WINNIHOCKEY Camp welcomes motivated and responsible hockey players ages 14–15 who are interested in being considered for selection into a limited number of available spots within our CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Leadership In Action Program.
Because the maximum age of a WINNIHOCKEY camper is 13, our CIT Leadership Program is intentionally designed as a two-year, two-grade leadership enrollment opportunity. This structure allows eligible candidates to grow, mature, and develop foundational leadership skills over time while maintaining appropriate age separation and clear expectations for campers, leaders, and staff.
This is a tuitioned, enrollment-based leadership experience in which a select group of applicants is offered a growth-focused opportunity to participate as a hybrid camper and junior leadership role, gaining valuable leadership and life skills under the guidance of our experienced staff.
This opportunity is aligned as a non-paid, leadership-based program. It is ideal for individuals who are responsible, demonstrate strong leadership qualities when guiding younger campers, and have a genuine passion for hockey, teamwork, and personal growth. Participation in the CIT Leadership In Action Program does not guarantee selection for paid staff positions in future summers. However, one- or two-year enrollment in the leadership program, combined with strong performance, a positive attitude, and meaningful leadership impact, may support future consideration for paid opportunities should appropriate roles become available. All staffing decisions are based on camp needs, availability, and overall fit.
If selected for an interview and offered the opportunity to enroll, the CIT role requires an operational leadership enrollment fee, which will be discussed with the applicant and their parent or guardian during the interview and selection process.
If accepted, the candidate and parent/guardian will receive an official onboarding email outlining next steps, including directions to:
Register through the camp portal as a CIT
Complete required onboarding forms
Submit the leadership enrollment fee
Enrollment is finalized once all onboarding steps are completed.
Selection for this tuition-based leadership experience is based on:
Program availability (limited number of spots per session)
Leadership capacity
Registration and enrollment completion
Demonstrated readiness, maturity, and overall performance
The program has a set number of available enrollment spots.
Responsibilities for CIT Hybrid Campers
Training & Arrival: CITs are expected to participate in all staff training sessions and welcome activities. CITs should arrive at camp by 9:00 AM on the first day and will be picked up by their parent or guardian following the closing ceremony on the final day of camp.
Dual Role Experience: CITs will alternate between participating, modeling, officiating, and supporting during skills sessions and camp activities. Responsibilities may include:
Assisting with drills, camp activities, officiating, skills work, and game competitions
Supporting Cabin Counselors during organized activities, meal times, shower hour, and lights-out routines
Helping guide and support assigned campers while serving as a positive beacon for the entire camp community
Emphasizing responsibility during meals, transitions, and across all daily activities
Mentorship: Each CIT will be paired with an experienced Cabin Counselor who will serve as a mentor throughout the week, providing guidance, feedback, and support.
Cabin Responsibilities: CITs are expected to be present in their cabins during designated rest times and overnight periods, supporting cleanliness, organization, and positive cabin culture.
Supervision & Role Modeling: CITs assist with supervision during hockey sessions, scheduled events, and in-cabin time. CITs are expected to be exemplary role models at all times and to consistently support Cabin Counselors and Senior Staff members.
Safety & Well-Being: CITs must help maintain a safe and respectful environment for all campers. Any concerns must be reported immediately to Camp Directors. Inappropriate behavior, bullying, or unsafe conduct is strictly prohibited.
Camp Guidelines: CITs must adhere to all camp rules, policies, and expectations set by the Executive Directors. Responsibilities may include assisting with instruction, supporting camper social-emotional needs, helping with hygiene and medical routines, supervising meal times, and participating in evening activities.
End-of-Camp Responsibilities: CITs will assist with end-of-camp responsibilities and will depart with their parent or guardian following the closing ceremony.
Parent / Guardian Involvement & Approval
Because this is a tuition-based, enrollment program and candidates are under the age of 18, an approving parent or guardian must be fully included throughout the process, including:
CC’d on the original email of interest and all inquiry communications
Participation in any anticipated virtual interview / References
Acceptance & Registration through the camp portal
Completion of the program enrollment fee
Ages 14–15 (completed 8th–9th grade)
Willingness to live in a cabin-based camp environment
Love of hockey and commitment to being a positive role model
Responsible and mature attitude
Strong experience and reputation as a student-athlete
Participation in athletic teams, school clubs, or student organizations
Ability to connect with campers and work collaboratively with staff
Strong communication skills
Previous camp or youth leadership experience is a plus
Interested candidates should submit an email of interest with the subject line: “WINNIHOCKEY CIT Leadership Program Candidate.”
Please include a brief statement explaining why you are a strong candidate for the CIT Leadership Program, relevant experience, and two references. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all leadership enrollment spots are filled.
We welcome families and candidates who are excited about leadership, responsibility, and contributing positively to the WINNIHOCKEY Camp community. The CIT Leadership In Action Program is designed to be a meaningful, intentional leadership experience focused on personal growth, mentorship, and making a lasting impact on camp culture.
If your child is accepted and enrolls in the program, they will not only gain valuable leadership experience, but also have an incredibly memorable time as an important part of our classic New England overnight camp tradition—building confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories along the way.
