Intramural Sport
Coined by a Latin professor who doubled as a member of the Athletic Committee at the University of Michigan, the term intramurals directly translates to “within walls” and refers to all sports competitions taking place within a university (Hyatt, 1977). Though they were not labeled as such at the time, intramural competitions emerged from the Health Reform Movement when the United States’ oldests universities began to encourage their students to get involved with physical activities during their leisure time to complement a sound mind with a sound body (Morais, 2019). In the 1820’s, many universities began constructing gymnasiums on campus that featured gymnastics equipment, body-weight exercise equipment, and swimming pools which allowed students to focus on personal health and wellness (Hyatt, 1977).
As team sports, such as football or baseball, gained popularity amongst college students in the 1850’s, student-leaders began sports clubs. These clubs began organizing games, leagues, and meets for students within the university to compete in (Hyatt, 1977). To this day, universities across the globe encourage their students to live an active lifestyle. At most schools, intramural leagues are played with a prize in mind. Though the athletes are working towards winning the leagues prize, incentive to play intramurals comes from within. Students will find a love for competition and camaraderie within intramurals sport. This research project focuses on the relationship between Trinity Intramurals and its largest participant: members of Greek Life organizations. The goal of this exhibit is to showcase the positive relationships students have formed through intramurals over time at Trinity University.