Current Release: April 28th, 2009 | Vol. XXX Iss. 10

Photo By Meghan See

Intramurals score big

By Ozzie Dhramapitaksook

aadhramapitaksook@vwc.edu

Grab a bat, a ball and some players. As easy as it sounds, that is how Virginia Wesleyan’s Intramurals are formed--except in a more organized fashion. Forget all the statistical components attached to collegiate sports, because the only stats kept during intramurals are wins and losses. It’s entirely about the enthusiasm of playing and, most importantly, having fun, even though bragging rights always seem to fall in the middle.

Intramurals balance competition and recreation. The idea is to stay competitive but still walk home a winner. For the fall of ‘07, wiffleball, kickball and co-ed flag football have stormed the recreation at Wesleyan. More participants have attracted more spectators. This has created a sporting experience and atmosphere that is unparalleled.

“All the players seem to be having a lot of fun,” said Jason Seward, director of recreational sports and outdoor activities (RecX). “That’s the whole idea behind intramurals.”

A total of 10 teams participate in flag football, with only eight teams advancing to the playoff race. Currently, the ‘Banging Langias’ team holds sole possession of first place with a record of six wins and one loss. The championship game will be held Oct. 25 under the lights on Foster Field, with the winner advancing to Old Dominion University for continued play.

From the fields on Smith Drive to the lawn behind Godwin, wiffleball has wrapped up competition with the championship game between the faculty team and the Residence Life student team held earlier this week.

“I’m sad that it is over,” said Dr. Brett Heindl, assistant professor of political science and faculty team captain. “The whole experience of playing was fun. It was also nice to see the students outside of class and get to know them as people away from school. I enjoyed having the same bonding experience from playing with the students as I do when I teach them. I’m grateful for the RecX Department and the opportunities they are providing for both the students and faculty.” The intramurals are becoming more popular for both students and student-athletes. The campus recreation program goal is to provide quality recreational opportunities to the students, regardless of skill or experience.

“The experience became very competitive which made the games fun to be a part of,” said sophomore Devin Cowhey, member of the PKT team. “The winning was fun. I’m glad that we have intramurals at our school because it gives everyone something to do during their free time.” There are a few ways to get involved if playing is not desired, such as working as an official or referee, creating a new club sport or volunteering on the Recreational Advisory Board. The RecX program hopes that students come to appreciate fair play, sportsmanship and find active participation will benefit them for life. “Students still like to be a part of a group even if they’re not on a team they want to be on,” said RecX staffer Keyke Talbot. “Intramurals is a good way to meet new friends and have a good time.”

Spring intramurals will soon be here and the options include five-on-five basketball, softball, indoor soccer and sand volleyball.

The next fall season intramural will be three-on-three basketball. The four week season will be held in both the C-MAC and on the Convocation Center court to begin Oct. 29.