To recollect, I see the sun shining in all parts of the Valley. On all four campuses, Sun Devil nation is represented positively by those who put in the effort—scholars, athletes and combined, student athletes. Athletically, representation is not only subjected to division I athletics, although those athletes have stood tall so far this year. (Beat those Broncos!) The Arizona sun covers more ground than that.
The club sports and intramural leagues are integral parts in representing the pitchfork. You could just say that they are the other two prongs to the triple-threat the Devils have when they compete. Wholly, athletics are growing exponentially here at ASU.
Club sports specifically have shown great perseverance. Through limited funds—far less than NCAA allocations—they have accumulated enough success to shadow the buttes; their year is only halfway over. Not naming specific instances, club sports have grown in that it gives students the chance to keep playing.
It’s kind of like an adjustable bar. You can pick how much time you have between school and sports by just moving the slider. Club sports is the medium of a non-athlete and a division I athlete. Not to generalize and say that a student’s degree of commitment directly translates into grades, but it’s great to see that they have options that are schedule-friendly. They can still do what they love, even if their focus is on academics.
Club sports don’t lack in passion for the game, even if they are so-called “more relaxed.” This semester, I have seen athletes beating themselves up—tackling each other, diving for a ball and the list goes on. Heck, I was sore just watching some of them. The intensity does not deviate.
As for those looking to include even the slightest of competition to their schedule, intramural sports have also shown development. Not only has it unleashed every Sun Devil’s competitive side, but it has also reinforced a good aura amongst the campuses. Simply put, this friendly competition has brought together everyone.
…That’s even a competition in itself. Whose fans are better than whose? I know I can vouch for how close we are to ASU. I have not gone a day where a pitchfork has not been raised and I have not gone a day where I haven’t seen “No pity for the kitty” on students’ shirts. Collectively, the student fan base is why these sports organizations can flourish. It’s what they are founded on.
Clubs and intramurals start with a few students looking to just play—kind of like The Sandlot—but then gets to the point where they become an official club. They’re fans of the sport so why can’t they play, right?
That’s even something great. For being a two-way street, ASU makes it happen. Without these organizations expanding—new complexes and paid trips nationally—how could I even blog?
Time will tell though; the year isn’t over. Status update for the semester: Sun Devil athletics is the opportunity for everyone to play and keep growing here on all the campuses. That success is greater than any medal.
What are your thoughts about club and intramural sports? Could it be better? E-mail me at bcapria@asu.edu.
