Chaminade University Intramurals: The Fading Roar of Campus Sports and the Quest for Revival
For many students at Chaminade University of Honolulu, intramural sports were more than just games; they were the heartbeat of campus social life, a vibrant source of community, and a cherished tradition. Yet, recent years have seen this once-thriving pillar of Chaminade University fade, leaving many to wonder about the future of recreational play on campus. What happened to the packed gyms, the friendly rivalries, and the spontaneous camaraderie that defined intramural sports?
The Golden Age of Chaminade Campus Sports
Just a few years ago, the McCabe gym buzzed with energy. Students eagerly signed up for tournaments, forming teams with friends and competing for campus bragging rights. These events were a cornerstone of Chaminade student life, offering a unique opportunity for organized sports without the intense commitment of varsity athletics. Ethan Langkilde, a student who fondly recalls playing in the 2024 intramural basketball tournament and other club-organized events, expresses a sentiment shared by many:
“I do miss playing intramurals because I got to bring all my friends together on one team,” Langkilde reminisces. “You can say that everybody misses it. Everybody wishes there were games last year and more this year.”
His words paint a vivid picture of a time when Chaminade University intramurals were a reliable source of connection and excitement.
Unpacking the Decline: Challenges in Student Engagement
The disappearance of these popular events isn’t due to a lack of student interest, but rather a complex web of logistical and administrative challenges. Andrew Ancheta, Director of Student Engagement, points to significant staffing and leadership changes within his office as the primary culprits. Between 2021 and 2025, the Office of Student Engagement (OSE) saw four different directors, each with varying priorities for Chaminade intramural sports.
Ancheta highlights that large-scale tournaments demand extensive planning, coordination, and personnel – resources that have become increasingly scarce. While the Spring 2024 5-on-5 intramural basketball tournament in McCabe gym was a resounding success, attracting more students than many varsity games, its execution required a level of support that is no longer consistently available. Currently, the OSE operates with just one full-time staff member supported by part-time student workers, a stark contrast to many universities where entire teams are dedicated solely to campus recreation and intramural sports.
A Glimmer of Hope: Adapting to Current Resources
Despite these hurdles, the Student Engagement department remains committed to fostering community at Chaminade University. They have intentionally scaled back programming to align with available resources, introducing smaller, more manageable activities like an October pool tournament and plans for similar events in the spring. While these activities may not replicate the scale or excitement of past tournaments, they still offer valuable opportunities for students to connect and engage in recreational play.
Ancheta affirms the OSE’s belief in the power of intramurals:
“Yes, they certainly bring groups of students together,” he states. “During the games themselves, students also form community by attending to watch and cheer on their friends.”
However, he also acknowledges past concerns regarding sportsmanship and overly heated competitions, issues that require careful management in larger events.
Beyond the Games: Building Campus Community
For students like Ethan Langkilde, intramural sports are far more than just a diversion. They are crucial for meeting new people, forging connections, and cultivating a strong sense of belonging within the Chaminade campus community. In a dynamic city like Honolulu, these opportunities for structured social interaction are invaluable.
The hope shared by both students and staff is that robust, organized intramural sports tournaments can make a full return when resources and funding permit. In the interim, various clubs and other Chaminade University offices are stepping up to organize smaller games. Strong student turnout and participation in these scaled-down events are critical, as this support could help justify greater investment in larger programs down the line for the Office of Student Engagement.
The Path Forward for Chaminade Intramurals
The future of intramural sports at Chaminade University remains a work in progress, intrinsically linked to resource availability, consistent leadership, and the persistent voice of its students. Students continue to express their desire for more opportunities to play, underscoring the profound impact these activities have on their university experience. As Langkilde poignantly recalls:
“Playing in McCabe with all my friends was one of my best memories of being here. I hope we get that chance to play again and bring together the school.”
Until then, the Chaminade University community watches with anticipation, hoping to see the beloved tradition of campus sports return stronger and more vibrant than ever, once again uniting students under the banner of friendly competition and shared experience.
