Blue Ridge Energy, the member‑owned electric cooperative serving roughly 80,000 households across several North Carolina counties, announced that two middle school students from Watauga County would attend elite basketball camps at the state’s flagship universities this summer.
How the Winners Were Chosen
The scholarship program required applicants to submit essays, demonstrate strong academic records, and showcase involvement in extracurricular activities. Coaches and student‑athletes reviewed each submission, ensuring that the selected students combined scholarly promise with a passion for the game.
Camp Life on Campus
Kenlea Brown spent a week at the Women’s Wolfpack Basketball Camp at North Carolina State University, while Weaver Trivette participated in the Carolina Basketball Camp at the University of North Carolina. Both camps immersed the young athletes in collegiate training environments, offering daily drills, team‑building exercises, and a glimpse of campus life.
Beyond the Court
Beyond skill development, the camps emphasized leadership, sportsmanship, and academic enrichment. Participants attended workshops on time management and heard from university athletes about balancing schoolwork with competitive sports.
A Growing Tradition
The two Watauga County scholars joined more than 50 electric‑cooperative winners from across North Carolina, forming a statewide cohort of future leaders. Organizers highlighted the program’s role in fostering community ties and encouraging youth to pursue higher education.
As the summer draws to a close, the experience will likely influence the participants’ academic and athletic trajectories, reinforcing Blue Ridge Energy’s commitment to investing in the next generation.