lntramurals have been part of student life for generations lntramurals have become a way oflife at Harding. Whether through a social club or an assigned team, students participate in intramural athletics each semester. When Harding was founded in 1924, George S. Benson was named the director of athletics. Benson and Allie Marie Bailey began the intramural program for men and women. According to Petit Jean records, familiar sports, such as basketball, volleyball and softball, were played, as were boxing, wrestling, hockey and croquet. "Many people do not know that our own Clifton L. Ganus Jr. won the very first intramural jacket. His wife was also a winner in the women's division," said current women's intramural director, Barbara Barnes. "Mrs. Ganus' jacket is in the memorabilia room in the AWH house today." Families on campus often share in the intramural program for several generations. "The Ganuses have a special legacy in the intramural program in that their daughter, Debbie Ganus Duke, and their granddaughter, Johnna, both were participants in the program," Barnes said. Leadership has been the key to the Amy Spurlock pitches for her softball team. George S. Benson andAllie Marie Bailey started the men's and women's intramural program in 1924. Photo by Aaron Gillihan. 278 Women's Intramurals success ofthe women's program throughout its history. "WhenMarge Ryanwas director, Hardingmade a real commitment to provide the Harding women with the best intramural teams possible," Barnes said. "During that time frame, we found state and national respect for the program." Ryan served as director ofthe program from 1961 to 1967. Barnes served as Ryan's assistant and took on the responsibility of director in 1966. Participation in the intramural program has always been high. Approximately 65 percent of women students participated in some aspect ofthe program this year. Barnes credited the growth to increased enrollment, but stressed that Harding is committed to providing an excellent program. "In 1946, Coach Berryhill said that 'the primary purpose of Harding's program of intramurals is to encourage every student to take part in athletic competition and to gain all the advantages of a well-played game,"' Barnes said. "This is still our aim today. We strive to offer the best program in the country to the best group of young people in the country." - Kathryn George
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