It doesn't take a complex, empirically developed university study to list the benefits of joining an intramural sports team on campus. The exercise will keep you active as you face the mythical "Freshman 15," and the social interaction can foster friendships that could last a lifetime. And if nothing else will convince you, playing some kind of sport — competitive or not — can just downright be a lot of fun.
Here are just a few of the more than 150 intramural teams sponsored by the Campus Recreation Center. Some are common and some are a little bit odd:
4-on-4 sand volleyball: Enjoy the last bits of the summer sun on the Rec courts around campus. It's no Long Beach, but it's just as much fun. (Deadline – Aug. 26; cost – $35/team)
Flag football: You may not be suiting up in Memorial Stadium, but your team might want to bring its own Tunnel Walk for these popular and competitive games. Just be ready for the always quick-to-change Nebraska weather. (Deadline – Sept. 7; cost – $50/team)
Broomball: It's kind of like hockey without the puck … or the skates. This northern-originating game made its way south to Lincoln some time ago, and the late-night games are popular fun around these parts. (Deadline – Oct. 5; cost – $50/team)
Battleship: Grab three of your favorite scallywags, snag a couple of ships (read: canoes) and get set to do battle on the high seas … or, the Mable Lee pool, anyway. Test your sea legs as you try to sink your opponents' ships before they sink you. (Deadline – Nov. 30; cost – $15/team)
Bowling: Hit up the lanes with some of your floormates and see how many strikes you can rack up at the Lanes at the East Campus Union. Whether you regularly put up 300s or struggle to break 50, fun times are guaranteed. (Deadline – Dec. 3 and 5; cost – $6/player)
For a complete list of sports and their registration deadlines and costs, check out the Rec's website: crec.unl.edu
bradyjones@dailynebraskan.com
is a member of the 
