Yoh! This place is beautiful, look at the buildings, and all these big boats. Even the air smells different! Wow! I can’t believe this is where I am today.

These were the words of one of the boys from the Salt River Service Center as we made our way to the Academy for a day on the water. We took a slow walk, allowing them to take in the views, with soft whispers of amazement following behind us as they admired the city’s beauty.

The boys came prepared, and the energy was at an all-time high. When the facilitator asked who had ever been on a boat, the room went quiet, with only two boys raising their hands. They were reassured that it was okay because today is all about new experiences.

And this group? Different. No nerves, no hesitation, just excitement. Some were even too ready, confidently wanting to take on the boats without an instructor after their land briefing. Isn’t that something?

Each boat had a water gun to keep the vibes alive, but the boys took it to another level, splashing everyone in sight, whether you were passing by or just watching.

We ended the day by awarding each of the boys a certificate, celebrating loudly, so loudly it felt like the whole city could hear that the champions were in the area. Moments like these remind us how powerful new experiences can be in building confidence, joy, and a sense of belonging.