" I know our's is one of the best in the state - our facilities, and especially the percentage of the student body who . . " particIpates. - junior Cade Smith 38 /I student life " intramurals strong programs result in higher participation rate throughout year t he intramural program at Harding ranked right up there with some of the major state universities, junior Cade Smith, intramurals assistant, said. "I know our's is one of the best in the state - our facilities and especially the percentage of the student body who participates," Smith said. "It's really high." Although the exact percentage of the student body who participated in intramural sports this year was difficult to calculate, the numbers were high and activity was buzzing virtually every week of the school year, Smith said. Intramural activities were divided into five groups: teams, singles, doubles, sports skills and free play. Points were given in the teams, singles, doubles and sports skills divisions. In the fall, the two main activities were softball and flag football. Volleyball and basketball were played in the winter, and in the spring, sports included softball and soccer. Swimming and cross country were only offered to men as intramural options. Women could participate in the two sports through social club athletics. Junior Steve Worthy, an avid swirruner, said having an intramural swimming program fulfilled his swimming drive. "I am so glad that swimming is an intramural sport since there is no Iintercollegiate] team here:' Worthy said. " Tam still able to compete." Through all of these.activities, points were accumulated and added up at the end of the year. Awards were given in different categories, induding Athlete of the Year. Smith, who was the 2002-2003 Intramural Athlete of the Year, meaning he scored the most points in competition, said the fellowship among intramural athletes was a draw to the program for him. "I've met a bunch of people through intramurals/' Smith said. 'Tve enjoyed meeting them. It's also great to compete and have fun with the sports." Smith said the intramural program gave students an opportunity to stay physically active and compete at a non-intercollegiate level. Senior Jess Foster agreed with Smith. " I did not want to put in the time it takes for college volleyball, but I love that I can play intramural volleyball," Foster said. Jim Gowen, men's intramural director, said the program at Harding was unique and needed to be utilized by students. "I encourage everyone to take advantage of the facilities and opportunities with the program," Gowen said. - Renee Lewis UNI
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