Royal Purple

Issue date: 2/20/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Haley Smith Two students prepare to square off in floor hockey at Roseman Gym Sunday night. Floor hockey is just one of many intramural sports students partake in.

Most students at UW-Whitewater have seen the intramural championship shirts around campus, and whether they like to admit it or not, they're jealous.

Intramural sports are more popular than ever at UW-Whitewater, especially with the success of the university's varsity programs. Whether students play intercollegiate athletics, cheer on the national championship-winning football and volleyball teams, or just shoot hoops at the Williams Center, sports are all around campus.

Many intramural sports are offered throughout the fall and spring semesters, such as basketball, volleyball, wheelchair basketball, floor hockey, table tennis, racquetball and darts. Two new sports, pin dodgeball and wrestling, have been added to this year's lineup.

"This is our first time trying the wrestling tournament, [so] it should be interesting. Hopefully, there will be a lot of interest in it," said Intramural Sports Coordinator Missy Pritzl. "Members of the varsity team will be helping out and officiating the match, which will take place in March."

Intramural sports allow students of all athletic abilities to be part of a team and play in a league competitively. Basketball is by far the most popular intramural sport, providing leagues for men, women and co-ed teams. With a lot of competitive play, rivalries are often formed and friends are made, creating a very energetic atmosphere.

Students play intramural sports for many different reasons. Some play to stay in shape, while others play to get their minds off of the grueling task of a being a college student.

"I play intramural sports, because it's a good way to meet and get to know people," said Allison Driscoll, an intramural sports official and participant. "It's also a great way to stay active and have fun all at the same time."

Regardless of the motives behind participating, intramural sports are a significant part of life at UW-Whitewater. To join a league, student teams can sign up in the Recreation Sports office, located in room 100 of the Williams Center. Registration dates vary from sport to sport.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools