Credit Guides And Credit Services

Rec Sports puts the competitive edge on fun

Date 3/18/1999 12:00 AM | Topic: Sports

The Recreational Sports department and its Backyard Wilderness Pursuits branch are serving up a variety of activities providing students with athletic opportunities for the spring semester. In addition to the return of popular events, Rec Sports has up-coming changes to increase its service to students.

According to Vicky Jaeger, coordinator of Recreational Sports, new events and leagues will be implemented through the spring semester and next fall.

The new events line-up includes three-on-three blacklight basketball.

"The three on three blacklight basketball tournament is off to a fun start," Jaeger said. "Next year we hope to have a black light dance, too."

Recreational Sports may be renamed Recreational Services in the future because it also coordinates activities outside the range of sports.

A flashlight Easter egg hunt will be held in the Rec Sports field April 6. Hunters have the chance to win prizes from Marty's.

"Events such as the Easter egg hunt and our annual ballroom dancing classes are good, safe ways for students to have fun even though they aren't really sports," said Jaeger.

Recreational Sports continues to organize a range of intramural sports events through the school year, including different versions of tennis, football, golf, Frisbee, hockey, soccer and billiards.

Some events are offered several times a year because of their popularity. Students may sign up for mud, sand, four-on-four, men's or women's volleyball during most months and basketball leagues are in progress most of the year.

Jaeger said other events are gaining popularity.

"We've had a surprisingly large turn out for badminton this year. Twenty-two pairs are signed up right now," said Jaeger. "Racquetball is also popular."

According to seasoned Rec Sports participants, it is important for students who commit to a league to appear at scheduled events.

"I had a good time with the January broom-ball league, but it was kind of disappointing when the other team wouldn't show up," said Kari Hamer ('01).

Soccer player Andy Petersen ('99) said, "It's a lot of fun, but frustrating when the opponents don't come."

Rec Sports also coordinates non-competitive athletic activities that are open to students throughout the year. Aerobics classes are offered at 7:30 p.m. every Monday through Thursday and Sundays at 7 p.m. in the north gym. Water workout classes are offered at 6 a.m. Monday through Friday in the Regents Center pool.

Backyard Wilderness Pursuits, the outdoor branch of Rec Sports, is gearing up for its spring activities. Caving and climbing are two priorities for the semester.

"Anyone with an interest should come." said "Nature" Ben Larson ('99), student coordinator. "All are welcome regardless of experience."

Other BWP activities include hiking, biking, camping and canoeing.

"BWP is a great program. I strongly encourage more people to get involved," said Hamer.

"It's really cool," agreed Mark Tokheim ('01). "Rock climbing is my favorite."

Students wishing to rent outdoor equipment for their own use may contact Larson at extension 1827.

--

Erin Alberty
Chips Staff Writer

[ Comment, Edit or Article Submission ]