By Kaitlyn Godsey and Becky Dixon
Sports Editor and Staff Writer

Before most students hit their snooze buttons, a few students are defying the teenage stereotype of laziness to interact and participate in team-building exercises.

These students are awake and working out with Outer Banks Boot Camp.

Students interact with adults, professionals, parents and business leaders from their community through Boot Camp, according to Matt Costa, owner and director of OBX Boot Camp.

“These kids work extremely hard,” Costa said. “Their attitude and maturity is leaps and bounds above their contemporaries.”

Outer Banks Boot Camp was started by owner of KnuckleUp OBX Morrison Butler and Matt Costa, after an early morning jog in 2008. The pair decided that the early morning time was perfect for a fitness program, before “the hustle and bustle of the new day,” Costa said.

Costa says Boot Camp participants take part in a multitude of activities including swimming, running, bicycling, preparation for marathons and triathlons and team-building exercises.

“It takes a positive attitude and a willingness to see a better you – no matter what your goals are,” Costa said.

Freshman Sarah Shotton participated in Boot Camp over the summer after one of her friends asked her to do it with her. Shotton then proceeded to participate in the youth level of the Boot Camp for three months during the summer.

“It was really cool knowing that while all of your friends are sleeping and eating breakfast, you’re running on the beach and watching the sun rise,” Shotton said. “The most rewarding thing was being healthy and getting exercise.”

Students who would like to become involved can contact Costa via e-mail at OuterBanksBootCamps@yahoo.com, by phone at (252) 489-8239 or by heading to KnuckleUp OBX.

”All you have to go is go to KnuckleUp and practically ask to sign up,” senior Samantha Drumm said.  “It’s $20 a session.”

Drumm joined Boot Camp after hearing her step-mother talking about it. Her desire to get in shape has taken her to the intermediate level.

“The most rewarding thing about Boot Camp is the feeling after you workout, and the family you acquire when you join boot camp,” Drumm said. “Everyone is so nice and they treat you like you’re family.”

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