|
 The
Kiowas and the Tonkawas are the two
tribes at Camp Mystic. On the first night of
camp, a new camper draws either a red slip (Tonkawa) or a blue
slip (Kiowa) to determine whether she will spend
the evening on Tonk Hill or Kiowa Hill. The tribal system
provides new campers with an instant sense of belonging at camp.
The tribe also gives campers of all ages the opportunity to
contribute to their team by cheering, painting signs, playing in
competitive games, or encouraging their tribe sisters
to excel.
 The tribe traditions, which have been handed
down since Mystic’s beginning, help to emphasize team spirit, fun
competition and good sportsmanship.
The tribe system at Mystic provides a wonderful opportunity to
teach young girls good sportsmanship. After each game, the losing
tribe commends the winning tribe who, in turn, compliments the
losing tribe. Campers from opposite
tribes pair up after each game and go up to Chapel Hill to pray.
 Each camper aspires to receive her tribe letter at
the end of camp. To earn their tribe letters, campers must
abide by the tribe training rules and receive favorable reports
from their activity and cabin counselors, as well as their tribe
captain.
Campers are also
assigned Big and Little Sisters in their tribes. This
program is mutually beneficial for older and younger campers
alike. Big sisters learn to serve as good role models,
guiding and comforting their little sisters, who benefit greatly
from this nurturing relationship. |
