By Craig Healy
Not everyone has the throwing arm of a Brian Brohm or the pure athleticism of Terrence Williams. That doesn’t mean the rest of us can’t have fun with sports. Anyone with a love for sports and recreation, can be involved with University of Louisville’s intramural program.
The great thing about the intramural program is there’s so much to offer, from the expected basketball and football to obscure sports like the ultimate frisbee league or badminton.
“I love the intramural program,” said junior marketing major Scott Rick. “I just have fun playing basketball with my friends. We have a team in one of the leagues and it’s just fun getting out there, you know meeting new people. It can get competitive, but that’s what I like about it.”
Not all the games are cutthroat; there are all different types of leagues based on skill level and competitiveness. There is also the Greek division.
“It’s a great way to bond with your brothers,” said junior business economics and finance major Alex Knowload from the Delta Upsilon fraternity. “Sports are one of the most instinctual loves of a man, and to share that with your closest friends is priceless.”
Winning a league also has its rewards. For students who have ventured through the Student Activities Center Gym, it would be hard to miss the Cardinal “Wall of Fame.” This is where the pictures of all league champions throughout the years are held. The wall dates as far back as 1954 and shows a great visual history of past students. If getting immortalized on the “Wall of Fame” or bragging rights isn’t enough, students also receive the infamous intramural champion t-shirt.
Students who don’t have a team together can still compete. The intramural department offers a free agent pool where they match players without a team with teams seeking players.
Another great thing about the program is students don’t have to play sports to get involved.
“All the officials involved with the intramural program are student trained officials,” said Dale Young, coordinator of intramural sports. “We have even had people go on and officiate professionally. Just this summer we had people officiating both for the women’s and men’s high school McDonald’s All-American basketball game.”
The line doesn’t stop at officiating; the intramural department also offers a number of group fitness classes.
“For a fee of $40, you can have full access to any of the classes,” said Young. The classes last 14 weeks and include yoga, Pilates, and other aerobic workouts. Times are varied so it’s perfect for the student with a hectic schedule.
The U of L intramural department is dedicated to offering something for every student. For those interested in starting a sport or club not offered they are always open to suggestions. Making a plea is as simple as stopping by the intramural office located directly next to the SAC gym.
Further information on jobs, leagues, different sports, schedules, internships and clubs can be found in the intramural office.
