Over the last four years, I’ve started to amass a small collection of Ravens League-branded intramural team shirts. From soccer and Frisbee to volleyball, basketball, dodgeball and flag football, I probably have at least 20 of these shirts in my closet.
It’s safe to say that I love intramurals. So much so that I usually end up signing up to play at least two sports every semester.
They’re a great way to get active and to meet new people. If you’re nervous about joining a league all on your own, don’t worry. Everyone who signs up individually usually get put on the same team, so you and your teammates will all be in the same boat.
If you’re worried about not being good enough for an intramural sport, don’t be. Intramurals are supposed to be fun! Sure, there are playoffs and you’re competing for the grand prize of— wait for it —a grey long sleeve shirt, but most people know it’s not all about winning. There’s always going to be that one person who gets too into it, which is to be expected. Just ignore them.
At the same time, the intramural leagues aren’t full of only super athletes. There are people of all skill levels—from complete beginners to those who have grown up playing the sport. That’s the whole point of these leagues.
I was really nervous about signing up for flag football last semester because I hadn’t played since high school. I debated signing up for an embarrassingly long time. Did I know enough about football to play? Would I be good enough? In the end, I said #yolo, signed up and ended up having a great time.
That’s not to say it’s all sunshine and roses. As a girl, the most frustrating thing is watching the guys pass the ball around during a game without giving it to you. It’s only after you prove that—WOAH—you actually know what you’re doing with the ball that they start to involve you in the game. I knew those 11 years of competitive soccer would come in handy one day! (Oddly enough, guys never seem to have to prove themselves on the field or court or whatever surface you’re playing on. It’s just assumed that they know what they’re doing. But that’s another issue.)
Nonetheless, Carleton has a ton of intramural sports offered all throughout the week, meaning that you’re sure to find one that works with your schedule. They’re a good break from the stress of the school week and if you’re not into working out in a gym, it’s a good alternative workout.
Carleton should also look into offering more intramural programs. Why not take advantage of the massive swimming pool we have and offer inner tube water polo? Or throw it back to elementary school with some soccer-baseball? Or how about offering sports such as wheelchair basketball, that allow students with disabilities to participate as well?
We’re lucky to have great athletic facilities at Carleton, from our pool, to the Ice House, the Raven’s Nest and the Fieldhouse. From my experience, intramurals are pretty cheap too— usually around $38 for three months’ worth of games.
If you’re on the fence about signing up, just give them a go! What do you have to lose?
