By Mathieu Leonard
Intramurals are a vibrant and essential part of the Western New England University community. Intramural sports provide an engaging environment where individuals can exercise and socialize, all while having an enjoyable time. Whether you’re athletic or unathletic, in shape or out of shape, it doesn’t matter; intramurals are a level playing field for everyone.
Intramurals are an important aspect of our college campus, as they can meet the interests of all individuals. Nearly one-third of Western New England’s undergraduate population participates in intramural competitions. Our program now boasts ten different sports, ranging from flag football to inner tube water polo. Participants can choose their level of competition and gain the benefits of physical activity while also creating new connections. And even if you’re ultra-competitive, there is the chance you could win the coveted intramural championship shirt.
The fall season has whispered its goodbyes, and winter tiptoed in. The bitter cold drifts people off the field and onto the main court and the back gym. Stepping into that gymnasium feels like walking into a basketball paradise. The gym buzzes with excitement, and you see plenty of familiar faces. The sound of sneakers squeaking on the court and the symphony of beeps and clicks fill the air.
Two intramural basketball leagues play games from 6 to 10 p.m. on Sunday evenings in the Anthony S. Caprio Alumni Healthful Living Center, or HLC. As basketball is one of the most popular intramural sports Western New England hosts many students sign up each year, making it possible to run both a men’s league as well as a co-ed league.
The rules in the intramural co-ed league award an extra point for every basket scored by a female player. Some teams, such as the Droolers and Dribblers, use this rule to their advantage. “Two of our [female players] played basketball in high school,” said Jake Elpi, a first-year student on the Droolers and Dribblers, “so we are pretty confident putting the ball in their hands. Bonus points are a big factor late in the game.”.
The Dribblers and Droolers, along with many other teams, have been extremely successful as they utilized this tactic well. However many points they scored or blocked shots they had, that wasn’t what mattered in the end. What mattered more to them was just being able to play the game.
Elpi’s presence on the court also points to one of the benefits of intramurals. “I’m on the wrestling team here,” he said. “I couldn’t play basketball when I was in high school because [wrestling and basketball] were in the same season.” However, intramural play allows Elpi to participate in both sports as an undergraduate.
Feeling a sense of camaraderie is an essential part of the college experience. Whether on a team with members of your sports program, your dorm hall, or people you’ve met through classes, the field or court is a great spot to build memorable friendships, along with special college moments. If you choose to dedicate some time to intramural sports, you’re doing something to make you feel more a part of your school.
However, it’s important to realize that intramurals can only impact those who choose to participate in them. You can take full advantage of this opportunity or miss out on stepping into a space where fun meets fitness. It’s not just a bunch of pickup games; it is a community full of laughter and competition waiting for you.
There is nothing better than shooting some hoops to divert your attention away from the pressures of the classroom. Western New England intramurals allow you to get out there and have fun, and life is too short not to have some fun.
If you are someone still interested in playing sports this semester, don’t wait. Visit the Anthony S. Caprio Alumni Healthful Living Center to learn more about forming a team and getting onto a sports schedule.
