University Star

Texas State students hoping to become more active can join the intramural programs and sport clubs this semester.

Glenn Hanley, director of Campus Recreation, said students who are involved in these activities at Texas State have seen success at the university.

“It has been proven throughout the years that students who are involved will be more satisfied with their college experience, gain student development opportunities, be retained and graduate at a higher rate than students who are not involved,” Hanley said.

The spring 2011 league schedule for intramurals will consist of basketball, outdoor soccer, softball, kickball, dodgeball and inner tube water polo. Basketball, soccer and softball will also have a preseason league.

Tournaments for tennis doubles, bowling, 4-on-4 flag football, basketball, racquetball doubles and sand volleyball will begin play in March and April.

Students interested in joining the leagues or tournaments can register at the beginning of the semester. The first entry deadline will be for the basketball preseason Jan. 28 with fees for the spring leagues and tournaments ranging from $20 to $60.
Trevon Walker, assistant director of Campus Recreation, said students should get involved with the intramural sports Texas State offers.

“The intramural sports program offers students an opportunity to compete and enjoy recreational activities with friends and peers,” Walker said. “It’s a great social atmosphere where students have the opportunity to enjoy positive experiences with the university community. Intramural sports also provide outlets for students to release stress, and at times can be that much-needed, study break.”

Kristy Caldwell, associate director of Campus Recreation, said students in sport clubs have achieved more in the classroom than individuals not involved.

“Personally, I believe that the more involved a student is, the more successful they are at everything, because they have to be organized to meet all obligations,” Caldwell said. “Specifically for sport clubs, though, student (grade point averages) are higher. Average sport clubs athlete fall 2009 and spring 2010 (GPAs were) 2.84 and 2.82, respectively, compared to the university student averages of 2.72 and 2.71.”

Caldwell said students may join a club at any time. Clubs that will compete during the 2011 spring semester include men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s rugby, men’s and women’s ultimate disc, men’s and women’s volleyball, men’s and women’s water polo, wrestling, fencing, triathlon, swimming, gymnastics, tennis and baseball.