By: Connor Roehrig, Senior
As my time at Miami University comes to an end this December, I can’t help but reflect on some of the most memorable experiences that have shaped my college journey. For me, one of the biggest highlights has been my involvement in intramural sports. From my very first semester to now, playing and working with the intramural program has been a central part of my college life—and it’s something I would highly encourage others to dive into, too!
A Journey That Started on the Field
When I first arrived at Miami, I knew I wanted to stay active and get involved, but I wasn’t sure how. Luckily, I found intramural soccer, and it quickly became a passion of mine. As a freshman, I didn’t have a team, so I joined as a free agent and was determined to find the right group of people to play with. That’s when I stumbled upon a team that would soon become more than just a collection of players—it would turn into a tight-knit group of friends.
For the next four years, I played soccer with these friends every semester, each season bringing us closer together. We bonded not only over the game but also over the fun, the competition, and the camaraderie that came with each match.
Taking It to the Next Level: Becoming a Referee
By the time I hit my sophomore year, I felt that I wanted to give back to the intramural community and get even more involved. That’s when I decided to apply to become a soccer referee. It was one of the best decisions I made.
Being a referee wasn’t just about learning the rules of the game—it was about gaining a whole new perspective on how things run behind the scenes. I spent two years working for the intramural program, and in that time, I not only honed my skills as a referee, but I also took on the role of a supervisor. This was an incredible opportunity to meet even more people who shared my love of soccer and the intramural experience.
Building Relationships and Creating Memories
One of the best parts of my intramural journey has been the people I’ve met along the way. From fellow players to the referees and supervisors, the intramural community is filled with passionate individuals who are all there for the same reason: to enjoy the game and build lasting memories.
Ruchelle, Alec, and the entire team of soccer referees were especially great to work with. Their enthusiasm, dedication, and positive attitude made my time as an intramural employee even more enjoyable. It’s these connections and relationships that have truly made my college experience unforgettable.
Why Intramurals Matter
Looking back, I can honestly say that intramural sports have been one of the most rewarding aspects of my college life. Not only did they keep me active and engaged, but they also provided a space to form lasting friendships, learn new skills, and get involved in the university community. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, intramurals offer something for everyone—fun, competition, and a chance to meet new people.
As I prepare to graduate in December, I’ll carry these experiences and memories with me, and I’ll always be thankful for the incredible role that intramural sports played in shaping my time at Miami. For anyone still on the fence about joining an intramural team or becoming an official—go for it! You never know how much it might enrich your college experience.
Good luck to everyone, and remember: the game’s always more fun when you’re part of the team.