It all started as an idea: to create a camp for kids combining martial arts, problem-solving, physical fitness, weapons training and team-building exercises.

The brainchild of Dr. Grant Smith, owner of Fountain Hills Martial Arts (FHMA), this idea evolved into Warrior Camp, an epic leadership training program that just completed its fourth year.

From July 13-16, more than 35 young leaders ages 10-18 experienced non-stop adventure at Camp Shadow Pines in Heber. From weapons qualification on rifle, pistol, axe and bow and arrow to hand-to-hand combat training, team problem-solving exercises, land navigation, knot-tying and first aid, as well as the infamous mud pit obstacle course, students were challenged to lead, follow, work as a team and continuously stretch the limits of their perceived capabilities.

In the past, Warrior Camp was an individual program. This year, it was organized by squad, modeled after military boot camp. Prior to camp, Smith and his team of counselors chose 11 warriors to serve as squad leaders and assistant squad leaders. These students underwent five hours of specialized leadership training, provided by FHMA, before assuming responsibility for their squads. Squad leaders Ben Baldwin, Derek Chapman, Loralai Colin, Noah Sehman and Marlee Spring each were charged with developing and motivating their teams, addressing problems within the squad, making sure their teams were prepared for training each day and making tough decisions throughout the day.

“Warrior Camp really taught me a lot about leadership and motivating different kinds of people,” says Baldwin, who led Alpha squad. “It was great to go through the pre-camp leadership training, then encounter some of the exact same scenarios at camp and have techniques for dealing with them. I feel much better prepared to take on leadership roles in other areas of my life after this year’s camp.”

Every warrior at camp grew in strength, confidence and leadership ability during their four days of training, according to organizers. On the last night when all the cadets converged around the campfire, locking arms in a circle of trust, many campers were already talking excitedly about next year.

“We have only scratched the surface of what we can do for these kids and what kind of leaders we are developing for years to come,” Smith said. “Look for Warrior Camp 2019 to be even bigger and better as we continue to grow and attract more future leaders to our unique program.”

For those with a child or grandchild who might be interested in Warrior Camp, call 602-499-3778 or stop by the FHMA studio at 11010 Saguaro N. Blvd.