Get Your Kid Off the Couch and into a Summer Sport Camp in the DFW Area

Sleep late, watch some television, maybe nap at poolside, and then stay up all night playing video games with friends. That is most kids' idea of a perfect summer vacation. However, in light of articles about children's obesity and lack of fitness, parents are searching for ways to get their offspring off the couch and exercising. Check out these sport and fitness camp choices in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and get your kids moving based on their abilities and interests.

Basketball:
Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp for ages 8 to 18 is held in various locations around the DFW area.
(214-747-6287). One-week sessions costs $225 and includes game vouchers, jerseys, and other pro basketball paraphernalia. The camp teaches basketball and includes guest speakers.

Pepsi Nancy Lieberman Basketball Camp is held at two locations - Collin County Community College or the University of Texas at Dallas - and teaches fundamentals of basketball along with game tactics. (www.nancylieberman.com or 972-307-0101)

Arlington Parks and Recreation Sports Academy teaches ages 6 to 15 about various sports including basketball. The one- week sessions costs $75 to $125 and offers a variety of activity. (www.aceacom.com or 817-462-3700

Fencing:
Fencing Day Camp offers a unique sport for ages 8 to 17. The price of $150 to $350 includes equipment. It teaches students how to fence or how to improve their skills and prepare for competitions. (www.fenceintexas.org or 972-444-8498) En garde!

Football:
It would not be Texas if football camps did not exist. Load up your child with a sport drink and watch him sweat off the pounds at the following camps:

Garland Owls Youth Football Camp. Grades 3rd thru 8th. (www.garlandowls.com or 972-494-8589)
Phil Bennett Mustang Football Camps Grades 2nd thru 12th (www.smumustangs.com or 214-768-3667
Premier Football Camp Ages 7-14 (www.allstarcamps.com or 972-481-9400)

Horse:
Whether it is English or Western equestrian that interests your youngster, check into these stables for riding, horse care, and safety: