Parties Testimonials
I just had to write you a note to let you know how much we enjoyed the party Blake had for Taylor’s birthday at OYA. First off, your venue is beautiful! So well kept and the grounds are just lovely. I loved the look of the high top tables in this outdoor setting. What a perfect set-up for kids and adults to really have an action-packed good time. Our bartender, Jordan and the supervisor working that evening were so helpful. I appreciated all they did to make things run so smoothly.
I have told so many friends to consider your facility when looking for a party venue. Something different and great service. It seems like a hundred years ago when my kids were working there, but I’m so happy that Oakland Yards just keeps getting better and better.
Hats off to you for your success. Sincerely, Catherine Woods, Blake’s mom
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Hi Guys, I just wanted to send a sincere thank you to you both and your AMAZING staff! Our group had such a good time, we cant wait to come back. Patty was literally the best and everyone there helping was amazing!
Kelly G.
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I walked into the most amazing, humbling, beautiful celebration at Oakland Yard on Saturday, and it is my understanding that YOU had a great deal to do with it, having donated the use of the facility and such generous Auction items to generate funds for the Stepanski Scholarship. That was so kind of you—Thank you very much. (Your staff was wonderful, as well!) And as long as I’m thanking you—I am also grateful for the years that Hayden was employed at Oakland Yard, under your direction. You were a terrific employer for Hayden, setting high standards for him, giving him direction when needed, supporting him when life would get rough, and recognizing him as a diligent worker. Thank you for offering him the perfect initial work experience. I hope that you and your family have a terrific summer—Thank you again! :)
Monica Hungerford.
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The party was fantastic. And Food was great. Turned out I knew James Allen's, sister Kelly -- very well! He did a really nice job on the spread. I would hire him again for other events.
Your staff was awesome (they always are!) and so hospitable and accommodating. We all appreciated the staff.
My family said they had a GREAT time... they said that it was the best event of the four day reunion and they loved learning about Oakland Yard and I think they played every game out there! Volleyball, Soccer, basketball, football and the ropes. And even some of the adults enjoyed the slip and slide. There was something for
everyone and even our two handicapped family members (who are confined to wheelchairs) could travel around so easily. They loved being out there--everything was so handicap accessible.
Phillip, I must commend you on a wonderful venue and wonderful service. I love going to Oakland Yard.
I will call you again to bring our youth group there as we have done before.
Thanks again Philip and enjoy your summer.
Jane Shallal.
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I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for another wonderful party. The venue was beautiful and the service was exceptional! I cannot say enough wonderful things about Patty and Tracey. They could not have been more helpful. It was nearly 90 degrees and Tracy had her hands full filling drinks but she kept everyone hydrated and did it with a smile. Our guests were very impressed with her- especially when she would not take a tip! Patty was a lifesaver with set up and clean up and was wonderful to keep us in ice and taking care of all of the details with a smile. Thank you thank you thank you!
I will continue to tell my friends and family what a great place this is to host an event - even though most of them got to see it for themselves.
Thank you for making the day run so smoothing and for once again exceeding our expectations.
Samantha Hubarth & family.
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It was the most fantastic party ever!
Xylo F, age 9.
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There are no words for how wonderful our party was. Your cook, (is it Patty?), Grace, and all your staff was unbelievably nice, overly helpful, pleasant and they entire experience was unforgettable. I have an older daughter who had a party at a different facility when she was in 5th grade, it was nothing compared to having it at the OY. And you make it very affordable!!! If you have a place for customer ratings, or reviews, please let me know. I’m happy to share how wonderful our experience was. Thanks again for everything!
Kim Mahaney and the entire 5th Grade Class at Schoolcraft Elementary!!
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I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for an amazing evening! Everyone had such a great time! I'm sure you will have more business in the future based on the response from last night. I'll send pictures when I get them. Thank you again! You and your staff are the best!!
Kim Harbaugh
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Dear Philip, On behalf of the Waterford School District I would like to thank you for your generous contribution towards our PreK-12 Principal's event, held August 13, at your facility! These staff activities which are held after hours on occasion throughout the year to build a positive network of team support within our organization.
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Oakland Yard's donation of food, beverage, and activities; including the use of your facility, provided an evening of fun and enjoyment for our entire staff. Our business and community partnerships are invaluable to us and we want to thank you again for your support and continued commitment to the students and staff of Waterford School District.Best wishes!
Lisa McFee - Assistant Superintendent, Teaching and Learning Services.
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Everyone had a great time. Some of the parents told me their kids even cried when it was time to go. I think it’s safe to say we will be looking to come back next year. Thank you!
