Every summer at SMMR has its own energy.
The things that students and leaders know and love are still there, powerful sessions, time with your group, the beach, and moments that stay with you long after camp ends. But every year, we also listen closely to your feedback and make intentional improvements based on what you’re experiencing. Because of that, each summer continues to evolve in ways that make the week even more impactful.
For 2026, one of the biggest additions is something built to bring even more energy, connection, and shared moments throughout the week.
Introducing Squad Wars
This year, every student and leader will be part of something bigger than just their group.
Squad Wars is a week-long experience where students are placed into squads and compete throughout camp. These squads will show up across the entire week, not just in one moment, but in multiple parts of the BigStuf experience.
Throughout the week, squads will have opportunities to earn points through:
- Games during free time
- Challenges and moments during sessions
- A second late night experience built around Squad Wars
- Showing up with creativity and energy for their squad
By the end of the week, one squad will come out on top.
But this is not just about winning.
Why This Changes the Week
One of the most impactful parts of camp is the shared experience. The moments everyone talks about, laughs about, and remembers together.
Squad Wars is designed to create more of those moments.
It gives students:
- A reason to step out of their comfort zone
- A way to connect with people outside of their immediate group
- A shared identity for the week
- More opportunities to engage throughout the day
It also brings a different kind of energy into free time and late night, making the entire week feel more connected and intentional.
More Than Just Competition
At its core, BigStuf has always been about more than just activities.
Squad Wars adds energy and fun, but it also creates space for something deeper. When students are part of something together, barriers come down faster. Conversations happen more naturally. Relationships form in ways that might not have happened otherwise.
The competition is just the surface.
What happens underneath it, connection, community, and shared experience, is what makes it meaningful.
Still Everything You Love About BigStuf
While Squad Wars is new, the foundation of BigStuf remains the same.
Students can still expect:
- High-energy worship and relevant teaching
- Small group time to process and apply what they are learning
- Free time on the beach, at the pool, and in rec spaces
- Late nights that build connection and community
The difference this year is how everything ties together.
Looking Ahead to Summer 2026
Every year has moments that define it. This year, Squad Wars is set to be one of those moments. Something students will talk about during the week and remember long after they leave.
If you are already signed up, start thinking about how your group will show up. If you are not yet registered, there are still spots available for BigStuf 2026.
This summer is shaping up to be something special.
