If you’ve never tried Bhangra, cricket, Indigenous traditional games or Indian classical dance, now’s your chance. UBC Okanagan is debuting the first installment of an Intercultural Sports Series with community partners. The fun this term kicked off Nov. 18 and continues to Dec. 2, with more planned for 2022.
“This series is a collaborative effort across many partners to find ways where students can celebrate their cultural sporting activities and learn by participating in others," said Crystal Westgate, Physical Activity and Wellbeing Coordinator, at UBC Okanagan’s Athletics and Recreation. "By structuring these non-competitive and fun activities as peer-led, we hope to allow for opportunities for building connections and friendships, and improving overall wellbeing.”
On the roster are expert-led games, workshops and activities: Latin, Bhangra and Indian classical dance (Kathak and Bharatnatyam), Indonesian Bakiak, mixed martial art Muay Thai, England’s national summer sport cricket, Sylix-rooted traditional Indigenous games, rope skipping, badminton, soccer and basketball. The aim is to involve a large array of students in cross-cultural learning through sports and games. Term 2 offerings will build on the skills students develop in Term 1.
“The level of involvement and interaction with students has been fantastic, bringing together students clubs, campus partners and off-campus partners to contribute to the success of this series," said Dr. Philipp Reichert, Director of Global Engagement for UBC's Okanagan campus. "We are looking forward to continuing to support this and other new initiatives that help support UBC’s global engagement strategy In Service and support our students as global citizens.”
Several community partners are joining UBC Okanagan’s Recreation, Indigenous Programs & Services, Global Engagement Office and UBC SUO Clubs to host the series. All students hailing from near and far are welcome, and can sign up for as many events as they like. Although students who take part in two or more sessions will automatically be entered in a drawing to win the grand prize, including a Heat Hoodie and Pendleton towel. No experience is necessary and all equipment is provided.
Register: @ubco_recreation or visit the UBC Okanagan gymnasium (BC Vaccine Card showing proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 is required)
Find out more about recreation at UBC Okanagan.
(photo: UBC Okanagan Intercultural Sport Series)