It's that time of year again for the Union Pines' Viking Basketball Camp, which is being held this year at New Century Middle School from June 16 through 19.

Viking boys' basketball coach Bobby Purvis said the camp is the longest running one in the area.

"We have been doing this for over 30 years," he said. "It is an Individual skills camp with the goal being to help players who desire to develop their basketball skills and increase their knowledge of the game, while also making sure they are having fun."

The camp is open to rising third- to ninth-grade boys and girls. The campers will be lead by UPHS basketball players in station, activities and skill development sessions that concentrate on passing, shooting, dribbling and defense. There will also be games and skills competitions.

Each camper will receive a camp T-shirt, and an ice cream party will be held at the end of the camp. Registration for the camp is on Monday, June 16, from 8 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. Clinic times will run from 8:30 a.m. from 11:30 a.m. each day. The cost of the camp is $40.

Purvis asks that campers please register early by sending a check or money order to Union Pines Basketball: Attention Bobby Purvis.

The Union Pines High School address is 1981 Union Church Road, Cameron, N.C., 28326. The school's phone number is (910) 947-5511. Checks and money orders should be made payable to Union Pines High School.

The camp's staff includes Purvis, girls' basketball coach John Lewkowicz, current Union Pines' players and former players, and guest speakers.

Purvis feels the camp offers a great opportunity for the boys and girls to meet the coaches and players at Union Pines.

"The campers will also have an opportunity to ask questions, see the Viking uniforms and become familiar with the basketball program at Union Pines," he said. "Participants should come to the camp with a water bottle, basketball shoes, a towel and money for refreshments that will be sold during breaks and a positive attitude."