Directors
Sid Friedman, Mark Coden(Cody), Sean Rekeny, Mike King
Sid Friedman
Pictured With wife Kerry and son Mak
Camp Tanuga is directed by Sid Friedman and Mark Coden. Raised from birth at Tanuga, Sid is the son of the late founder Bernie Friedman. He is a graduate of Michigan State University, having received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology."
Mark Coden
Pictured with wife Robyn
Mark, a second generation Tanuga camper and longtime dedicated staff member, has been a part of the Tanuga family since he was six years old. He is a graduate of Oakland University, with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education."
Sean Rekeny
Pictured with: Benjamin (23), Bodie (3), Drew (21), Zach (19), William (15), Sam (19), Emme (14), Ella (19), Yvonne, Karsyn (4), Sean
With 20 years of experience at Heartland Hockey Camp, Sean Rekeny has dedicated his career to mentoring campers, leading staff, and shaping positive camp experiences. His expertise in camp operations and team-building aligns perfectly with Tanuga's mission. Sean's wife, Dr. Yvonne Rekeny, a board-certified physician, looks forward to volunteering her medical expertise at camp. Together, they value the lifelong impact of summer camp on children's growth, leadership, and confidence.
Mike King
Pictured with: Allie, Levi (1), Mike, Brooks (3)
With over 12 summers at Heartland Hockey Camp, Mike has led coaching, program development, and marketing while creating unforgettable experiences for campers and staff. His background in video production and passion for building connections make Tanuga the perfect fit. As a husband and father of two, Mike values providing a supportive and inspiring environment where kids can thrive. His wife, Allie, shares his passion for positive youth experiences and looks forward to supporting campers and staff.
Together, our directors bring decades of camping experience to the Tanuga program. Sid, Mark, Sean, and Mike are deeply committed to every camper, always keeping their best interests at heart. You'll find them out interacting daily, ensuring that the 'Tanuga Magic' continues to blossom in each camper.
Our leadership team recognizes the importance of honoring Tanuga's rich traditions while also evolving to meet the needs of today's youth. Since 1952, Tanuga has been a special place, and with their dedication, it will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Our Staff
What makes Camp Tanuga so unique is that all of our staff know all of our campers and all of our campers know all of our staff. We call that the Family Feeling.
It is no surprise the staff is the backbone of our program. Expert, caring counselors enhance positive camping experiences. We dedicate the entire off-season to recruiting qualified staff from all over the world.
Prior to campers arriving, all Tanuga staff members participate in a week long, intensive training seminar. During this training period, we instill the Tanuga philosophy, further develop team building skills, broaden camping know-how and prepare our staff for how to work with children on an individual and group basis. At Tanuga, our staff and campers become a close-knit unit.
Tanuga has a completely staffed medical facility including examination and individual care rooms. Trained medical care givers are available at all times with two local hospitals in close proximity to our campgrounds.
Our experienced kitchen staff has received special training in nutrition and food preparations to fulfill the needs of today's active youth.