Sarah Gibbs - Senior Manager, Human Resources, MDT.
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Thank you very much for such a wonderful day for hosting siblings of special needs children and immigrant refugee children. Your staff was so hospitable to and so inclusive of all the youth. Our youth had an absolutely fantastic day at Oakland Yard and many, who were new immigrants to the U.S., learned about sports to which they have never had exposure. Many also made new friends with other children whom had had similar life situations. Your staff was extremely polite and professional and the food was delicious. Thank you again so much for your wonderful hospitality and making this day bright for these youngsters who have faced difficult challenges in their life. I thought you might be interested in some things reflected in our survey. The following are some of the results:
1. Did you enjoy your day today? (100% of the children enjoyed their day)
2. Did you meet a new friend? (91% of the children met a new friend.)
3. Did you learn about a new sport? (83% of the children learned a new sport)
Children’s favorite part:
• The slip-and-slide: ( 57% )
• Playing soccer: ( 43% )
• Basketball: ( 14% )
Some of the remarks made by our youth:
• "This was the best day of my entire life."
• "I've never been so happy. This is the most fun I'll ever have."
• "Can we do this again every week?"
• “You guys are so nice. Thank you for taking us.”
• “The slip-and-slide was so much fun. I want one at my house.”
Jane Shallal, Chaldean American Ladies of Charity Troy, MI
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We had our son's birthday party there [Oakland Yard Athletics] yesterday. It was AMAZING! The kids had a blast! Our party host was great with all the boys and it was so awesome that he played with the kids. 20 seven year olds can be a handful, but he handled it like a pro! We can't say enough great things about OYA! Everyone there is awesome!
Nancy Patterson Stauffer
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I just wanted to let you know that Chase and all of his friends had so much fun at his party on Sunday! Me and all the parents were impressed by Steven and the staff, they were amazing with kids and just wanted to let you know how great they really were! Thanks again!!
Sienna Swanson
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Jeff and I just wanted to email and say what a great time we had today at Oakland Yard celebrating Robbie's 6th birthday. The kids had such a fun time running around on the field, and James Kennedy was an awesome host! James was super engaging on the field with the kids during game time, and he coordinated the pizza, drinks and cake like a pro. Sam, Ryan and Lindsey were all very helpful too- they made sure we had pitchers of water near the field, checked in with us to make sure we had what we needed, and helped guests find their way to the party. We are so glad we were able to celebrate at Oakland Yard and will always remember the day- thank you for making this happen!
Diane and Jeff Katakowski
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Max had a great time! Thanks so much for putting together a great party...many parents/kids have never been to your facility before and have expressed great interest based on their experience from Max's b-day! Your staff was very accommodating, even when they realized I ordered lemonade for the kids and that you had run out...they quickly arranged a way to get fruit punch since many of the kids are not allowed to drink soda! I really appreciated that! So all in all, everyone had fun! Thanks again!
Lana
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I can not tell you how many of the pre-teens said they had fun. It was a totally different experience. No dressing up for dance parties, just a casual day to spend outdoors with 60 of their best friends. The weather cooperated and the event was great. Ellen and I could not have been more pleased.
I think the secret is out about Oakland Yard to the Berkley/ Huntington Woods kids. Thank you so much for working with all of us. Your staff is great. Ian and Joey want to come out next summer and try the slip and slide.
Howard
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I wanted to tell you how great everything turned out for our party at Oakland Yard yesterday. The setting was perfect and each of your staff was great. They literally greeted us in the parking lot and offered to help us out in any way they could. They were extremely efficient and friendly.
All of the kids at the party enjoyed playing on the fields and courts, while the younger kids loved the slip and slide. Dylan told us that the party was exactly what he wanted it to be. We really appreciate all you did to help us. I would tell anyone to have their party at your venue.
Denise Larkin
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I just wanted to tell you what an awesome time we all had! The staff for the party was awesome! They were friendly, kept the bathrooms and garbage picked-up and were very attentive when we needed something!
I can’t tell you how many people commented on what a great venue Oakland Yard was to have a party. I told several people about the awesome summer camps you have for kids also. I can tell you that we will be looking at dates for our next son’s graduation party in 2015.
Thank you, thank you, thank you to you and all the staff on June 16th – we all had an awesome time!
Tracey Brabandt
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I just wanted to THANK YOU and tell you what a GREAT time we had having our Graduation Party at your facility. Between Lutheran High Northwest's all night party and the Grad Party for the (3) kids...I have gotten nothing but positive feed back from everyone.
