Keep off the freshman 15

The joy of athletic competition at IU spreads far and wide, from prospective students to long since graduated alumni. The excitement of rooting for the Cream and Crimson as they make their way through one of the NCAA’s banner conferences is a welcome task for Hoosier sports fans. But for a great many people, simply watching is not enough. Luckily, IU Recreational Sports can satisfy anyone who loves the sweat of athletics, but does not want to compete on the big stage.\nWelcome Week is full of events and options for new and returning Hoosiers. \nRecreational athletes should find time to check out the intramural and club sports options available on campus. The Semester Kickoff for Recreational Sports will be held from Aug. 2-30 at the Student Recreational Sports Center and Sept. 18-20 at the Health, Physical Education and Recreation building. Students will be able to take facility tours and ask recreational sports staff questions to determine how they can best remain physically fit. More information can be found at www.iurecsports.org.\nThe freshman 15 can be an undesirable part of the first year of college, but opportunities for exercising and staying in shape are abundant on campus, from weight rooms to squash courts, from pools to ping pong. \nHowever, if students desire to remain physically fit but at the same time want the thrill of competition, then joining a club sports team is a great opportunity to pursue. All 41 teams are organized by students, and club teams are not allowed to hold tryouts or make cuts, giving athletes of all ability levels the opportunity to participate. But the level of competition does not suffer since club teams travel across the nation to compete with other universities in tournaments and matches throughout the school year. In this way, students are afforded opportunities for competition in both traditional and obscure sports, incorporating activities like judo and curling with mainstream sports like baseball. Whatever a student’s preference, it is likely that everyone will find a club they like.\nRecreational sports also offers a wide range of intramurals that accept registration during each sport’s given season. These are a great way to relax, have fun, make great memories and still enjoy competition. Simply appoint a captain, register and pick up your playing shoes. It’s that simple.\nThe IU school year can be long and arduous. Recreational sports are a great way to blow off steam and keep the mind clear for a successful semester. But, even if none of the above seem particularly appealing, Dunn Meadow is situated in the heart of campus. Grab a baseball glove or Frisbee and ask a friend to play catch. \nNot every IU athlete will be seen on network television. From the occasional swimmer to the hardcore rugby player, students who participate in recreational sports are student-athletes as well. Besides, what else is there to do between Saturdays in September? Go to class? I assure you that a little Taekwondo is far more exciting.