October 29, 2024 — Marist Recreation is expanding its activities to offer students more opportunities to stay fit, have fun, and connect with their peers.

This semester, more than 1,300 students are participating in 15 fall intramural activities, supported by a team of 27 student referees. Students can now enjoy new intramural offerings like spikeball tournaments on the campus green, a home run derby, kanjam, and the return of pickleball, a fast-growing favorite. Additionally, new coed and women's divisions for classic sports like flag football and basketball make it easier for everyone to get involved.

Spikeball tournament contenders face off on the green. Photo by Alexa Attanasio/Marist College.

New Intramural Sports:

Intramural sports provide a great opportunity to engage in friendly competition, meet new people, and develop teamwork skills. This semester, students can enjoy the following new offerings:

• Pickleball: The fastest-growing sport in the U.S., pickleball is back for its second season at Marist. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, this fast-paced game is quickly becoming a student favorite!
• Spikeball: Students can now challenge their skills and compete in organized spikeball tournaments on the campus green.
• New Coed and Women's Divisions: This year, Marist Recreation is introducing new divisions in classic intramural sports like flag football and basketball, offering more opportunities for everyone to get involved.
• Cornhole: This staple of tailgates and backyard barbecues is now available for Red Foxes to participate in single-day tournaments.
• Home Run Derby: Whether you're a baseball fan or just looking to test your swing, the Home Run Derby’s single-day tournament offers a chance to show off your power at the plate, with the ultimate goal of being crowned intramural champion.
• Tennis: After a successful debut last spring, intramural tennis is returning! It’s a perfect way to enjoy friendly matches, stay active, and have fun on the courts.
• KanJam: Try this fast-paced outdoor game that combines frisbee-accuracy and teamwork.

Red Foxes competing in the basketball intramural in the McCann Center. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist College. 

Other classic intramural sports this semester include soccer, basketball, badminton, dodgeball, flag football, ping pong, and volleyball.

Students competing in intraumural soccer at Tenney Stadium. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist College. 

Stephen D’Alessandro is entering his first full year as Assistant Athletic Director for Club Sports and Camps. He has made it a priority to introduce intramural opportunities that cater to all kinds of students.

“Our job is to listen to students and adapt our offerings to meet their interests. We may not be able to provide everything, but we’re committed to evolving and finding ways to offer activities that appeal to everyone,” D’Alessandro said.

Student Referees

Drew McCauley '26 (left) and Garrett Kronenberger '25 (right) enjoying their shift as student referees for pickle-ball and tennis. Photo by Brendan Madden '26/Marist College.

Also starting this year, the entirely student referee teams will undergo comprehensive training to prepare them for their roles. This includes a two-hour class on rules of the sports, followed by a two-hour hands-on session to put their knowledge into practice. This process not only equips them to manage games effectively but also helps them develop valuable leadership and decision-making skills.

Ben Brandt '27 hitting a backhand winner in an intramural tennis match. Photo by Benson Delaney ‘27/Marist College.

Noah Gross, a junior who recently took on the role of referee, has found the new structure integral to a seamless intramural experience this fall. 

“I feel like we’ve really put in a lot more effort this year to make our calls more true to the game," Noah said.

As a longtime participant in intramural activities, Noah is enthusiastic about the growing range of activities that are available. 

“I think the expansion of intramural activities this year is fantastic. The more options students have, the better, and it’s great to see so many new ways for everyone to get involved.”

Students participating in a Pilates night class session at the McCann Center. Photo courtesy of Alexa Attanasio/Marist College.

Red Fox Fitness Classes

For students seeking a balance between physical fitness and mental wellness, Marist Recreation offers a diverse selection of fitness classes designed to accommodate different fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or challenge yourself with a high-energy workout, these classes provide a great way to stay active and relieve stress.

• Pilates: One of the most popular activities on campus, Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and posture, offering a full-body workout that leaves students feeling energized and strong. Follow @Marist_Pilates for more!
• Restorative Yoga: Students can enjoy the views from the McCann rooftop terrace while they unwind and recharge with gentle stretches and mindful breathing during Yoga.
• HIIT Training: Red Foxes can take on high-intensity interval training to challenge their endurance, build strength, and boost energy in a fast-paced workout.

Get Involved with Marist Recreation!

For more information and to get involved, visit the Marist Recreation website and discover how these activities can enhance your well-being and campus experience.