Winter may still be upon us, but the prospect of spring is certainly in the air. So while windshields are still snow-covered and the roads are slick and slushy, students can look forward to the beginning of spring intramural sports as a time to stretch their legs and get some exercise.
The tight schedule for indoor winter teams has put the practice time for intramurals on hold, as open space is limited in the Cousens Gym complex. However, an upcoming captains meeting will allow interested students to explore their options on campus.
According to Cheryl Milligan, Tufts' varsity softball coach and coordinator of the intramural sports program, a number of improvements to the program will be made for the upcoming season, and some changes will be put into effect.
"We're trying to make the program itself more streamlined." Milligan said. "With the implementation of online registration for teams that are organized and ready to play, there's less paperwork and the team members don't have to come to the Athletic Office. If we make it easier for students to sign up, it will be much easier for them to be successful."
The intramural sports program is centered on fun, but also caters to students' competitive spirits. Sports that will be offered for the spring include flag football, tennis, lacrosse, softball, soccer, basketball, field hockey, volleyball, badminton and dodgeball. While a few sports, such as badminton and field hockey, have already had organized open playtime, others will probably not start practicing regularly until spring break.
A sport that has recently gained attention and a following is dodgeball. This season will allow the teams to form an actual league and compete, which is a step up from the informal competitions that have occurred in the past.
Milligan has high hopes for the success and popularity of the dodgeball league.
"I think that dodgeball will come full circle from last season." Milligan said, "The great thing is, you don't need tons of equipment and the practice space is readily available. I've had many students show interest and once a formal league is formed, it will definitely be headed in a positive direction."
The interest in intramural sports at Tufts has always been strong, but many students are not certain how to sign up. Groups of friends are encouraged to start their own teams by filling out a roster form on the Athletics Department Web site. The forms will be available soon, and chosen captains can give the names, ID numbers, and contact information of their team members online.
For individual students who would like to play, Milligan encourages attending the captains' meeting for more information regarding the sport of their choice. Students should check the Athletics Web site for updated information regarding the meeting and any future questions concerning the intramural sports schedule.
Students who do not necessarily want to play intramural sports but have a general interest in athletics or need a work-study job can also participate in the program. Monitors for soccer are needed, as are referees for various sports. Anyone with an interest in athletic management can likely find a home in the program.
And for the more eclectic athletes on campus, the Athletics Department is welcome to new ideas. The student-suggested dodgeball league is gaining popularity, and (though there is no confirmation) a bowling league may be in the works for the upcoming semester. Students are encouraged to contact the department with ideas or questions.
Competition on the intramural sports scene varies with the team. While the A league teams can offer more serious competition, the B leagues for such sports as soccer and basketball require no experience. Students of any skill level are encouraged to participate and learn something about the sport of their choice.
Those interested should keep a lookout for a captains' meeting in the near future by checking the Athletics Department Web site for updates.