It was a BLAST, all of your staff was of Great Help on both occasions. I am sure Northwest will be looking at Oakland Yard next year and I have already had (2) people want more information about how we did our party, I'm sure you will end up with a few booking for next year from this.
You hooked us up, and definitely have it going on with all your activities.Thank you once again....it was AWESOME!!!
Eric - Kim & Austin Kindsvater
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Thank you again for a spectacular day on Sunday. You and your staff did a stellar job to ensure that everything went smoothly for our family's celebration. Jeremy thanked us and said he could not have imagined a better bar mitzvah party. He thanked you personally because he knew that you took the party to another level by opening up the slip 'n slide. That is something that he and his friends (and family!) will always remember.
I am so grateful for the foresight you had in suggesting that we keep the party outside rather than move into the dome for the afternoon. You earned my trust from the first day we met by being sincere and straightforward with me. I knew that I could trust your instinct and sure enough, you steered us in the right direction throughout the planning process.
From the first time we met, your honesty and integrity were apparent. I appreciated you giving me a list of people I could call to find out what their experiences were like at Oakland Yard. Without exception, every person I contacted had only good things to say about you and about Oakland Yard. As a venue for our son's bar mitzvah party, it was perfect. We've had numerous people, both kids and adults alike, tell us that it was the best bar mitzvah party they had ever attended. While we are not in a competition to be the 'best' at party planning, it still feels nice to hear such high praise!!
Thank you for allowing us to feel 'at home' at our own party. Our family has been calling and emailing to thank us and to tell us what a great time they had this weekend. We've also received calls and emails from parents of the kids who attended to tell us what a fantastic time they had. As first-timers at this, we could not have asked for a better person than you to help make our day so outstanding.
Philip, thank you for everything. For your support and understanding, and for your patience with all of the back-and-forth emails and my redundant questions. You run a top-notch facility and your crew reflects the values that you represent: kindness, respect, and sincerity. For all of this and more, we are grateful. Thank you for everything!!
Karen and Howard Rosenberg
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Jack and his friends had a blast! I've been thinking about getting back to you to tell you that everything was awesome but I've been busy with the little guy who was home sick from school today. Perhaps he had too much fun? Anyway, he is back on the mend- a quick 24 hour thing.
So thank you so much for everything! Drew, Tyler and everybody else that helped out was great and went above and beyond. I will definitely recommend to my friends to have a party at Oakland Yard. My husband, Jeff, and I were even thinking it would be fun to have an adult party there. The boys had fun in mediocre weather- I can only imagine how great it must be with nice weather. Thanks again!
Amy
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OMG....Thank you...Thank you....Thank you.... Everyone had a BLAST!!!!! It was awesome. All of her friends FB'd.....telling her how much fun it was...It was the best party ever!!! The staff was fabulous!! Thanks again for everything!
MC
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Thank you Phillip he had a great time. We all had a great time. Your two assistants rocked.. They were great with the kids. Me and the wife talked about that alot the last two days. If my other two boys want to do something like this we will definitely do it. Great experience, great time, great staff. Thank you!
Aaron
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As for the picnic, everything was absolutely amazing.
I have heard nothing but good things about the atmosphere that you created at this picnic. I came out of this looking as if I knew what I was doing. Thanks for everything.
I am positive that we will be back.
Juan Webb - Williams International
Camps Testimonials
Thank you all for creating very special, connective, healthy, fun experiences for Saifah! We totally see and feel that the space you offer is unique and safe, and the sense of community and healthy vibe is what we are all really starving for. It's become rare in our individualistic society. For that reason, we see you as masters with elevated importance and care. For Saifah, this was not just camp; this was an American experience that far exceeded our expectations, and he will carry all of that with him in his heart, shaping who he is and how he affects other people on the other side of the planet. Yes, your reach extends that far!
The camp coaches said goodbye to him, and I could see the energy coming out of Saifah. As he was walking out for the gate, Marty said goodbye to him, and Saifah could hardly look at him. On the walk to the car, I asked Saifah if he were unhappy about something. He responded, " I'm just really really sad that it's all over".
