Intramural sports have been active throughout the semester, starting with spikeball, flag football, ping pong, and basketball. Intramural sports continue to gain momentum as students compete with each other for fast-paced games, team bonding, and a break from academic stress. 

Allen Clay Jr., Associate Dean of Campus Life, who organizes intramural sports on campus, has received interest that has been steadily rising. “I am excited to organize intramural sports at EMU. Students have expressed a strong interest in these opportunities, and I want to provide programs that fit our current resources and support the student experience,” Clay shared.

Clay emphasized the broader purpose behind intramurals, saying that “intramurals give students a chance to enjoy friendly competition, stay active, build relationships, and strengthen communication within their teams. They also help create a sense of community while supporting physical and social well-being.” 

Yuji Wenger, a junior player in intramural basketball, has expressed positive returns from these games. “Being able to play some good basketball and just have fun” is one of his favorite things about these games. “I feel energized,” says Wenger when asked about how he feels playing intramural sports. This is also the same for many other players who participate in these games. 

To support the growing interest, several improvements are planned for next semester. Clay shares future plans: “Next semester, we plan to continue hosting Open Gym twice a week, expand the number of leagues/sports we offer, and schedule games on days other than Sundays to give students more flexibility to participate.” Clay also hopes to increase staffing, saying, “One of my goals is to increase staffing for intramurals so we can support more leagues and sports. My team works hard, but we are small, and additional staff will help us meet the growing interest from students.” 

With finals approaching, Wenger says, “I’m looking forward to the end of finals week, and I hope our team can win one more game before the end of the season.” Intramural basketball and other sports have been a way for students to relieve their stress and do something other than academics to escape from the work. 

As EMU looks ahead to an expanded intramural program, the excitement around basketball and other sports shows no signs of slowing. Whether competing for fun, staying active, or enjoying time with friends, intramural sports continue to be a highlight of student life on campus.