College can be a busy and stressful time. Between classes, homework, jobs and other responsibilities, it can be easy for students to spend most of their time focused on school. At the University of Idaho, students should take advantage of intramural sports as a way to step away from academics, meet people and have fun.
Intramurals give students an opportunity to be active without having to be a college athlete. Not everyone has the time or experience to participate in a varsity sport, but that should not mean that students have to give up playing sports altogether. Intramurals allow students to compete at a more casual level while still enjoying the sports they like.
There are also plenty of options for students with different interests. Sports and activities can include basketball, volleyball, soccer, flag football, softball, dodgeball, badminton, pickleball, tennis, cornhole and disc golf. With so many choices, students should be able to find something they enjoy, whether they have played the sport for years or are trying it for the first time.
The social aspect of intramurals may be even more important than competition. College can be intimidating, especially for students who are new to campus. Joining a team can give students an immediate opportunity to meet people outside of their classes and majors. Some students may join because of the sport but stay because of the friendships they make.
Intramurals can also provide a much-needed break from schoolwork. Spending hours studying can become overwhelming, and playing a game with friends can be a good way to reset. Students do not need to take every game seriously. Sometimes the best part is simply showing up, laughing with teammates and enjoying time away from a computer or textbook.
The biggest reason students should get involved is that they have little to lose. Students do not need to be the fastest, strongest, or most experienced player. Intramurals are about participating and being part of the campus community.
UI students should not let college pass by without trying something outside the classroom. Signing up for an intramural team could lead to a new hobby, new friendships, or simply a fun memory. For students looking for a way to get involved on campus, intramurals are worth giving a shot.