Indeed, all these weeks, Monday couldn't come soon enough for Saifah. He just loves EVERYONE at Oakland Yard Camp. We even asked him who his favorite coach was, and he said, "I like them ALL!". This is an amazing measure of the magic you create. Thank you so much - you are all have created something lasting for us all. Love, Jay and Nam S. 2023
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"Henry said it was “GREAT. A 360 five hundred times! No infinity times!!” He just got interested in skateboarding and now he’s hooked. I cannot believe how much he learned. he’s watching the x games and talking about coming back next year and to BMX class too." - Jen R. 2019
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"Addison is so ready for summer camp!! She had a blast last summer!!" - Amanda C, 2019
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"My kids look forward to Oakland Yard Youth Camp every year! They come home excited and absolutely love the programs they signed up for and their camp counselors. Always eager to try new programs the following year!! Can't wait for camp 2020!!" - Amanda S, 2019
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"My kids love it at Oakland yard everyday they are there they tell me how much fun they had and that all the camp counselors are so nice. The staff is super nice and welcoming. Thank you Oakland yard for helping my kids summer be even more fun." - Nikki M, 2019
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"Thank you, thank you, thank you to the amazing staff at Oakland Yard Athletics for an incredible summer experience. My 5 yr old has become a better little human thanks to your patience, guidance, knowledge and skill. I could not have asked for a better group of people to spend their days with my child. We look forward to seeing you next summer." - Christine K, 2019
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"We did three weeks over the course of the summer, and each day the kids came home with epic tales of the fun they had in camp, on the slip n slide, making sand castles, and just having a blast. Basically everything a kids summer should be.
They are already planning out what camps they want to try next year, and the year after.
Thank you for another amazing summer! You guys are all awesome!" - Stephanie J, 2019
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"Coach Ashley, Coach Steph and ALL of the coaches and staff are AMAZING!! My boys loved sports camp, car town, soccer and free style camp! And the water slide is extra fun! ❤❤ love this camp! Thank you!" - Alicia L, 2019
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"My daughter had a great time at volleyball camp this week! She did breakfast club all week and stayed for freestyle a couple days, both add ones were great! She’s already asked if she can go another week this summer and for sure wants to go come back next summer...she’s even already talking about being a CIT when she’s 13. Thanks OYA for a great week!" - Becky C, 2019
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"My daughter is in the Jr. Golf Camp & having a great experience. As soon as you arrive to drop off your child for day camp, you can just tell they are going to have a fun filled day! The staff and counselors are super friendly & caring and you can tell they enjoy what they do. My girl has learned a lot about the sport & the kids’ golfing time seems to be nicely balanced out with a lot of other fun camp activities. Besides proudly telling us what she’s learned about the sport, she loves the slip & slide, ropes course, & joke-story time. We’re totally looking forward to another sports camp there later this summer, and foresee lots of fun in summers to come... Thanks OYA!" - Melinda H, 2019
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"Best variety in day camps available! A lot of opportunity to allow children to pursue experiences based on their interests. This is our 4th summer here and we love it." - Teri A, 2019
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"Staff is excellent and the kids have a great time. We drive from royal oak because we like the camp so much!" - Tracy W, 2019
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"The summer camp programs are amazing! There is a huge variety and the activities are themed so well for each camp. I love that there is a great mix of physical activities and creative projects. The drop-off and pick-up systems are well supervised." - Alexandra L, 2019
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"Initially (in 2016), my teaching partner who lives in Waterford handed me the OY booklet raving about the summer camps and told me I HAD to sign up Miles. I did and we sort of never turned back. We've returned each year because the camp staff is enthusiastic, kid appropriate, never on their cell phones (unless checking IDs) and generally make our kid feel loved and want to return. As teachers, we know that maintaining that outwardly happy, outgoing, fun-loving spirit can be very difficult as the school year (summer in your case) wears on, but your staff are doing a really great job and we appreciate that they've been great role models for our son in showing him how to treat others." - Katie S, 2019
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Your facility, staff and personal attention are fabulous! We'll be your raving fans. Brought some cousins and friends to join my kids this week. We love your camps!
Heather G.
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I am writing to tell you how pleased we were with our sports camp experience! Our sons took golf summer camp, and really enjoyed the golf and the “camp freestyle” afterward. We work in Waterford, but live in Rochester, and the extra effort to get them to the camp was well worth it!
The checking in and checking out procedures are the best we have encountered – we knew the boys were very safe. The staff was also very accommodating to a last minute “freestyle” add on.
Also, our boys are fairly picky eaters yet raved about the camp lunches! We will certainly be looking forward to taking more camps next summer!
Cathy R.
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Thank you for making it a great summer for Cameron! He loved it like he did last year and he is already telling me which camps next year will bring! Thanks again for keeping him safe!
Jessica LaFlamme
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Thanks again for letting Charlee come to camps!! She truly enjoyed herself each day and never wanted to leave. It was a bit weird at first being on the customer side of summer camps instead of the staff side though. But then again, knowing some of the ins and outs that go into running them, I appreciated the experience Charlee had even more. We would roll our eyes when you and Philip would tell us to say the kids names when greeting them in the morning….I get it now, not only did it make me feel at ease that the counselors knew my kid by Tuesday, it also made Charlee smile when counselors she didn’t even have knew who she was. :).
