Golf Camp History

5The New England Golf and Tennis Camp is located on the grounds of the former Kennebec Camps, founded in 1907. Originally founded as a camp to escape the sweltering heat of the summer at the turn of the last century, Kennebec developed over the years to become one of the preeminent sports and adventure camps in the northeast. Kennebec was very fortunate to have tremendous leadership over the years including long time Director Lou Fleisher and then later Harry Meyers. Through the years and several changes in ownership, the one constant was always a dedication to the development of campers as individuals. Many Kennebec campers have gone on to be quite successful and many credit the valuable life lessons learned on the shores of Salmon Lake in Belgrade, Maine.

In 1985 Kennebec began a new chapter when Joel Lavenson purchased the camp. In 1997 led by the creativity and perseverance of Joel and Crista Lavenson, Kennebec was transformed into the Maine Golf and Tennis Academy. MGTA was a very unique specialty camp that combined professional specialty sports training and traditional summer camping, truly the best of both worlds.

14Today the unique concept of MGTA still exists as the New England Golf and Tennis Camp. Led by the owner and director, Bob Siff, NEGTC combines cutting edge professional instruction with the incredible warmth and support of a traditional summer camp. The current leadership team is very excited to continue the proud legacy of “The Kennebec Camps”, to provide each child with the opportunity of personal growth and an outstanding camp experience.