Even under blistering heat and the thick scent of sunscreen, energy and competition thrived at the 25th annual Labor Day Kickball Tournament. Dorm halls, student organizations and commuters came together this year to form a whopping 39 teams of eager participants.

The beloved campus tradition returned September 1 on the Armory Fields, where the energy from staff and students was electric. The draft elimination-style tournament consumed the entire day thanks to the large number of participants celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Hosted by Housing and Residence Life, the event was designed to spark lifelong connections and friendships. In some cases, it even fueled serious hall rivalries—friendly competition that has added extra heat to the game for years to come.

“One of the really important things about this tournament for Housing and Residence Life is that it gives students that are new to the university an opportunity to have a fun thing to look forward to on Labor Day, so that they will stay here and make friends, rather than going home for that first long weekend,” said Shelby Roesner, Hunt Hall Resident Director.

For many, creating new connections and putting yourself out there—especially as a new student—can feel daunting. Having a soft push into active student life can make all the difference in shaping a positive college experience.

Some teams showed up in color-coordinated gear and adopted group names to add flair to the competition. For those less interested in playing, spectating, coaching or cheering offered plenty of ways to join in the excitement.

“Just go out and have fun,” said William May, a Birch Hall student participant. “I’d say sign up, and you’ll meet a lot of … people on your floor, or people who aren’t from your hall, and you get to have some competitive fun today.”

Each participant, in one way or another, was there for the same reason: to make new friends. Having such an inclusive and community-oriented event on the first official weekend of the school year is an amazing way to set up a solid foundation and create a home away from home.

Though the tournament only comes around once a year, its spirit of camaraderie, tradition and friendly rivalry will ripple through campus life until next Labor Day.

Not able to attend? No need to fret—Housing and Residence Life, along with individual residence halls, will soon take on the Dead River Games and other iconic Homecoming traditions. All students, on and off campus, are encouraged to participate. Keep an eye on The Hub for more information.