Intramurals Offer Chance to Unwind for All Students

For those who thought the intramurals program at Shepherd couldn't possibly offer something they'd be interested in, it's time to take a closer look.

Intramurals Coordinator Keith Worrell has created a program that caters to students of all interests.  While you can find your typical intramural sports such as soccer, flag football and basketball, Worrell has made an effort to expand the program to include such activities as movie nights, Texas hold ‘em tournaments and other events that one might not typically think of when they hear the word "intramural".

"You have to be inclusive to everyone on campus, not just the athletes," Worrell said.

Intramurals works directly with many other Shepherd departments, including the Student Government Association and the program board.  Working with these groups, they are able to organize such events as Madden tournaments, ping pong tournaments and working with Late Night in the Zone to help organize the annual Super Bowl party.

The main goal of the program is to give students a chance to relax amidst their busy school and work schedules, with a chance to integrate not only with other students but with faculty and staff as well.

"Students are so busy with school work they need something to do to unwind," Worrell said.

A newer event that Worrell, who has been the coordinator for three years, has introduced is what he calls the "weekend warriors".  Once a month, an event is scheduled aiming to keep students on the Shepherd campus.  The first one of the year was a paintball trip.

The intramural program extends to offering students transportation to Shepherd away football games and other trips.  While these events are available at a small fee, the majority of what the intramural department does is completely free.  Worrell said he likes to offer events at the lowest cost possible, saying "It's all for the students,". 

While Worrell is pleased with the participation level of intramurals, he goes on to say that there is always room for improvement.  He estimates that approximately 3,000 students participated in intramurals last year, and he would like to see that number continue to grow, as well as the expanding the types of events offered.  He looks at the intramurals program as more of "campus recreation", a broader program that all students can involve themselves with.

Anyone interested in learning more about intramurals can visit the program's website at www.shepherd.edu/intramurals/.  There are typically fliers posted throughout the University as well as listings in the emails sent out by student affairs.