Honoring Leadership, Growth and Camp Spirit at the MetroWest YMCA’s Summer Camp Awards Ceremony

The MetroWest YMCA camp community is full of spirit, heart, and compassion—qualities that were on full display at the Y’s 3rd Annual Summer Day Camp Awards Ceremony. Led by Steve Lockney, Associate Executive Director of Camping Services, the ceremony celebrated the growth, achievements, and contributions of both campers and staff who made the 2025 camp season so special.  

Throughout the evening, campers were recognized for their teamwork, leadership, creativity, and commitment to the camp community, while staff and counselors were honored for their dedication, guidance, and for the impact they have on every camper’s experience. Families, campers, and staff came together to reflect on a summer full of meaningful moments that exemplify the YMCA’s values of respect, responsibility, and belonging.

“Our camp awards ceremony is one of my favorite nights of the year because it captures the heart of what we do,” Steve expressed. “We’re not just celebrating accomplishments—we’re recognizing growth, character, and the positive impact our campers and staff have on one another throughout the summer.”

Among the many recognitions, several awards stood out for their special significance. Keep reading below to see highlights from a few standout awards and the incredible individuals who earned them.

Spirit Award (camper) – Wyatt Keane, Middlers Unit at Hopkinton Summer Day Camp

One particular camper, Wyatt Keane, demonstrated exceptional character last summer, earning him the Spirit Award.  

During a boating block, Wyatt noticed a camper struggling with big emotions and immediately stepped in with kindness and support. He reassured the camper and then stayed by their side, offering comfort and steady companionship. When asked later about his favorite part of camp, Wyatt said without hesitation, “Helping a camper when they needed help.” This simple response captures his compassionate, empathetic, and quietly heroic nature, making him an outstanding example of the relationships, character, and spirit we celebrate at camp.

Employees of the Year nominees, Hopkinton Summer Day Camp

Many camp staff members were recognized for consistently going above and beyond to support campers, families, and fellow staff throughout the summer. Even more meaningful, several of the nominated staff and counselors were once campers themselves—an inspiring testament to the Y’s lasting impact, the strength of its community, and the power of belonging.

CIT of the Year Award – Megan Bittle, Cooper Verrecchia, and Khaled Haque, Hopkinton Summer Day Camp

As one of two leadership camps, the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program is a key part of the Y’s youth development efforts. Through mentorship and hands-on learning, teens develop valuable skills and become confident leaders in their community.

This season, 12 CITs were nominated for the CIT of the Year Award for their leadership potential, responsibility, and commitment to personal growth. From this outstanding group, three winners were selected for their exceptional professionalism, dedication, guidance, and positive energy throughout the season.

• Megan Bittle set an exceptional standard as a CIT, consistently earning high praise for her professionalism, leadership, and ability to connect with campers and staff. She supported counselors and created an environment where campers felt safe and engaged. Megan’s warmth, initiative, and camp spirit made a lasting impact and truly set her apart.
• Khaled Haque demonstrated remarkable maturity and leadership as a CIT with the Middlers, often stepping in as a third counselor to lead activities, support staff, and ensure a safe, positive environment. His ability to connect with campers—balancing authority with approachability—made a meaningful difference, and counselors consistently noted how his presence strengthened their groups.
• Cooper Verrecchia demonstrated consistency, maturity, and natural leadership across every group he supported. He connected easily with campers, led with calm confidence, and showed exceptional initiative, reliability, and attention to safety. Cooper’s enthusiasm, strong work ethic, and willingness to step up made an impact on campers, staff, and the overall summer day camp experience.

Spirit Award (staff) – Jesus Addarich, Hopkinton Summer Day Camp

For more than two decades, Jesus has been a cornerstone of the MetroWest YMCA, embodying the true spirit of camp through his compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community. 

Known for his remarkable ability to connect with campers, families, and staff, he creates an environment where everyone feels heard, supported, and valued. Always the first to step in when help is needed, Jesus leads with both heart and high expectations—mentoring staff to reach their potential and inspiring teen campers to lead by example. His creativity shines through beloved traditions and innovative programs, as well as the joyful, authentic way he celebrates camp life.

For his decades of service, boundless kindness, and lasting impact on generations of campers, the MetroWest Y was proud to honor Jesus with the Spirit Award. 

Rookie of the Year – Caitriona Houston, Camp Clearbrook 

Employees of the Year nominees, OCP Summer Program 

Junior Counselor of the Year – Kayleb Cloutier, Y STEAM Summer Program 

To see even more of the incredible camper and staff award winners, visit the Y’s Facebook album.