If you are like me, and find yourself with some free time between your obsession with constantly checking your fantasy team, try to get out and support Rensselaer ath-letics. This week there is whole range of events for you to attend and show your support. Just this following week alone, there are 14 varsity events happening both on campus and away. Sunday morning, put on your paint and grab some noise makers to cheer for the women’s soccer team as they take on St. Lawrence University. Enjoy family weekend by spending some time cheering on one of our many teams.
There are always so many events on the weekends, and what is better to build some spirit than getting a whole group of rowdy friends to go cheer for Rensselaer? The men and women that participate in varsity athletics work hard, and we should show our appreciation. If you’ve never been to a soccer game and barbequed on the grass, or to a hockey game screaming your head off, you should give it a shot. You might hear people complaining about how school spirit is lacking, but what better way to prove them wrong by getting pumped and attending a game.
If being a spectator isn’t good enough, I encourage you to join one of our many club sports teams. We have just about every sport represented, from ultimate frisbee to roller hockey to horseback riding; you will find something you’re interested in! Not only do club sports allow you to try something new or improve your current abilities, you will find they are a great way to meet people and relieve stress. Everyone is having tests over the next few weeks, and there is nothing better to take a break with than some team sports. If team sports are not your forte, try to make use of our athletic facilities. Grab some friends and play some basketball or find some open tennis courts and pretend you’re as good as Federer (or Roddick)!
Looking back over the years I have spent at Rensselaer, I’ve found that the key to having a successful and stress-free year lies in being well-rounded. Study hard, but play hard too. Make sure to get some fitness in every day, be social, and attend parties with friends on the weekends. Find some time to relax by yourself and work on cultivating your religious beliefs. A recent study in The New York Times found that most graduates recommend that current students should worry less and enjoy their time at school more. Assuming you don’t pull a Van Wilder, you will be here for only four or five years, and should make the most of the time you have. Enjoy the rest of your week and Family Weekend, and make an effort to build any of your unique strengths both within and outside of athletics.
