Intramural and Recreational Sports to Become the Department of University Recreation

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The department of Intramural and Recreational Sports will become the department of University Recreation effective July 1. The department of University Recreation will continue to offer eight programs areas: accessible recreation, facility management, fitness and wellness, instructional programs, intramural sports, the Outdoor Connection Center, special events and club sports.

“The name Intramural/Recreational Sports has become outdated and does not capture all the offerings of the department,” said Jeremy Battjes, director of the department. A change to University Recreation represents a more global representation of all eight diverse program areas offered.”

The abbreviation for University Recreation is UREC.

“Shortening the name to UREC, ties in with the university’s ‘You of A’ campaign,” said Battjes.

“The concept of ‘University Recreation’ connotes a more diverse and inclusive service provision,” said Katie Helms, assistant director of the fitness and wellness program. “Our hope is that the new name will reflect our goal of contributing to the education of University of Arkansas students with rich and long-lasting recreation experiences in a variety of areas that will continue to serve them long after graduation.”

During the 2011 spring semester, an average of 2,200 people per day used the recreational facilities. University Recreation will continue to provide more than 30 intramural activities throughout the year, organized into team sports, dual sports and individual sports. The Outdoor Connection Center will offer more than 45 day-, weekend- and week-long off-campus trips. University Recreation will also continue to offer a variety of active club sports including: men’s rugby, women’s lacrosse, bass fishing, bowling and racquetball.

“We feel that this name change will help to better brand the department and allow us to create and develop programs that meet our students’ wants and needs,” said Battjes.