Campus Connection

UWL intramurals help students build community, learn valuable skills

At UW–La Crosse, intramural and recreational sports are far more than a way to stay active; they are a powerful engine for belonging, stress relief and personal growth.  

With 86% of students engaging in Rec Sports and more than 353,000 annual visits to the Recreational Eagle Center (REC), the department has become one of the most impactful parts of campus life.  

Survey results from fall 2024 show just how meaningful that impact is: 93% of students say Rec Sports helps them feel like they belong, 92% say it helps them cope with stress and over 80% report it even boosts academic performance. 

For many students, that sense of connection begins the first time they step onto an intramural court — whether to compete, to referee or simply to be part of a community.

Junior Sammy Becker, a biomedical science major and intramural team captain, says she joined intramurals to continue the team-based camaraderie she experienced in high school. 

“I love being around people and staying active, and by playing intramural volleyball, I can do just that,” Becker says. “I love the community that accompanies being part of a team sport.” 

Senior Noah Sellent, a sport management major and Rec Sports student staff member, had a similar first impression when he started working as an official.  

“After having a great experience as an official and meeting some amazing people, I decided to apply to become a competitive sports supervisor where I have been to date,” Sellent says. 

While their roles differ, both students say intramurals have helped them find balance and belonging.  

Becker relies on the B and C league volleyball atmosphere — friendly, supportive and low-pressure — to break up her demanding schedule.  

“It is primarily about having fun,” she explains. “Playing with friends and just hanging out is a great reprieve from the monotony and stress of everyday life.” 

Sellent sees a similar need for stress relief reflected in every shift he supervises.  

“School can be stressful for many people, so having a space to relax and enjoy something you like can make campus life much more enjoyable,” he says.  

Similar to Becker, Sellent’s favorite part of intramurals is the community. 

“My favorite aspect of the position is all the people I get to work with on a single shift and creating an environment that is welcoming and enjoyable for all students,” he says.

Both students say the intramural community has sharpened skills they can take into their future careers.  

Becker notes that her communication, teamwork and leadership skills have grown through her participation in intramurals. 

 Sellent echoes that growth from the staff perspective. 

“Problem-solving and communication skills have been the most important and prevalent,” he says. “You have to be ready to adapt and communicate with participants and staff at any time.” 

Despite their different paths into intramurals, both students say the same factors keep them coming back: the people, the energy and the feeling of belonging created through Rec Sports. 

“Being part of intramurals has provided me with a sense of community,” Becker says. “Not only with my team, but with anyone who participates.” 

With more than 1,200 teams formed each year and thousands of students participating, intramurals remain one of the most vibrant sources of connection on campus. A place where UWL students work hard, play hard and grow together.