Jordan-Christopher Purvis
Special to The Leader
Growing up, I loved every sport that was introduced to me. I always dreamt of playing in Yankee Stadium alongside Derek Jeter, hearing the “Bleacher Creatures” chanting my name throughout the stands and competing for the World Series title each year.
However, even though the passion I had towards sports were strong, I was never able to compete at a high level amongst my peers. Entering my first year of college at Fredonia State University, I still had the desire to play some kind of sport whether or not I was good at it.
During Activities Night, an event held each semester at Fredonia that allows you a chance to learn about all the academic, athletic, music and social clubs on campus, I was introduced to Intramurals.
Intramural is a club that is offered to tons of college students across the nation which promotes the team, league, tournament, individual and dual sports competition. If you’re good or bad, if you’re in shape or out of shape, it doesn’t matter; intramurals is a level playing field for everyone.
“I have been doing this job for about 15 years now. I’ve always wanted to work in the field of athletics and recreation, because providing an environment where individuals can exercise, socialize and have fun is fulfilling,” said Geoff Braun who serves as the Intramural Director at Fredonia.
He continued on by saying, “Intramurals can only impact the students who choose to participate. We strive to offer a positive experience for all of our participants whether it’s 10 students or 1000.”
This past week at Activities Night, dozens of students had a chance to sign up for various clubs that Fredonia has to offer.
This fall, intramurals will be featuring flag football, sand volleyball, indoor volleyball and innertube water polo.
“It’s a good way to get students involved in sports and keep them active,” said Shaqri Ransome, a music industry major at Fredonia. “Playing has also allowed me to develop new friendships with people who share the same interests as me,” he said.
Intramurals are an important aspect on a college campus, because they can serve individuals of all different interests. Participants gain the benefit of physical activity, varied levels of competition, relieve stress and they’re a great way to meet people. If you’re a person who likes to show off, there is even chance at winning the coveted intramural championship tee.
“My freshman year I didn’t know a lot of people, so I decided to join intramurals,” said sophomore Kevin Cintron. “If there is one sport I wish intramurals offered at Fredonia, it would be lacrosse. I played when I was in high school.”
If you are someone who is still interested in playing sports this semester, don’t wait. Visit the Intramural office located at 154 Dods Hall.