| In this thesis I explored, through participant observation, interviews and document analysis, how a relationship between physical activity and Christianity is socially constructed through the leadership at a Christian summer camp. Ontario Pioneer Camp (OPC), through its Leaders In Training (LIT) program, placed a strong focus on physical activity in 'creation' as a connection between physical activity and Christianity. Some of the more experienced leaders had a well thought out understanding of additional connections between physical activity and Christianity; however, they did not formally teach them. The leaders at LIT and Adventure Camp identified that having good leaders was the key to having a good camp but stated they were unable to get the best leaders because they could not pay them adequately, since the senior leadership allocated camp resources elsewhere. Servant leadership was clearly the preferred leadership style of OPC leaders. Associated qualities mentioned by the leaders aligned with existing literature and also included communication and experience. |
