2008 Woodie Awards
The pros and cons of SSU intramurals
A variety of fun for all
Jordan Buskirk
Issue date: 10/25/06 Section: Sports
Tired of the competitiveness? How about the weekly double headers and tournaments away? Want to take back the social life that was lost amongst the passion and obligations? Intramurals are the answer to all those stressed-out cries, early morning practices and constant injuries.
Offered through SSU's Recreation Center, intramurals are perfect for those not-quite-burnt-out players who enjoy the game but want to lose all the extra madness, and for the non-athletes bored of running around a track. Players can either maintain their competitive edge or lay low and learn the meaning of "messing around."
The only commitments made are once-a-week games, showing up in a timely fashion, and having that sportsmanship attitude which makes the setting fun, friendly and welcoming.
This is not to say that every bit of intensity and fierceness that comes with playing university and club sports stops at the Rec doors. Players, ranging in age and talent, bring their "A" game and attract crowds with their enthusiasm and spirit.
Six different intramural sports are playable for students, from the most athletic competitors to those needing interaction with people instead of books. Whether it is looking for a game to join for the night, being a serious team player or attending as a faithful fan, basketball, bowling, indoor and outdoor soccer, softball and volleyball are available for all to play. There are so many options in the program; play one sport or play them all, play with a group of friends or join with strangers, come ready to win or come with a smile.
"Freshman year I played indoor soccer, but it was more competitive so I just stuck with volleyball, a sport I have been playing for 9 years," said senior Meghan Kauffman, who is also the founder and president of the women's volleyball club.
Plus, everything is student run. From the student coordinators, Greg Rhoads-Pierce and Rita Herghelian, to student staff members who volunteer as referees and scorekeepers, the atmosphere is kept light and relaxed.
Senior Jon Bergland plays volleyball for intramurals and the men's club team, likes the interaction with all the people involved, and enjoys having a good time. Having a good time is what playing intramural sports are about.
Yet, there are still rules and policies to follow, and papers to sign and hand in on deadlines. Intramurals is not a pick-up game style, it is organized fun for sports-induced students wanting to take their backyard skills to the next level.
Offered through SSU's Recreation Center, intramurals are perfect for those not-quite-burnt-out players who enjoy the game but want to lose all the extra madness, and for the non-athletes bored of running around a track. Players can either maintain their competitive edge or lay low and learn the meaning of "messing around."
The only commitments made are once-a-week games, showing up in a timely fashion, and having that sportsmanship attitude which makes the setting fun, friendly and welcoming.
This is not to say that every bit of intensity and fierceness that comes with playing university and club sports stops at the Rec doors. Players, ranging in age and talent, bring their "A" game and attract crowds with their enthusiasm and spirit.
Six different intramural sports are playable for students, from the most athletic competitors to those needing interaction with people instead of books. Whether it is looking for a game to join for the night, being a serious team player or attending as a faithful fan, basketball, bowling, indoor and outdoor soccer, softball and volleyball are available for all to play. There are so many options in the program; play one sport or play them all, play with a group of friends or join with strangers, come ready to win or come with a smile.
"Freshman year I played indoor soccer, but it was more competitive so I just stuck with volleyball, a sport I have been playing for 9 years," said senior Meghan Kauffman, who is also the founder and president of the women's volleyball club.
Plus, everything is student run. From the student coordinators, Greg Rhoads-Pierce and Rita Herghelian, to student staff members who volunteer as referees and scorekeepers, the atmosphere is kept light and relaxed.
Senior Jon Bergland plays volleyball for intramurals and the men's club team, likes the interaction with all the people involved, and enjoys having a good time. Having a good time is what playing intramural sports are about.
Yet, there are still rules and policies to follow, and papers to sign and hand in on deadlines. Intramurals is not a pick-up game style, it is organized fun for sports-induced students wanting to take their backyard skills to the next level.