Tiana Blount-Muscarella
Staff Writer
Intramural sports at Florida Southern College have become more than just a recreational option; They’re a cornerstone of campus life. With nearly 70% of students engaging in activities at the wellness center and about 30% participating directly in intramural (IM) sports, these programs serve as one of FSC’s most impactful student experiences.
For many students, intramurals are a key factor of campus life: a space where physical activity, mental wellness and social connection intertwine every day.
The vision behind the program all started with Emily Walker, Assistant Director of Wellness, who knows firsthand how sports can build community. As a lifelong soccer player, Walker rediscovered her love for teamwork and social skills through intramurals during her own college years.
At FSC, she’s channeled that passion into a program designed to welcome every student, from seasoned athletes to total beginners.
“The goal is simple,” Walker explains. “Create a fun, safe and accessible environment where students can move, make memories, and stay healthy.” For her, intramurals aren’t about winning trophies; They’re about helping students find their place on campus.
Intramural sports have become one of the major pillars of student involvement at FSC, blending seamlessly with the college’s broader commitment to engagement and well-being.
These programs don’t just enrich student life, they provide valuable work experience too.
About 25 student employees manage everything from scheduling to officiating games, developing real-world skills like time management, conflict resolution and leadership.
For many students, intramurals are where community and connection come alive, serving as a weekly reminder that learning at FSC extends far beyond the classroom.
IM Sports bring physical, mental and social benefits to students. Physically, intramurals encourage students to stay active, even through nontraditional sports like ultimate frisbee or Esports.
Mentally, they offer a healthy outlet for stress and a proven boost for academics. Studies often show that students who participate in recreational sports report better grades, stronger morale and improved stress management.
Socially, IMs forge friendships that last well beyond graduation, connecting students through friendly competition and shared experiences.
Even Esports, as Walker points out, contribute to this social ecosystem.
“It’s another way to bring people together who might not otherwise meet on the field or court,” Walker said.
Many students discover new passions through intramurals. Some try sports they’ve never played before and end up returning every semester. A growing highlight has been the expansion of women’s participation, with spirited rivalries like the one between Zeta Tau Alpha and the Lady Lokos, drawing big crowds, building school pride, and encouraging women empowerment and participation.
The current leader for men’s IMs is Theta Chi. For FSC’s Theta Chi fraternity, intramurals have become part of their identity.
Sophomore IM Chair Brian Harper calls the games an escape from academic pressure and a key to maintaining brotherhood.
“IMs keep us active and happy,” Harper said. “Our goal this year is to finally win the championship after coming up just short the last two years.”
The current leader for women’s IMs is Zeta Tau Alpha. Across campus, Zeta Tau Alpha’s IM Chair, junior Gussie Gurret, sees the same joy among her sisters.
“Intramurals bring us together,” she shared. “It’s one of the best ways to take a break from classes while still doing something meaningful.”
Gurret’s team especially loves ultimate frisbee for its mix of teamwork and fun.
“We want to keep inspiring more women to join,” she adds, “so that new players can feel that same excitement.”
Running such a popular program isn’t without challenges. Scheduling conflicts with other campus organizations and balancing facility space can be tough. Yet, the rewards far outweigh those hurdles.
“Seeing someone gain confidence, step into leadership, or just make new friends — that’s when you know it’s working,” Walker said.
Those who skip IMs miss out on more than just games. They lose the chance to experience a welcoming student community, the benefits of stress relief, and the thrill of earning one of FSC’s honorable championship t-shirts.
As many players say, intramurals give them something to look forward to each week: something that connects them to the larger spirit of the college.
This spring, the intramural lineup is expanding with new programs including such events such as inner tube water polo, two vs. two sand volleyball, and a flexible tennis league.
According to Walker, the goal is to make activities more inclusive and accessible. “The more variety, the more students we reach.”
Intramural sports at FSC reflect the college’s mission in motion: building community, fostering wellness, and developing leadership through collaboration.
Beyond points and playoffs, IMs are about personal growth and shared joy, an essential chapter in the student experience where everyone, regardless of skill, belongs to the team.
