“The inspiration behind our summer camps comes from the little girl in me who found her confidence, her passion, and her joy through camps like these. That’s why I’m so intentional about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for every child who walks through our doors.”
Jackie Lyons
CEO, Hardwood Hustle
Growing up, I was a shy and awkward kid who was absolutely terrified of big groups. I didn’t even like my own birthday parties because I felt so intimated.
I was the little 8-year-old girl clinging to my parents’ leg, in tears every time they tried to check me into camp. I would chase after them as they walked out the door, desperate not to be left behind.
This became a familiar routine, me crying, running out the door, and sitting on the sidelines during the first few drills, paralyzed by anxiety. But my parents kept bringing me back, and little by little, something began to shift.
I started to feel a bit less nervous. I wasn’t exactly making friends right away, and I was still terrified of authority figures, but I began to enjoy the drills. It felt good to participate, to have coaches notice me, and to start connecting with other kids. For the first time, I felt seen – I had a purpose.
By middle school, I actually started looking forward to summer camps. That’s when I realized something else: if I worked really hard for several hours a day, I could improve. I could become good at this game.
It was around that time my parents sent me to a specialized shooting camp. That camp changed everything. I fell in love with all aspects of shooting, and the way I approached the game transformed forever. I became obsessed with improving.
Every one of our camps is built around a specific skill theme, allowing us to take a deep dive into one or two key areas each week. With over 20 hours of skill development, classroom discussions, guest coach lectures, and competitive skill challenges, we provide players with an immersive learning experience. Our goal is not just to help them refine their craft and build a strong foundation for their game, but also to inspire a love for the process of continuous improvement.
The inspiration behind our summer camps comes from the little girl in me who found her confidence, her passion, and her joy through camps like these. That’s why I’m so intentional about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for every child who walks through our doors. I make it a point to connect with the kids who seem extra nervous, because I was that kid.
Jackie Lyons
CEO, Hardwood Hustle
To learn more about our 2025 Summer Camp Hustle Tour, please visit our website: www.hardwood-hustle.com.