Speaking of mornings, oh my gosh did I love the basketball court meeting each morning and the signs for each camp, so much easier to find where your kid is supposed to go. Nice addition. Long list of compliments cut short, the two weeks she was there were fantastic, the changes you’ve made since my time there have really improved the camps. I’m not sure when the changes were implemented I’m guessing recently on a few of them, kudos and well done to Nikki as well. She’s done a wonderful job! Thanks again Marty!!
Steph
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I wanted to share how great your camp experience was for us. The organization of the many campers, security measures, great staff and overall quality was impressive. Thank you for all if the hard work that I know goes into achieving this! We look forward to coming back!!
Erin Cameron
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Thank you so much! My boys just love it at Oakland yard! You guys do such an amazing job! I always tell other parents how fantastic it is! Thanks again!
Gena Roberts
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Oakland Yard sets the bar in Northern Oakland County for youth summer camp. From its dedicated, energetic, staff to its camp offerings, this is the place to send your kids in the summer. There aren't any other camps in the area that have the amenities, variety, activities, or convenience that Oakland Yard has....and trust me, I've done my homework!
As a working parent, I don't ever need to worry about packing lunch, snacks, or water. This will be our kids 3rd consecutive year attending a full summer at the Yard, and they cannot wait! They come home every day worn out, happy, and excited for the next day. I strongly recommend this program.
Rose Moshier
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My son has been coming to OYA every summer since he was 4! He is 12 now! And he still loves it!
Karen S. McMurray
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Love this place! The camps are great and the counselors are wonderful.
DeAnna Heski Kirksey
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If you are looking for an awesome place for the summertime, this is it!!! Tons of things to do, and they definitely have the market cornered on polite, pleasant, fun counselors & coaches!!!
Melanie Faucher Provencher
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I have been going with my boys for the past three years and I just love Oakland Yard Athletics the staff and activities there are the best. My kids love it there. They're so good to me I can't say enough good things about that place. Thank you for taking care of my boys.
Natalie Tschudin
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I enrolled my 3 yr old Daughter Marci in the Balance Bike Camp Session 1 & 2. And Becca was her counselor. I can not sing enough praises at what a FANTASTIC Job she did with her campers. She is very energetic and enthusiastic about her job. The second session she had quite a rambunctious group of kids (boys) and she was able to handle the chaos (and it got crazy). Marci loved "Miss Becca" and constantly asks about her and when she can go to camp again. That isn't in our plans for the rest of the summer. But I would like to give credit where it is due.
Please relay our gratitude to Miss Becca, and please recognize her for the fantastic Job she is doing. I love all the camps offered, and definitely will be sending Marci again next year, especially if you continue to employ such fantastic counselors like Becca. Thank you!
Tina Grossman
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Please let me take this opportunity to tell you how pleased we are with the service you provide. My kids love coming to OYA! They have already informed me they would like to return again next year. I like the variety of the camps and afternoon activities that are offered for the kids. Not only are they exposed to different sports and activities but it keeps their attention level and I never have to hear they are bored during the summer. They love your team. All of the counselors and staff are friendly, positive and good role models for the kids. I hear stories in the evening about different interactions the kids have with the counselors that are almost always accompanied with some giggles. My husband and I appreciate knowing the kids are safe, well taken care of, entertained and exposed to so many positive experiences when we are at work.
Lydia Glusko
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We want to thank the entire Oakland Yards team for offering such wonderful youth programs! Our Children are currently participating in a few different camps and Friday night soccer . We could not be more pleased with the camp counselors and soccer coaches. The staff is AMAZING with the children! the environment is not only fun and enriching but safe! Oakland Yards is the only place that we feel 100% comfortable leaving our children and 100% confident that they will have a great time! We're so fortunate to have Oakland Yards in our community and look forward to our children being part of it for years to come!
Rob, Brandi, Cooper, & Carter Aquilina
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I would like to take a second and thank you and your team. We have never participated in any activities at Oakland Yard and I can’t tell you how impressed I was. Your team was professional and more importantly fun. My son has never played soccer before and he cannot wait to come back. Thank you again!
Becky Holznagle
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Dear Management and Staff, I just wanted to personally thank all of you for another fantastic summer at OYA. My son, Michael McMillan has had a great time for his 5th year in attendance.
