So, freshmen, you want to be a Bruin? Step one: figure out what
it is that you like to do.
Not only does UCLA have seemingly millions of people and
thousands of classes, there are just as many niches for you to
chose from.
I’m not saying you should join every organization. I only
suggest that if you have an interest, you should follow it. And one
of the most rewarding experiences ““ assuming you have a
penchant for athletics ““ is getting involved in the UCLA
sports community.
UCLA athletics stretch far beyond its 21 varsity teams: it
includes everything from co-ed intramural volleyball to club
hockey. If you weren’t this year’s hottest recruit,
that’s okay; there’s still a vast variety of
opportunities for you.
“The best decision that I made during my second year was
to join the club lacrosse team,” third-year political science
student Victoria Bohannan said. “Not only did I get in pretty
good shape and learn a new sport, I made some great friends.
“I was able to be a part of a team again, and I found
people to look up to and to count on,” she added.
Because of the caliber of both academics and athletics, many
college students sacrifice varsity opportunities at other colleges
in order to indulge their minds. At least that’s what they
tell their relatives.
At only the best universities is it common to hear that
so-and-so “would be on the team if he went to another
school.” The ability and desire of many students is
impressive.
Don’t believe me? Just check out next quarter’s IM
basketball league. On any given night you will find a multitude of
both men’s and women’s teams battling it out on the
court, not for a national championship or a chance to forego their
last two years of eligibility, but simply for the win.
A high school varsity athlete myself, when I came to UCLA it was
very clear that the only blue and gold jersey I would don would be
the one I’d wear in the student section of Pauley Pavilion.
In order to answer my craving for the competition and team unity
that had been a part of my life since I was five, I joined a group
from my dorm floor and played IM volleyball.
I was playing my favorite sport with people who loved it as much
as I did and who challenged me athletically. A and B level UCLA IM
sports are not your average recreational team. These people know
how to play, and they want to win.
For those who aren’t out for blood, there are levels that
are more recreation based.
“It was great to be able to get back into sports in a
casual way with people who just wanted to have fun,” said
Cory Putman, a third-year psychology student.
The best part about playing IM sports was that I was on a team
with girls I had played against during my previous two club
volleyball seasons. Through this experience, UCLA became a little
smaller for me.
Participation in IM or club sports drastically shrinks the size
of the UCLA community. Meeting new people is so much better when
you are doing something you enjoy together.
“Through being involved in a club team, you develop a
great sense of pride to know that you represent the University of
California Los Angeles,” third-year psychology student Nicole
Everett said. “Being part of a club team also really makes
the university feel a lot smaller. Our team feels like a really
close group of friends, almost like a family.”
Maybe after participating in a sport here you will get to know
your neighbor’s best friend’s son’s cousin Joe,
next time you’re asked. It broadens your circle and shrinks
UCLA.
Beyond the enjoyment of pursuing one’s own athletic
ability is the respect you develop from watching awesome talent
recruited by UCLA every year.
From the seats of the Rose Bowl and Pauley Pavilion, history is
made right in front of your eyes. If you’re lucky enough,
you’ll even see John Wooden at the home basketball games.
The UCLA tradition of excellence is repeated year after year.
With five more championships accrued this year alone, UCLA padded
its lead among colleges for most NCAA titles won. Even those who
swear they aren’t Bruin fans are roped into watching UCLA
duke it out during March Madness.
Whether it’s women’s rugby or ultimate Frisbee, UCLA
offers an athletic venture for your liking.
Don’t be intimidated by the size of the school.
There’s something here for everyone.
Still want to be a Bruin? Step two: pursue your interest and get
involved.
Teller is an assistant sports editor for the 2000-01 year who
would love feedback if you feel so inclined. Write to her at
[email protected].