By Daijah White and Darius Green / Staff Writers

Missouri Valley College Student Activities successfully concluded this academic year with a kickball tournament held on April 26. Originally planned for the Greg-Mitchell field, unexpected rain necessitated a move to the Malcolm Center gym. Despite the venue change, the event drew a large crowd.

The tournament began at 7 p.m. with a grand prize of $100 awaiting the victorious team. Although it’s typically an outdoor event, the indoor setting didn’t dampen spirits. The games were supported by a concession stand offering $2 drinks and $1 snacks, catering to spectators and players alike.

James Rowlett, director of student activities, noted the adaptability of the event.

“It was a bit different this year because of the weather and having to move the event inside the gym, but it was still a huge turnout,” he said.

The teams consisted of at least 11 players each, with a requirement of having at least three members of both genders. The winner was decided by the first team to score 15 runs or, failing that, the team with the most runs after six innings.

The night saw its share of drama and competition. One team scored an automatic win early on when their opponents failed to show, and the final game ended closely at 11:50 p.m. with a score of 4-3.

Jayson Williams, a participant, shared his excitement.

“It was fun. I just wish it was outside instead of being inside,” he said, proudly recounted his performance. “I think I did really good. I got one catch and two base kicks.”

Students like Ashley Arribas felt the tournament was a perfect end to the semester.

“The kickball intramural was fun and competitive,” she said. “It was a good way to end the semester and blow off steam.”

Others, like Wing Wong Shan, enjoyed the spectacle as bystanders.

“I didn’t play because I don’t really know the rules but it is so fun to watch,” he said.

Bryan Doga of the Water Coolers team expressed a mix of disappointment and hope.

“I had expected the game to be on an outside field and I was going to kick the ball really hard, but the gym pretty much nerfed me,” he said. “To be honest, I hoped the game would go back to being outside so I can wear my cleats, but what can you do about it?”

The kickball intramural will return around the same time next year, continuing the tradition in the final week of the school year, promising another round of excitement and community spirit.