The Daily Campus

Issue date: 4/24/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Dan Gindraux Students get dirty during a game of Oozeball during last year's Spring Weekend.

When most students think of Spring Weekend, they think of huge off-campus parties and one last chance to drink and party before finals.

But many university organizations are also providing sober alternatives and activities throughout the weekend. This Spring Weekend, students can expect to see some traditional non-alcoholic events, such as Oozeball, and some new additions, such as Southapalooza, a huge carnival with an inflatable obstacle course and food.

University president Michael Hogan said that students should take care of each other, which is one way to stay safe during Spring Weekend. He also noted the on-campus alternative events.

"We can also provide them with options and alternatives that encourage a healthy celebration of Spring," Hogan said in an e-mail. "I think it is critical that the students be involved in identifying these options and putting together these kinds of programs. This is a beautiful time of year in Connecticut and we can and should celebrate it without endangering ourselves and those around us."



This year marks the 25th anniversary of Oozeball, the muddy volleyball tournament that takes place all day Saturday of Spring Weekend.



"It's the largest non-alcoholic UConn event during Spring Weekend," said Ashley Cummings, a 4th-semester horticulture major and co-chair of the event.



To commemorate its anniversary, Cummings said Oozeball has doubled its courts and registration. Last year, there were four courts with 128 teams of six players. This year, there will be eight courts with 256 teams.



Teams had to sign up prior to the event, and all spots are now full. Half the teams were signed up by the first day, according to Cummings. However, there will be bleachers at the event for anyone to watch the tournament. There will also be entertainment from D.J. Doug, a dining services barbeque from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a Dunkin' Donuts stand and drinks supplied by Coca-Cola. The event is sponsored by the Student Alumni Association.



Another active event, the Spring Weekend Dodge Ball Tournament, will be taking place today at 6 p.m. in the Student Recreational Facility. Teams had to sign up by April 21, according to the Spring Weekend Events Web Site.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools