Northwestern’s annual dodgeball tournament is a much anticipated event on campus.
The tournament is organized by the Student Activities Council, and it is just one of the many events the council has planned for the year. It is always well attended.
Often wings, dorms, apartments or athletic teams sign up to play together. This year there are seven male teams and 16 female teams.
Sophomore Amber Sandbulte said she is excited to participate.
“The girls cross country team is competing this year,” Sandbulte said. “We are going to bring it and win.”
Teams get creative when choosing a team name.
“Our team name is ‘We’re too XC for our shirts!’ Sandbulte said. “We’re really excited about it!”
The tournament is not a huge time commitment because it only lasts three days. Many students enjoy participating in something that is not a long-term obligation.
“It is really fun to play with my wing, and I get a free T-shirt,” said sophomore Mica Graves.
Other students view dodgeball as opportunity to spend time with friends and roommates or become more engaged in the NW community.
“The competition is fun,” said senior Kyler Mulder. “Being with all your friends on a team and throwing dodgeballs at the other team is a great time.”
Although some students sign up voluntarily, others feel obligated to participate.
“I got pressured into playing,” said sophomore Kalli Kuipers. “My friends would not take no for an answer.”
The dodgeball tournament is not part of intramurals. It is a completely separate activity. Some teams may be competitive but many simply sign up to have fun.
“It is a fun way to spend time with your friends even if you get slaughtered by the softball team,” said senior Lindsey Geels.
The dodgeball tournament will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 22. It will continue at 8 p.m. on Oct. 23 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 24.
