As is the “Elon way,” I have been involved in quite a few clubs and organizations since my freshman year- some of them volunteer, some academic, and some purely for fun (my intramural laser tag team is headed to the playoffs next week- undefeated). There were times when this was overwhelming and other times when I was looking for more. I finally found the balance my junior year after joining the women’s club soccer team.
I played soccer on all levels from the time I was five to my senior year of high school. However, I decided early in high school, probably my freshman or sophomore year, soccer was not something I wanted to pursue at a varsity level in college (but let’s be real, I think my 10:00 minute mile determined that for me). So when I got to campus I had a strategy in mind. I would join a few organizations at the “OrgFair,” play some intramurals, focus on academics and see where I wanted to spend my time. I am sure many of you find yourself in the same situation- seeing college as a time to start a new adventure but wondering what will happen to that passion you’ve had for so long. For my first two years at Elon, I played intramural soccer (AND LASER TAG) and figured that was a good enough to satisfy my soccer craving. But it just wasn’t enough. My junior year at Elon I decided I needed the get back into it— I emailed the club soccer presidents, signed up at org fair, and showed up to the first practice. We practice three days a week, and have games roughly every other weekend. We play UNC-Chapel Hill, High Point, Davidson, UNC-Charlotte, UNC-Wilmington, and we will head to a tournament in Asheville in just a couple weeks. The competition is good but the people are better! Joining a team like this is a great way to meet people of different years, majors, and backgrounds. Some people have found that they played against each other in a travel league, or for some it’s their first time giving it a go.
I have friends that have tried new sports (Women’s Rugby) and some that have led their teams to D-III nationals (Women’s Frisbee). I would encourage everyone to take a look at club sports when you get to campus, or even when you are here visiting for an event weekend. Whether you’ve been playing a sport your whole life or think that it might be something to round out that Elon experience, it’s well worth the time.
Ginny Oberle ’14, is a current admissions intern in our office and wrote the post above. This is a picture of Ginny with her club soccer team!