There is no better place for a kid to spend their summer break than your facility which seems to outdo itself with each passing year.
This year, in particular, I cant' tell you how much I appreciate the extra effort everyone took in looking out for Michael the week he wasn't feeling well and tending to him until he could be picked up.
Outstanding effort in both communication and coordination on everyone's part! You guys are the BEST!!
Lea Ann Losin
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Aside from the physical setup of your premises, which is great and much better than YMCA, there's a lot of little details on the human level that make a big difference.
The fact that Philip and you were there, showed that you are involved and behind your staff and, in turn, ensures that everyone cares.
Eric asked me about him putting sun lotion on Aydan and said they would do it 2 or 3 times a day.
At YMCA, Aydan was not applied any sun protection.
After the things I'd read in parents magazine, this was a big concern.
So I felt confident that this guy cared !
I guess, the drop off experience really felt like family - tomorrow, I'm almost expecting to be served breakfast ;- )
Also, tonight at pickup, I found the same smiles despite the fact that everybody must have been tired.
People were still nice. The gates were closed and filtered by a nice guy which made me feel that Aydan was safe.
Dawn was there too, nice and smiling, which I thought was really great.
The girl at your front desk said goodbye 'Aydan', while I'm pretty sure it's the first day she saw him, yet she knew and readily remembered his name !
I thought it was pretty amazing.
Thanks for doing all that!
Mike Roman
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It is a pleasure to recommend Oakland Yard summer and winter camps.
My two children (now ages 13 and 10) have attended their summer camps every year for the last 8 years now, and I have nothing but great things to say about the owners (Marty and Philip), the staff, the facilities and the overall organization.
Marty and Philip are there every day observing, assisting, and making sure things run well.
They are extremely involved and really care about details.
Each year they have added new camps expanding their many offerings.
The staff in particular is top notch, they really do enjoy having fun with the kids.
The facilities are safe, secure, wide ranging and yet easily visible.
They offer many perks appreciated by parents and kids (ie camp membership, summer parties, financial incentives, etc.).
Both of my children have attended their winter soccer camps as well.
These camps have helped them keep up with soccer skills during the off season plus have lots of fun in doing so.
My children have attended many other camps throughout the years at various otherlocations. While some have been quite nice, some not so great, - none can equal the overall variety and quality at Oakland Yard.
I would highly recommend Marty and Philip's Oakland Yard programs to anyone.
Joyce Sullivan
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Dear Marty, Philip & All Camp Staff, I want to thank you for making Max's first camp experience at Oakland Yard so wonderful!
He has enjoyed himself very much and just asked today if there were winter camps at OYA too.
I really appreciate everyone working with Max's food allergies.
He has grown up being different and not eating the same things as his classmates for school parties etc.
These past two weeks he has experienced a sense of independence and at the same time he has felt just like on of the kids.
Max may not have had the same lunch as the other kids but his mom didn't pack a lunch.
He stood in line and waited for his lunch just like everyone else.
This meant a lot to him and me.
So, thank you for always checking to see what was for lunch, calling me to read off the ingredient lists and making chicken nuggets especially for Max when there was something he could not eat.
We are glad that Oakland Yard was part of our summer fun and we look forward to returning next year!
Karen Meirow
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Dear Philip & Marty, thank you for providing my grandson with a week of fun and more fun. He never wanted to leave camp. You should be very proud of your facilities, programs and counselors who make it all happen.
Great Job Guys! Again, I thank you both for your kindness.
Ross Herron
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Philip & Marty, I have sent a few people to the Yard this summer and they're all as pleased as we have been in past years. You have great camps and exceptional staff. The kids LOVE to come there--Keep up the great work!
Janice Dawson & Family
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When we moved to south east Michigan, my kids were 9 and 8.
I learned about "The Yard" at it has come to be known in our home, from a father on my son's new hockey team.
He raved about the activities and the people who worked there.
Sooner than planned, I was offered a job and needed daycare fast.
I came into the office and with the help of the awesome staff, had my kids enrolled for the entire summer.
It was the best thing that could have happened for my kids.
They went from knowing no one to having tons of friends and tons of fun.
They continued to come back to camp every year until they were too old.
They both became counselors in training and now they are counselors.
It has been a tremendous learning experience for them - to go from camper to counselor.
As counselors they draw on the memories they made during all those years of summers full of fun and activity.
There is a special place in my heart for "The Yard" As a mother, knowing my kids were having fun and being well cared for made it so much easier to go back to work.
Thank you for providing this awesome experience for the many children who attend your camp each year.
Julie Johnson
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Great for all ages...
