Intramural sports promote health, unity

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Intramural sports teams on Eielson Air Force Base is one way Airmen can enjoy themselves and also boost their physical training test scores.

According to Staff Sgt. Robert Gonzales, the 354th Force Support Squadron Baker Field House fitness center sports manager, promoting healthy, fun activities is one of the reasons that intramural sports are offered to Airmen.

Eielson's five main intramural sports include basketball, football, soccer, volleyball and softball.

With the basketball season coming to a close, the upcoming spring and summer sports include volleyball, softball, and golf. In addition to the squadron-level sports, weekend tournaments are being considered for sports like racquetball, basketball, tennis, football and soccer with mixed squadron teams.

Sports teams are not limited to Airmen, said Sergeant Gonzales. Teams may include active duty, guardsmen and reservists assigned to Eielson, family members 18 and older, Department of Defense civilians, contract personnel, as well as active duty foreign nationals.

Keeping Airmen "fit to fight", intramural sports help Airmen maintain the physical fitness needed to be assets to their teams both on the court and on the job.

"The players work out their muscles and raise their heart rates, so they are working out and getting fit. The best part is that people don't consider it a workout," said Sergeant Gonzales.

Intramural sports are also a good way to meet people, either as a player or a spectator.

"Participation in these sports gives units the opportunity to build their esprit de corps and fellowship. It promotes the very competitive nature among the squadrons on base. Esprit de corps, team building, unity and having fun are what it's all about," said Tony Mason, 354th Force Support Squadron Baker Field House fitness director.

The intramural sports program is an ever evolving program that allows Airmen to stay active, do something they are interested in and meet people with the same interest. Across squadrons there is the need to maintain the physical status necessary for people's individual job requirements.

"You get good cardio, strength and conditioning and you don't have to be a professional to play," said Mr. Mason. "People at all skill levels and with various skill sets can participate, have fun and get involved with their unit."

For information or to join a sports team, contact your unit sports representative.