Students have found a new way to interact with the community on campus with intramural volleyball. This success largely stems from the new system put in place last year, which allowed for more consistent and streamlined scheduling.
Seattle Pacific University’s intramurals program is the strongest it has been since recovering from COVID in 2020. Kevin Deschler, the assistant director of student involvement and leadership and head of the intramurals program, has helped the program rebuild. Additional staff have been hired based on their skill and interest in specific sports.
Carlos Arias, a freshman mechanical engineering major, gave praise to the atmosphere this year’s staff provided.
“I love volleyball. I really like the staff, the people in charge did this karaoke night one time, I was having a bad day, and it made my day so much better,” Arias said.
The updated system makes it so students only play weekly games on Monday nights from 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m.
Games are in 30 minute increments. Teams play first to 30 points. Open gym is available typically from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. on Friday nights. Friends of the players are welcome to watch and play other games in the gym both Monday and Friday nights.
Senior informational assistant major November Htoo was grateful to see such a large involvement compared to previous years.
“We really like how many people are coming out and committing this year,” Htoo said.
As far as changes go, the participants are relatively satisfied with their opportunity to play. Some would like to see it more competitive while others would like to see the teams more evened out.
Freshman nursing major Lily Bingham was grateful for how much the intramural experience allows her to be social and step outside her comfort zone.
“My favorite part of volleyball is just jumping in and getting to play with random people and meeting people,” Bingham said.
Intramural basketball kicks off on Monday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m., with open field and gym at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 19.
The schedule is posted on the SPU Intramurals Instagram. Students can look to contact the intramurals team at [email protected] or visit their instagram @intramuralsspu to get involved.