Summer Band Camp
Summer Band Dates/Location/Times
Summer Band camp is required for all GOHS Band and Color Guard students. Consult the CHARMS calendar for specifics and please note that days and times can be subject to change. Directors will inform parents and students of any changes VIA email and/or BAND. Attendance is MANDATORY unless otherwise approved by Directors.
Camp Tips
Before Band Camp
Before Summer Camp even starts, there are things you can do to get ready.
Turn in your Pre-Participation Physical before the first day. You cannot participate without this.
Go Outside. Has your student been indoors all summer? Eating junk food? Doing too much sitting? Don't wait until the first day to start acclimating to the outdoors. Texas is HOT and Houston is HUMID and you'll want to get outside and start walking/running a little at a time in the weeks leading up to Day 1.
Get Your Gear in Order. We recommend...
Sunscreen, Hats and Sunglasses. I think we can all agree that Texas summers can be brutal by temperature, but they are also brutal by UV rays. Even if your child doesn't get sunburns, it is imperative that they use and keep reapplying sunscreen throughout the day. Hats help shade the neck and face while sunglasses protect the eyes! The best part is this is a chance for your kiddo to find the goofiest hat around!
Large Water Jug (not a water bottle) and Electrolytes. Many parents parents add electrolytes to water jugs and most can be found at our local grocery stores.
Shoes! Invest in a good pair of athletic shoes for marching practice. Flats, flipflops, crocs, sandals and bare feet are not allowed.
Workout Clothing. You'll want light colored tee shirts, athletic shorts, and absorbent socks.
Fanny Pack (for your flip book, phone, band-aids, hair ties) and/or Duffle Bag (for your extra clothes, lunch, snacks, personal hygiene items)
Deodorant! Picture this: you drop off your sweet and eager band student for a day filled with fun only for them to hop in your car at the end smelling like they rolled in onions all day! Deodorant is YOUR BEST FRIEND! Keep some in your car, in your child's gear bag, EVERYWHERE!
During Band Camp
Be on time! If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. Please plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to each practice. Students will need to get prepared to head out to the field and start on time each day. Late arrival without prior director knowledge or approval could result in running laps and/or other consequences.
Hydration! Remember that hydration begins BEFORE practice each and every day. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink water. Stay ahead of the curve. Soda, juice and coffee are NOT a source of hydration and should be avoided.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast. High protein and high carb breakfast is best! Milk does a body good but not when it comes to marching band practice! Dairy just does not sit well in the stomach when it comes to the heat and exercise. Let's face it, no one likes hugging a toilet or trashcan so PLEASE avoid dairy as much as possible.
Ditto for Lunch and Snacks. Please pack healthy snacks and a lunch for your child to have throughout the day.
Reapply Deodorant and Sunscreen. Maybe twice. Make it three times over the course of a day's practice.
Bring Extra Clothes. Lots of kids like to swap out a sweaty shirt with a fresh one midway through a practice day.