Rainy Day Tennis & Flag Football: adat ha-Kochavim and adat ha-Ilanot

This group of chanichim (campers) from adat ha-Kochavim and adat ha-Ilanot headed indoors when a sudden heavy rain began right at the start of their sports chugim (electives).  But fear not! The Chug Tennis Tzevet (staff) member, Eric Cistero (bio, below*), and Chug Flag Football Tzevet member Kent Baker (bio, below**) seamlessly adapted to the inclement weather, and led the energetic chanichim in some fun, physically active indoor games, pictured above and below.

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Tennis: Eric Cestero — Eric Cestero has been a tennis coach at Mount Holyoke College since 1997. In addition to his work with the tennis team, he has served as the assistant for the Lyons squash team since 2012.  During his time at MHC, Cestero has worked with head coach Aldo Santiago to help guide the Lyons to appearances in 14 of the last 16 NEWMAC Tennis Tournaments. Additionally, the squad has earned a playoff spot in 11 consecutive seasons, advancing to the tournament Semifinals in 2014.  Cestero has helped mentor a number of outstanding Mount Holyoke student-athletes, including a NEWMAC Player of the Year, three NEWMAC Rookies of the Year and countless All-Conference honorees.  Cestero also serves as the head coach for the South Hadley High School varsity girls’ tennis team. Since his arrival in 1997, he has guided the Tigers to six Divisional Championships, and to the Massachusetts State Finals in 2009.  In addition to his coaching duties, Cestero has served in a number of teaching positions. Most recently, he served as a physical education teacher at New Leadership Charter School (2008-11) and the High School of Commerce in Springfield (1999-07).  Cestero also spent 26 years as an associate professor and lecturer at the University of Puerto Rico at Bayamon. During that time, he served as the Acting Chairman for the Department of Physical Education and as a student advisor. He also supervised the Human Exercise Laboratory and developed, trained and supervised the Athletic Trainer’s Clinic.  Coach Cestero is excited to return for his third summer with us!

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Flag Football: Kent Baker — Kent Baker is excited to join the coaching staff at Camp Ramah in New England this kayitz! Coach Baker was a Division I sprinter at the University of Michigan and has extensive experience coaching youth sports. After college, Kent coached high school track and football teams in Detroit, Michigan. His accomplishments include leading five high school state championship teams in track and serving as a head high school football coach. He has coached at the collegiate level at Central Michigan University, University of Toledo, and Alfred State College. Kent looks forward to working with our chanichim (campers) to develop their football skills and share his passion for the game!