Student body unites at Bulldog Olympics

Where can you find a competition where it’s normal to look silly while being athletic? The Bulldog Olympics is the answer. On Tuesday night, November 4th, organizations from around Union’s campus gathered to compete for a chance to earn points toward the President’s Cup. The event took place in Union’s small gym, where 12 organizations and close to 100 people competed against each other in various events. Participants played games such as “Mario Cart”, where people tied balloons around their ankle and tried not to get theirs smashed. Competitors said that though this was a competition, it is was still an enjoyable time.

Tre Gerrell, a Christian thought and tradition major and vice president of junior council, said that though his team was not doing as well as expected, he still enjoyed being around others that were willing to have fun and show support. “The out-show of school spirit, where everyone can come together and participate in this common activity, has made people come closer,” Gerrell said. “It’s bringing something to light that shows how special Union is.” Emily Russell, a senior psychology major and member of senior council member and an announcer for the Olympics, said people showing their “silliness” is what made this night especially different from past events. “The Olympics allows us to unleash our inner kid, and to just have fun and to also create a better sense of community,” Russell said. “Both in the different organizations and as well as a whole university. The way people are cheering for their teams and supporting each other’s just reminds us of why we really love Union.” Cassidy Sheppard, a junior marketing major, said one of the many reason why her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, got involved was to have friendly competition and to show community between different groups on campus. “It’s a way for us to all come together as one, as a big unity sort of thing, between Union and other groups,” Sheppard said. “It’s fun, you get to be athletic while also being silly in events, like taking an M&M and putting it inside of a cup. It’s just fun and a great time to have fun with friends.” Even people who thought that the night was going to be just a big group of silliness started coming around after a while. Will Tucker, a senior cell molecular biology major, was hesitant in the beginning but soon came around. “It’s been pretty fun,” Tucker said. “At first, the events seemed to be a little silly, but everyone started to get into it, so it makes it good. Seeing all the different groups on campus is the most enjoyable part of tonight.” Senior council was chosen to host the games, and Will Duncan, president of senior council,  said that all of the hard work and planning was all worthwhile when all of the night’s events made people enjoy playing. “Planning this entire thing was long and somewhat complicated process, but it was all worthwhile seeing everyone have fun,” Duncan said. “Senior council worked long and hard on this event, and I’m just proud to say that I have such a good team of people to work with to pull something as big as this off.” The overall winner of the Olympics games was Sigma Alpha Epsilon in first place. Second place went to Union Jaxx, and third place went to Alpha Tau Omega.