Teams compete for playoff spots
During the fall season, students of Texas A&M University-Kingsville had the opportunity to select a group of friends and peers to have matches against other soccer teams of the university.
The 2023 season includes eight teams going head-to-head for the recreational soccer playoffs.
Male and female students are given the chance to extend their involvement in soccer after their high school career, they can also discover a new hobby in the making.
“I have been playing intramural soccer for two years. I choose to play because of the love I have for the sport runs deep inside me, and it keeps me in shape,” junior student Julian Rivera from team K-City said.
This not only allows for continuous athletic development, but also encourages an active lifestyle. “Intramural sports gives kids the chance to compete in athletics after high school that’s not at the varsity collegiate level.
They can socialize and have a good time in a sport setting with their other classmates,” Intramural Sports Director Malik Jones said “ They have the chance to compete in a friendly more fun environment.”
In October, the co-ed teams start practicing and playing against each other every Tuesday at the intramural fields. This continues for several weeks as they get ready for the playoff games beginning in November.
Each team has high hopes for their advancement in the playoffs, fueled by the performances shown during the pre-playoff matches.
These performances serve as a strong sign of their potential success in the playoffs.
“My team’s performances so far have been pretty good. We got good chemistry, and we do what we need to do in order to win,” Rivera said “We also have lots of love for the sport, and that also plays a role into our winningness because we are passionate about our craft.” Students passionate about joining soccer and getting involved with intramural sports are encouraged to join the fun.
“Yes this is all for fun, but my competitive nature always takes over. And thankfully I have a team that knows the game and wants to win just as much,” junior Mia Gonzalez from team 2 Goals 1 Cup said.
Intramural soccer isn’t limited to those with previous experience.
It’s open to everyone looking to try something new, stay active, be competitive and build new friendships.
“I hope that more people can sign up. And if you’re interested in soccer, you don’t have to be a soccer pro. You just learn the sport as you go. Just go out there and have a good time while spending time with your friends ” Jones said.
Be sure to look out for more upcoming championship games every Tuesday.
The team are now preparing for their shot at playoffs this season in November.
If you are interested in keeping up with them for further updates be sure to follow them on their Instagram account
@tamukrecsports.
