Wing Sports Day promotes healthy competition

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Coleman
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  It was a day of fun, fitness and competition when Eielson held its Wing Sports Day Sept. 24 at the Baker Field House.

Nearly 400 Icemen competed in a variety of sports while wingmen cheered from the sidelines during the day-long events.

"We hold Sports Day to boost morale and give the Airmen a chance to get out of their day-to-day work and show off their talents," said Tech. Sgt. Anthony Bonanno, 354th Force Support Squadron. "Our goal for next year is to have more squadrons and people participating but considering it was the first one I think it went great and everyone enjoyed themselves."

Throughout the day, squadrons competed in eight to ten sporting events including volleyball, football and basketball. Other events included tug-of-war, sack races, 3-legged race, and an indoor team triathlon.

"The most popular even was flag football," said Sergeant Bonanno. "It was very competitive."

Each event gave teams a chance to earn points towards a trophy. There were points give to the squadron who came in first, second, and third in each event, after all events were completed all points were added up.

The 354th Civil Engineer Squadron came in first place with 1,190 points, second place was the 354th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron with 1,165 points, and the 354th Communications Squadron finished third with 530 points.

"Sports day was a lot of fun," said Airman 1st Class Justin Rogers, assigned to the 354th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron electrical and environmental section. Airman Rogers was on the 354th AMXS basketball team and also participated in the triathlon team event. "It was great. I plan to participate again next year."

This was the first year but the 354th FSS plans to hold Sports Day again next year around the same time. To participate in Sports Day or intramural sports, Airmen should contact their squadron sports representatives for more information.