Beginning on Monday, July 10, and running until Friday, July 14, boys and girls ranging from ages 6-15 have been receiving hands on basketball training from Bogues and other coaches at Charlotte Bobcats Arena in the Muggsy Bogues Basketball Camp.

“I started this camp because it was something I didn’t have when I was a youngster,” said Bogues. “I know how important it can be to have someone take an interest in showing you something you are interested in. That’s why I always want to give back to youngsters.”

And 16 years later, Bogues camp is still running strong.

“This camp means a great deal, because it keeps me energetic and it keeps me in that mode where you are giving back,” he said. “Anytime you can give back, share your knowledge and have the kids hopefully benefit from it, it’s always a treat for yourself.”

Bogues and his staff share a full day with the children, running from 8:30 a.m. until Noon for ages 6-9 and 1:00-4:30 p.m. for ages 10-15.

During the camp, not only do children learn the fundamentals of basketball, but they also learn the importance of practice and team play from Bogues himself.

“Oh yeah, I’m always hands on throughout the camp,” exclaims Bogues. “This is my 16th year doing this basketball camp, and I get very excited around this time because I enjoy giving back to the youth. And it’s for the love of the game.

“They get the basic principles of dribbling, shooting, defense, how to rebound and check out early on, so when they get older it’s something that can register for them.”

The kids aren’t the only ones having a good time this week. Coaches enjoy the camp just as much as the children. Many repetitive attendees loved the camp so much they became coaches.

“All the coaches are really enthusiastic. It’s really exciting -- it’s fun to be here,” coach Ryan Carson said. “It’s also really nice having it in Bobcats Arena. This camp is really good for kids because they learn the fundamentals of basketball and also have a good time.”

Not only is this camp meaningful to Bogues and his coaches, but it also has an equal significance to the children.

“This camp means everything to me because I love basketball,” said 14-year-old Tim Stanley. “I’ve been looking forward to this ever since school ended. They have people who like to work with kids.”

Eight-year-old Christian Sims also looked forward to learning new basketball moves in camp this summer.

“I liked everything about the camp, and I really liked the games,” he said. “I learned to penetrate when I get the ball and to go down the lane.”

“It’s great to see that they want to learn,” Bogues said. “It’s new to them, but at the same time, they are excited about it and want to get better -- that’s what it’s all about.”