John Calipari warned fathers not to overdo it at the Father/Daughter Camp. (Tina Cox Photo)
John Calipari took the microphone and welcomed the night session of his Father/Daughter camp. After a few short opening remarks he stated the most important guidelines for the dads to follow.
“Make sure you take Advil when we get finished tonight so you will be able to come back tomorrow. Remember you are not 25 years old anymore. Most importantly, if you feel something pop, tear or break stop. This includes your hips, knees, and achilles.”
The girls all giggled and the dads looked at each other knowing exactly what he meant.
The first time I can remember the term Girl Dad was immediately following the death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter. In an interview with ESPN anchor Elle Duncan, Kobe was quoted as saying “I would have five more girls if I could. I’m a Girl Dad.”
The hashtag #GirlDad became a national trend and dads throughout the world were wearing their Girl Dad t-shirts. The shirts were one of the most popular at the camp. Some were even more personal by stating, Kentucky Girl Dad, matching the one UK assistant coach Orlando Antigua wore during his first interview after returning to the Kentucky staff.
It is hard to determine who enjoys this camp the more, the fathers or the daughters. The dads lined up along the side of the court, cameras in hand to record their daughters playing five-on-five with the current Wildcats. They cheered as the girls attempted to score and were visibly into the short scrimmage.
There were high fives, stretching, sprinting, and free throws. All participants were placed on teams (with their partner) and the competitions began. They cheered for each other and embraced success. They helped each other up if there was a fall but the most common denominator among the campers was the smiles on their faces.
There was one father in attendance with three daughters participating in the camp. This meant he had to do every drill, stretch, and game three times. He never hesitated. Although he was out of breath, he continued on as daughters all embraced him with a hug.
Kentucky is one of the few, if not the only, university to offer the Father/Daughter Camp. I googled and could not find another school that does. So when you are wondering if Coach Cal gets it, yes he does. I am sure all ‘Girl Dads’ would agree.
— Tina Cox, Contributing Writer