Camp, Driving Range, All Sports My daughter is 4 and goes to summer camp at the Oaklandyard in Waterford Michigan. She loves going to camp there and I know she is in great hands with an excellent staff.
Keep up the good work OYA!
Leagues Testimonials
Last Friday was our first night of soccer with your program. I was very impressed with the way the program was run and how the kids responded. It's not easy to command the attention of all those kids, and yet, you did it in a way that was firm, yet caring.
More importantly than me being impressed, my son Luca, had "the best time" (his words). He is excited to go back! He's been in several seasons of other soccer programs and he's never been excited.
I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the season!! Thank you for being so passionate and for caring about the kids.
Jodi DiVito
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We just started in the Friday night soccer program last week. I just wanted to reach out and thank you for making it such a great experience.
This past year has been met with so many challenges and sports have always been a key component in our families lives. Now that we have a 6 and 3 year old we were so excited to get them into sports. Our basketball league was cancelled this past year and even recess at their school has been met with ridiculous restrictions. As some things have slowly opened back up I was hesitant to sign up my 6 year old for anything due to the mask requirements.
So I just wanted to drop you a note and remind you of what an incredible impact you have not just on the kids but on all of the families who've had a challenging year. Nothing better than having your kid out running around, learning all the skills that come from sports and just having fun with other kids. We are very excited to sign our kids up for many more camps and sessions with Oakland Yard in the years ahead.
Thanks for being someone who loves his job :)
Jillian Mantua
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M. has been playing with the Asteroids since the fall, and just loves it. As a mom, I am loving watching him learn the skills and am so happy to see him progress. I think it's great that you're not playing actual games. My stepdaughter (who's now 16) played soccer at 5, and it was a little heard of kids moving from one side of the field to the other in a swarm, with no clue what they were doing. M. is being taught skills and moves that he can carry with him should he continue with soccer and I think it's a GREAT program you have!
It's also been helpful for me to watch him in action with the other kids and the coaches. Sitting on the sidelines, I'm able to compare his behavior to others his age in terms of his ability to follow directions and stay focused. It's helping me make the decision whether to start kindergarten in the fall.
I feel it's a great bang for my buck! Thanks for all you do!"
J. L. - A Happy Mommy
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We will surely be there! Wouldn't miss another amazing opportunity at your establishment! We love it there!! Thanks again Phil!
Sarah VanDeWiele
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Just a quick note to let you know that Dawn is doing a great job at a difficult task.
I appreciate her efforts and wanted to make sure that you are aware the positive impact she has on your customers.
Jim Dyckman - Lobos Soccer Coach
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I just wanted to point out to you what GREAT employees you have! Every one of them has been a pleasure to work with. I'm sure you already know how awesome they are but I am so impressed with them. They are always working, especially the boys. From making drinks, to getting what we need and doing yard work out there.
Please let them know that their hard work and friendliness is truly appreciated by me and the iDig Volleyball players too.
Nikki Benning - Owner/Operator iDig Volleyball
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I love this place and so does my son! The youth instructional soccer program is amazing and my son can't stop talking about soccer.
Tiffany Jensen
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This is my first place i played soccer in michigan indoor and outdoor with river plate... 16 years. Awesome management and i met an awesome people there ...cheers
Yassine Benchbana
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This is our first year signing up any activities at Oakland Yards for our two youngest sons. My husband and I are very impressed. We have two older boys and put them through parks and recs when they were this young, I wish I would have known about Oakland Yards 13 years ago. Your program, coaches, and facility is superb. We love it! Thank you!!! :)
Jennifer
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Perfect! I have been playing flag football here for about 12 years now. Obviously , I am very satisfied with the business. They go out of their way to make it a great experience for everyone. Very helpful staff!
Shawn S. at InsiderPages.com
Tournaments Testimonials
To OYA and all who worked the tournament, the Mid Mi Lumbermen 12U team would like to thank the tournament director and all staff from the umps to concession stand employees. I received many compliments from parents at how well this tournament was ran and I wanted to pass that along. We coaches hope to be back again next year. Thanks again!
Lee Cox - Mid Mi Lumbermen
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This was our first tournament we played at the Oakland Yard and I just wanted to say we are happy with everything. The games were run very efficiently and held to their schedule. It was nice that the games started on time with the schedule provided.
Also - as a side note - I came with my son who is in a wheelchair to watch our team play and your staff was very helpful getting him inside. There was a woman who seemed to be keeping things in order - she was extremely helpful and kind (I wish I would have gotten her name, but I didn't) and also 2 younger guys that helped me get my son inside. They were very helpful as well.
