With a flip of a switch, a new pathway for intramural sports is illuminated. The University of Oklahoma recently was able to install high-quality LED lights to illuminate the intramural fields, thanks to funding from the Student Government Association.
OU has one of the most active intramural sports programs in the country, with more than 28,000 participations each year. Additionally, the fields – located at 300 Stinson St. in Norman – host seven sport clubs and other schools in competition. Many of these activities are on a fixed schedule, predicated by the sun setting, but not anymore.
“When the proposal was presented to SGA, it just made sense to grant the funds to have lights on the recreation fields that are so widely used,” said Zack Lissau, 2022 OU Student Government Association president. “This investment is a true game changer, which ensured students could continue with extracurricular activities after class.”
Years of research found more students are striving to find their inner athlete but were limited by availability including academic schedules when more than 10,000 students were in class at 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, according to an inquiry in Fall 2021.
“Field lights are crucial for athletic events to take place after the sun has set when students are more available. Having a well-lit place for intramural sports, matches, tournaments, and free play puts player safety at the forefront,” said Amy Davenport, director of OU Fitness and Recreation. “This update allows OU to reach more students for intramural sports and create a healthier campus.”
Installing lights expands student involvement opportunities through intramural sports, develops student community, and provides an energy-efficient lighting system that is consistent with the university’s sustainability initiative, minimizing energy consumption and maintaining the natural surroundings of the facility.
“It is exciting to provide a well-lit field that serves as the ideal venue for students,” said David Surratt, OU vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students. “When I was a student here at OU, there were no lights on the Fit and Rec fields, which resulted in a limited time available to participate in intramural sports. This improvement ushers in a new era for those committed to these leagues.”
“There are many benefits to adding lights to the recreation fields," Davenport said. “The new extended availability of the fields means additional employment opportunities for students, community building, and increased student health and participation.”
