much negativity here. The camp does not discourage people making fun of one another. This is DISRESPECTFUL. What lessons are they teaching the young boys? Does anyone on the top staff get this?? Whenever there are parents visiting, everyone puts on a big show. Everyone smiles, acts nice, and puts on their camp uniforms. It's a big joke. More than a fair share of people get fired at this camp. Some justified, some not. And guess what? the staff makes fun of you when you are gone. Again, sickening. STWAY AWAY.
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7/25/07 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
Yes, Shelley runs a tight ship and is demanding of his Camp Staff. Most Staff work 10-12 days, six days each week. Welcome to the life of a Camp Staffer. If you can't cut that type of schedule, don't sign up. Shelley is all about the kids, the campers. He is present for all the events to make sure everything is ready as planned. And yes, Staff members do get fired, but it is only because they don't make the grade or did something terribly wrong. Shelley is fair and listens to what you have to say. As for the Camp itself, it is very well organized and the campers have lots of great activities, sports, and off-camp trips to chose from and attend. They take the boys to Six Flags, Cooperstown, Red Sox games, and the Movies, as well as many other things. The sports and sleeping facilities are pretty good, probably a little above average. The head instructor for each sport is very good, but after the one head instructor for each sport, there is a HUGE drop off.
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5/4/07 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Worst experience of your life. This camp is absolutly horrendous. I went thier as a camper, and it isn't worth 9000 a summer. Thier are better ways to spend your money. Shelly promised me that he would help me improve. he only talked to me when my parents were there. Like my mom said it's a whole game of politics, the more money your family dumps into winadu, the better treatement you will recieve. Some of the staff was really nice, but then again they fire them every year, so they don't have to pay them a bonus. So they never come back. Thats why every summer for the past 10 years 85% of the staff is brand new. They bring foreign people in and shelly says it's a "broading experience". My dad said they go through an agency so they don't have to pay them as much as kids from the USA. It's a total fraud. The food is gross, like they stop caring about it after a week. Then the whole kitchen staff doesn't speak english, so you better hope you don't have any allergies to food. $ Save your $
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4/24/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I worked at this camp for 3 summers while in college and it was the most life changing experience that Ive ever had. As a teacher and coach, it showed me how to love every child for who they were and not who they were not. Every thing Shelley told me was true and then some. I still love this camp and i have not been back up in about 5 years but i long for the day that i will be able to go up for a brief time just to feel camp winadu, just one more time!!
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4/17/07 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Our sons go this wonderful camp and look forward to it throughout the year. The sports instruction is above average in an environment where not every child is "an athlete". Shelly caters to EACH childs individual strenghts and builds upon them from there. It gets better and better each year. Yes, like ALL quality camps it is expensive but worth the value when you think of the life long lessons and friendships these boys are making. If we had one criticism it would be that there is nothing keeping the boys together during the year like a reunion etc. Realizing that the bulk of children are in the northeast there really should be something.
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1/22/07 |
2 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
1 |
The quality of the facilities & wide range of activities the camp has to offer do not make up for the inhumane way the camp director, Shelly, treats the camp counselors (especially the foreign ones). The counselors were great to us, but their fear of Shelly (whom they called the "tyrant"), had a significantly negative impact on their level of comfort and ultimately on their overall mood. They were constantly threatened with this "6-minute-rodeo" (named after the time they were given to pack their bags when they were "asked" to leave, on foot to the nearest town). As an American, I was appalled by this "white slavery" mentality. It set a bad example to the youth, who learned nothing about integrity or respect to others. The most repugnant policy, was Shelly?s rule to fire 30% of the staff 1 week before the end of the summer, to avoid paying them their full wages (actually, he only paid them $300 instead of the full $1,500 promised, threatening to cancel their visas if they complained)
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1/19/07 |
4 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
I went to Camp Winadu for seven years and I will never forget what a great time I had. I made many friends over the years that I still keep in touch with and see. The instruction is top notch, however, it probably wouldnt hurt to add some more activities for the type of kid who doesnt love sports 24 hours a day (Hiking, et). The facilities are top notch and the camp should continue renovations since each summer's cost is growing. Other than those couple things I have no criticism, I highly suggest this camp to anyone who can afford it and truly has a passion for sports, good instruction, and a lifetime's worth of friendships
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12/17/06 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I spent four fun filled summers at Camp Winadu and loved it so much that I returned as a counselor last year and plan to again this upcoming summer. I not only learned what it means to be part of a team, (Team Winadu, helping the other guy out,) but I also forged life long friendships with fellow campers.
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11/29/06 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
this was my first year and I loveit! I plan to come back for a long time. It is the best place ever.
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7/5/06 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
This is my son's third summer. He is very happy. This is warm environment where the campers and staff are very supportive of eachother. Has every sporting activity imaginable. Director is wonderful. Knows the kids individually. He is responsive, warm and loves what he does. Expert in addressing any situation. Excellent infirmary. Decent food. Great Bar Mitzvah tutoring. Much individual attention. Fabulous counselors. Encourages and includes each camper regardless of athletic ability. Amazing special activities - Trips to four Halls of Fame, unbelievable color war, etc.I know many campers and their families all are happy and enthusiastic.
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7/5/06 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
My son is attending his third year at the camp, I think its a great camp for boys that love sports they play every kind of sport you can think of he has a great time when he attends the camp I would reccomend it to any parent that wants their kids to have a fun filled summer.
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6/28/06 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
New, younger director needed. Food budget is $5.00 per camper per day. Water-front is below par. Swimming pool is from JFK's era. There is no swim instuction or swim competition. Most staff are fearful of the director
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6/26/06 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I went here for 9 summers as a camper, and I loved it so much that I had to go back as a counslor the next year. I didn't realize how much I missed the camp, now that I am not there. The friends I made there are lifelong friends that I still contact and see throughout the year. Overall, Winadu is just a great camp with great tradition and outstanding facilities and counslors.
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4/11/06 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
Fun camp, very expensive, but lots of great stuff to do there, I went for 6 years, and I had a very enjoyable time, great tradition, as well as fun trips as you get older.
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