Student Ambassador Board (SAB) member Jeffrey Houston and his team compete during muddy tug-of-war. SAB’s ‘Mudball Tournament’ was held on Browning Hall Lawn.
Students had fun in the mud at the Student Ambassador Board’s “Mudball Tournament 2017†Sept. 29. on Browning Hall Lawn.
The SAB Mudball tournament is an annual tradition dating back about 30 years. It was originally created to raise money for the J. Wayne Johnson Scholarship in honor of Johnson, the U of M’s first student mascot. Not only does the tournament raise money for this cause, but it also provides an exciting and unique sporting event open to any student.
“It’s just an event where we can get all the people from every organization out to have fun and have a little break from classes,†SAB member Zachary Gilliam said.
The tournament this year consisted of teams of six competing in various events, including mud volleyball and mud tug-of-war. Mudball tournament competitor Joshua Blackwell said playing in mud was a different and strange experience for him, but it was one he thoroughly enjoyed.
“Most people don’t plan on getting dirty in the mud, but once we’re here, it’s a blast and a fun time,†Blackwell said.
SAB Mudball is unique from other, more conventional student organization events because of its heavy engagement, physical activity, high energy and, of course, the mud. SAB member Jeffrey Houston said nostalgia is one thing drawing people to Mudball.
“Why mud? Why not?†Houston said. “It’s just a lot of fun. It’s something that happens every year, and it gives everyone a chance to be a kid again and play in the mud.â€
While players in the Mudball tournament were engaged in the competition, those at the tournament who preferred to stay out of the mud also had a fun-filled day complete with snacks, drinks, and dancing to a DJ. SAB president Realan Lewis said the best part of Mudball is not the actual tournament.
“The best part is just the people,†Lewis said. “Even if you don’t want to play in the mud, the best part is being able to come around people and just have fun and dance. It’s such a very diverse group of people, and it’s really an enjoyable moment.â€
Although this year’s tournament has now passed, students can get involved in next year’s tournament by contacting a SAB board member and forming a team.
Mudball competitor Joshua Blackwell and his fraternity brother Christopher Grambergs pose together after a volleyball game in the mud.