I will definitely keep you guys in mind when scheduling things in the future. Thank you!
Sally
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I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. As always, you and your staff were extremely gracious hosts, and helped make our tryout the successful event that it was. The north dome was the perfect venue for the 45 goalkeepers and players that made it out, and everything went rather smoothly.
David Dwaihy, Detroit City FC Owner
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The Yard is fast becoming the place to put your footprint on the upcoming summer season. Good location, lodging nearby and the staff is very accessible. Centerfield makes for good watching. The fences are short and the ball flies.
Knock-It-Out Tournament Attendee
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Thank you for allowing us to play this year in your Feburary Tournament. This was our first time visiting OYA, and we really enjoyed the day. Not because we played well, but the facility allows for real softball in a very comfortable setting! I hope you will consider us next year. Thanks again!
Scott DeBoer - Livonia Storm 13U
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Even though it was a little chilly and windy, SPX had a great time Saturday, they are already talking about doing it again next year, probably a little earlier in the season. Thank you for all your help and also for making the athletic field, as you know it was a huge success.
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Ryan, Jackie, Stacey and your whole staff was just plain excellent and very helpful. You have put together a good team. Your venue is absolutely perfect for this kind of an event. It’s a little late this season, but I’m going to push it heavy next spring and summer...I would love to produce at least three or four events like this at your venue next year.
Thanks again Philip, for your help and cooperation in putting this event together!
Gary Engelhardt - Premium Event Services
Fundraisers Testimonials
Our 12U baseball team had a cornhole tournament fundraiser at Oakland Yard on April 20th and it was a hit! As a brand new team this year, it was so fun to watch both the parents and our players hanging out and getting to know each other. Even when they were done playing, the families stuck around to socialize and the boys had so much fun running all around the back of the dome and playing kickball. They didn't want to leave when it was over!
As a mom of two athletes, I know that “normal” fundraisers can be an annoying obligation for parents. Not our corn hole tournament! We received so much positive feedback about how well the event was run and how much fun everyone had. We had little siblings and grandparents and everyone in between having fun playing and cheering each other on.
Mark was the best emcee we could have asked for! I had never put together an event like this and I was nervous about how everything would go. Mark was such a pro and explained everything to me and the night went smoothly! The boys would congregate at his stand to chat with him in between games and really liked him. He even brought in several competitive teams which brought in extra money in team fees as well as raffle tickets, plus they were amazing to watch play! We could never have pulled this off without Mark!
Thank you so much Oakland Yard for opening your dome up to our team, The O-Town Outlaws, we are blessed to have you in our community! This corn hole fundraiser was not just a fun team building night, but it was a very successful fundraiser as well!
Thank you so much,
Tina Ersig
O-Town Outlaws 12U Team Mom
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Great event! I'm still getting text messages and several of our parents are now interested in the Friday game night and cornhole leagues.
I told Mark at the outset that I wanted to clear $2,000 and we got 2,400 total. $1200 with raffle tickets. Mark and Patty and DJ Adam and the whole team, Marty, everyone was awesome. I will highly recommend OYA as a venue to anyone who asks.
Thank you,
Laura Filby
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I can't express how grateful I am to Oakland Yard Athletics, Mark, and Patty Post for all of their hard work in helping us put on our Hogs & Harmony for Holly community event held on August 13, 2022, at Lakeside Park in Holly.
On June 21, 2022, the Historic Downtown of Holly suffered a devastating fire. These buildings have been part of our community since the 1860s and are part of our iconic Battle Alley. Other businesses in the heart of our Downtown were hit by these fires, and even 2 months after the fire they are just now reopening their doors. We didn't lose lives, but we lost livelihoods. Out of this tragedy, our community responded and leaders from the Holly DDA, Holly Historical Society, local musicians, and residents pulled together to plan an event to raise funds to help with rebuilding these structures and helping the displaced employees. We also wanted to honor the Firefighters, First Responders, and Police from surrounding communities that came to our aid.
One of the members of the committee suggested a cornhole tournament, and I had zero experience, but a friend recommended reaching out to Oakland Yard Athletics. It was effortless working with Mark and Patty. They handled every detail from providing the boards, team registration, trophies, and the day of the event tournament management. We drew people from Bay City, Waterford, Troy, and Novi that came specifically to play in the tournament. I personally have been involved in the organization of many community events for the last decade, and this was one of the easiest groups I have ever worked with. I can't wait to plan the next community event, and they will 100% be first on my list to call.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Nicole Edwards Rankin - Vice President, Holly Historical Society
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