Wisconsin Youth Success Program (WYSP)

For the past thirty years WYSP has provided Chippewa Valley youth with an opportunity to develop their leadership, academic, and athletic skills. In addition to traditional sports such as basketball and softball, participants ages ten to sixteen years old receive specialized education on topics including drugs and alcohol and nutrition. They receive transportation to camp at no charge (if they are in the Eau Claire and Altoona School Districts) and also receive two federally-subsidized meals on site. In addition, each camper may receive a free medical examination and dental cleaning and screening.

One unique feature of WYSP at UW-Eau Claire is our Senior Program a component designed specifically to meet the changing needs of our thirteen to sixteen year old participants. Senior Program activities include special opportunities not available to younger participants, including training in the Crest Fitness Center on campus, access to the campus climbing wall, and guidance in resume-writing and personal finance.

History

In 1968, representatives of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports piloted the WYSP concept during the summer at two university athletics facilities. On March 17, 1969, the White House announced that the federal government was committing $3 million to establish a sports program for economically disadvantaged youth, to be called the National Youth Sports Program. The federal grant has significantly increased since then, and strong congressional support remains for WYSP objectives. Funding appropriations are renewed on an annual basis.

WYSP Creed

"I am a good sport at all times and conduct myself with decency and honesty. I do my best to get along with others and have pride in myself. I put forth my best effort in all competition and always compete fairly." 

"Walk Tall, Talk Tall, Stand Tall!"