Hannah Greenwood ‘27
Staff Writer
This past week was the kickoff of the first quarter of intramural sports at Holy Cross. The first quarter consists of three intramural sports options: Tennis, Flag Football, and Soccer. Intramural sports are free-to-play, low-commitment options for any Crusader to join, with both competitive and recreational options. But why are intramural sports so popular at Holy Cross? Across the three sports, over 500 students have formed teams and joined an intramural league. Intramural sports offer a fun, flexible environment that lets students stay active while bonding with friends and fellow students. Teams are self-formed and self-named, allowing friends, classmates, and teammates to come together once a week. Both football and soccer have competitive and recreational options. The variety of sports and options attracts a wide range of students looking to play for one reason or another.
When asked why they joined an intramural team, most agreed it was for the camaraderie and fun. Owen Reiley ‘27, Captain of “The Heys,” saw intramural soccer as a way to bond and spend time together with both teammates and friends. “I know all my teammates well! I have known some since Freshman year, others are my roommates, and others are on the club frisbee team with me! And I’m dating one!” For him, intramural teams strengthen friendships and build memories without the pressure of harsh competition. When asked why he chose recreational vs. competitive soccer, he said, “I considered trying to play competitively, but I decided it would be less enjoyable for me.” Molly Landis, Reily’s teammate, agrees, stating, “We thought the competitive league would have been more pressure and we just want to have fun!” For Owen Reily, Molly Landis, and nearly 300 other recreational participants in soccer or flag football, the game and the fun drew them to join. Intramural sports are an important part of the Holy Cross community, building relationships between players both on and off the field.
The intramural sports season might have already started, but it’s never too late to get involved. Teams and players can continue to join any league until playoffs begin for the top teams. Grab your friends and create a team or join as a free agent looking to meet new people. Teams, rosters, and schedules are all managed through IMLeagues. Just create an account with your Holy Cross email for access. And if you don’t like soccer, flag football, or tennis, quarter two of intramural sports is next, featuring basketball, volleyball, and pickleball.
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