Chaminade University students eagerly anticipate the revival of intramural sports on campus, an activity that once fostered strong community bonds. Recent years have seen a significant decline in intramural tournaments, with no major events last year and only limited games this year, causing disappointment among many students.
Intramural sports have historically provided a rare opportunity for organized athletic competition on campus. Ethan Langkilde, a participant in last spring’s 5-on-5 basketball tournament, highlighted the value of these events. He noted, “I do miss playing intramurals because I got to bring all my friends together on one team.” According to him, many students share the hope for a return to more frequent and robust intramural play.
The decline in intramural sports is tied to multiple factors, primarily changes in staffing and leadership within the Office of Student Engagement (OSE). Since 2021, the office experienced four different directors, each with unique priorities that influenced the continuity of intramural scheduling. Andrew Ancheta, the current director, explained that after the large basketball tournament held in the spring at McCabe gym, resources have become more limited.
At present, OSE operates with only one full-time staff member and part-time student workers. This contrasts sharply with larger universities that maintain dedicated teams managing intramural sports. Due to these constraints, intramurals have been intentionally scaled back to smaller, more manageable activities.
The department has introduced alternative events such as a pool tournament in October, with more small-scale games planned for the spring. Although these do not match the excitement or size of past tournaments, they provide students with chances to engage in recreational play and social interaction. Ancheta emphasized that intramurals still play a vital role in campus life by bringing students together, both as participants and spectators.
However, the office also faces challenges related to sportsmanship and conflicts during games. Episodes of negative behavior and heated competition have been observed, adding complexity to organizing future events. Despite these obstacles, enthusiasm for larger intramural programs remains high.
Students and staff alike hope that with adequate funding and staffing, the Office of Student Engagement can reinstate major intramural tournaments. Strong attendance at smaller events could demonstrate student interest and justify expanded programming. Until then, intramural sports at Chaminade continue to be a work in progress, shaped by resource availability and student support.
Langkilde summed up the sentiment shared by many when he said, “Playing in McCabe with all my friends was one of my best memories of being here. I hope we get that chance to play again and bring together the school.”
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