Willkie Quad defies ‘closed-door dorm’ stereotype with competitive afternoon

Students, especially student-athletes, would probably love the opportunity to play in the Olympic games.\nWillkie Quad residents will get that chance Saturday. From noon to 3 p.m., residents of the north and south towers of Willkie will go head-to-head to compete for bragging rights, said Allison Gerling, graduate assistant at the residence hall. \nThe day will be filled with tennis, billiards, basketball, an eating contest, a knowledge bowl, volleyball and Nintendo Wii games, followed by an award ceremony at 3 p.m. The winner of each sport will get a gift card to Target, Gerling said. \nFloor President and 2008-2009 Willkie President Sheldon Raisor created the event for a variety of reasons. \n“Out of all of the dorms at IUB, Willkie has a stereotype of being anti-social,” he said. “The Willkie Issues Committee decided to plan a center-wide event that will break down some of the social barriers of being a closed-door dorm.” \nThe event is open to Willkie residents only. Sign-ups occurred in advance; however, students can stop by and decide to play, Gerling said. \n“Residents can always just jump in and play,” Gerling said. \nActivities fees all Wilikie residents pay help fund the event. All residents will be given a free T-shirt and free food, such as wings and stuffed mushrooms, Gerling said. \nSenior Cassie Blair said she respects that Willkie is encouraging interaction among its residents.\n“The fact that they’re opening their doors to change that perspective is a very mature and respectable thing to do,” she said. \nSpectators are also welcome to stop by for some fun and snacks. \n“If you like eating, bring an empty stomach, or if you like basketball, bring your tennis shoes,” Raisor said.