PC INTRAMURAL SPORTS – FUN, COMPETITION, CAMARADERIE!
Did you know that the Princeton Review named Providence College’s intramural program #2 in the country in 2023? According to Ed Laprey, Executive Director of Recreational Sports, that recognition is due to the many exciting changes, tremendous enthusiasm and support the intramural program has benefited from during his 21 years at PC. The results of these efforts significantly and positively impact all three dimensions: mind, body, and spirit, which are at the heart of the Dominican collegiate experience.
Intramural sports involvement provides students with a break from studying, allows them to meet other students, and expand their social network. It is a great way to exercise and relieve stress– especially during the cold winter months when “Cabin Fever” can play havoc with even the most organized and motivated student.
No doubt, Ed’s leadership has played an important role in the success of recreational sports at PC. A few weeks ago, I had an opportunity to chat with him to learn more about our intramural sports program. I hope you will share this information with your students and maybe even encourage their involvement.
I think I am ready for a game of Pickleball!!!
Jackie
Please share a little bit about our intramural sports program.
So many of our students played varsity sports in high school and are eager to participate in intramurals when they come to PC. Consistently more than half of the student body participates in intramurals each year, with many students involved in multiple sports. I believe that the program’s success is directly related to the support of the administration in providing appropriate staffing and first-rate facilities for our students. For example, the addition of our lighted turf fields now allows us to play well into the evening.
How does involvement in intramural sports impact a student both during and after the college experience?
While students enjoy the competition and covet the championship t-shirts, I strongly believe that the social benefits of participating in intramural sports need to be highlighted. Students develop many lasting friendships through their involvement. As a result, it increases their sense of belonging and helps them feel more socially connected. Additionally, the qualities of a good teammate in sports are often transferable to the workplace. Leadership skills and conflict resolution strategies are developed, as well as overall interpersonal skills.
What can parents suggest to their students who might be interested in participating in intramurals this semester?
During the spring semester 14 sports will be offered including Pickleball, Corn Hole, Table Tennis, Inner Tube Water Polo, and Ice Hockey. I suggest they check out the complete spring menu at: https://recreation.providence.edu/intramural-sports/. While students are often asked to join a team, remind them that they should not hesitate to take the lead and start their own team by being a captain. A captain would just recruit enough friends/teammates to form a team and then register on IM Leagues. Roster size varies depending on the sport. Captains then must attend the captains meeting to get information on the rules, policies, and schedules. Information on Registration and Captain’s Meetings can be found on IM Leagues.
