Paisley’s Story: The Little Girl Who Found Big Confidence at Fusion Camp
At 11 years old, Paisley is a familiar face at Fusion Camp. For the past three years, she’s spent her school holidays at the Longtoft camp in Stainforth and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She first came along when she was just 8 years old. A little shy and unsure of what to expect, Paisley quickly found a place where she felt safe, welcomed, and able to be herself. Now, three years on, Fusion Camp is more than just something to do during the holidays, it’s where Paisley feels confident, happy, and proud of how far she’s come.
An Environment That Inspires Growth
Fusion Camps are run by Active Fusion and take place every school holiday. Thoughtfully designed, the camps provide children with a safe, inclusive and engaging environment to stay active, learn new skills and build lasting friendships.
Each day is packed with a wide variety of sports, games and creative activities, from football, dodgeball and basketball to scavenger hunts, paper plane competitions, archery, arts & crafts and brand-new games like Danish Longball and Kick Rounders. There’s truly something for every child, and that’s exactly what keeps Paisley coming back.
“I really love coming to Fusion Camp because it’s so much fun and there’s always something new to try.” said Paisley.
Curing Holiday Boredom
Paisley stays active during the school term through PE lessons, after-school clubs and dance classes, but like many children, the school holidays can bring a drop in daily activity and social connection. Fusion Camp fills that gap by providing a regular, structured environment where Paisley can stay active, meet new people, and keep learning, all while having fun. She says she loves the variety and excitement of each day, especially the chance to try new sports she wouldn’t normally get to experience at school or home.
From Participant to Positive Role Model
Over her time at camp, Paisley has grown in ways that go far beyond sports skills. She’s gained confidence, resilience and leadership qualities that have been noticed by the coaching team.
Coach Tea, who has seen Paisley grow over the past three years, shared: “Paisley came to us as a bright but slightly shy 8-year-old. Since then, we’ve seen a big shift in her confidence. She’s become someone who encourages others and takes the lead in team activities. Her positivity is infectious, and other children are naturally drawn to her.”
Coach Nathan, one of the newer members of the team, also commented: “She’s been a real credit to the group. From day one, Paisley showed kindness and maturity. She was always the first to help others and brought a great energy to everything we did.”
A Lasting Impact That Goes Beyond Camp
What Paisley has gained from camp goes far beyond the holiday weeks themselves. The skills, confidence and relationships she’s developed have stayed with her and will continue to shape her journey. Fusion Camp has helped her grow into a confident, kind, and capable young person who looks forward to each new holiday not just for the fun, but for the friendships and the feeling of belonging. As she looks ahead to the next school break, there’s no doubt she’ll be back.
Read more stories like Paisley’s here or discover more about Fusion Camps here.