Phone-Free Camp: Building Stronger Connections

At ODAC’s training camp, athletes check their phones at the door. In a world where notifications and screens constantly compete for attention, this unplugged approach creates something rare: a team that is fully present, focused, and more connected than ever.

The First Challenge: Letting Go of Phones

The first hurdle of camp isn’t a tough workout—it’s handing over phones. Reactions range from nervous laughter and jokes about “surviving the week” to real anxiety about being disconnected. For many athletes, their phone is a comfort in awkward moments or a lifeline to home. Others, who’ve been through phone-free camp before, help ease the tension by preparing teammates for what’s ahead.

From Awkward Silence to Real

Conversations

Once the phones are gone, the shift is noticeable. Mealtimes and downtime begin with a bit of uncomfortable silence as kids figure out what to do with their hands and where to look. But that awkwardness doesn’t last long.

Soon, teammates are talking, sharing stories, and problem-solving together—figuring out how to wake up on time without a phone alarm, relying on roommates or camp wake-up calls. Small talk turns into deeper conversation, inside jokes are born, and genuine connections begin to form.

"No phones creates space for focus, resilience, and connection—allowing our athletes to lock in on the work and lean on each other when it matters most. As a swimmer who attended camps like this, I saw firsthand how being unplugged builds mental toughness and prepares athletes for the moments that test them most." -Coach Boo Boo

Team Bonding Throughout Camp

Without digital distractions, every shared moment becomes an opportunity to bond. Meals turn into lively discussions. Downtime is filled with games, team activities, and coaching sessions instead of scrolling. Team excursions, like bowling, create shared memories. Even in practice, athletes are more engaged—cheering louder, supporting one another, and giving focused feedback. They aren’t just training together; they’re becoming a true team.

Focus, Recovery, Mental Health and Performance

Unplugged athletes are not only more present, less distracted, and more responsive to coaching but recovery time is more intentional, focus is sharper, and sessions are more productive. Watching this transformation firsthand has been powerful—not just as a parent, but for the coaching staff as well, who notice the elevated performances and increased engagement. One of the most noticeable benefits of the phone-free experience is improved sleep and overall well-being. Without screens, athletes are falling asleep faster and waking up more refreshed. As the days progress, energy levels rise, stress decreases, and confidence grows. The absence of constant digital noise allows space to reflect, reset, and recharge—an important advantage as the team prepares for Short Course Championships in March.

“It’s felt like we could really immerse ourselves in our camp but also rely on each other to get through it!” -Maggie Wright, ODAC Swimmer

Leadership from the Coaches

Coaches Steve, Craig and BooBoo play a key role in guiding athletes through the unplugged experience. They explain the purpose behind it and create meaningful moments that bring the team closer. One such moment came after a tough evening practice, when athletes received letters from home—written by parents ahead of camp. The timing couldn’t have been better, offering encouragement, comfort, and a reminder that even without their "digital lifelines" support from home is never far away.

Why It Matters

ODAC’s phone-free training camp allows for a competitive advantage. Athletes are not just physically present—they’re mentally and emotionally engaged. They build trust, sharpen focus, and develop resilience, carrying those lessons well beyond the season ahead.

In a world that never stops buzzing, our athletes learned something powerful: connection doesn’t need a screen, focus doesn’t need WiFi, and some of the best growth happens when you’re fully present—together.

Blog and photos from Mike McNabb. 12/30/25

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