Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast (GSCCC) celebrated the grand opening of the new axe-throwing range at Camp Apasus on Saturday, January 21st. Troops that make up the council’s Norfolk Service Unit donated the funds to build the new outdoor adventure, and members from the Norfolk Sertoma Club, a service club that has sponsored the camp for more than 50 years, constructed the two throwing lanes.
“We love it when girls share an idea of what they want to do at camp,” GSCCC CEO Tracy Keller said during remarks at the dedication ceremony. “Their adult leaders then brought the idea to the service unit volunteers who took action to make this new axe-throwing range a reality.”
Located on Mason’s Creek in Norfolk on Granby Street, Camp Apasus has a long history as one of the oldest camps in Hampton Roads and is considered a gem within a busy city. The property provides an outdoor experience to many girls who otherwise wouldn’t have access.
“We are so grateful to the Norfolk Service Unit and our friends with Norfolk Sertoma Club,” GSCCC Philanthropy Director Sally Swanson said during the dedication. “Girl Scouts relies on both donations and volunteers to bring Girl Scouting to the community.”
Axe-throwing isn’t new to this Girl Scout council. The first range was built at Camp Darden in Southampton County in 2019 and is used throughout the year. If you thought Girl Scouts was only about cookies and crafts, maybe you should look again! Girl Scouts offer a variety of outdoor activities, STEM events, and ways to make a difference through community service.
(PHOTO: Trying out the new axe-throwing range at Camp Apasus were, from left to right, Christine Janison, SU 375 Norfolk; Marisa Beck, GSCCC Philanthropy Committee; and Jim Larkin, Sertoma Club of Norfolk.)