Physical Education and Athletics: Special Events

Better Safe Than Sorry:
Street Smart Self-Defense Returns to SLC

September 7, 2011

This Wednesday, September 7, the Campbell Sports Center welcomed Al Medina and crew for a Street Smart Self-Defense Clinic that taught students how to defend themselves in worst-case scenarios. Students were instructed not just on how to defend themselves if a situation goes really badly, but how to recognize a situation and evade or diffuse it.

The group was very enthusiastic as Al took students through different scenarios and how to deal with each as it may arise. Along with each scenario, he taught students holds, kicks, and other defensive techniques. He utilized a number of real-life scenarios to illustrate his points.

We were very fortunate to have Al lead this clinic, who earlier in the year spent time in Egypt training their security forces. Al worked in law enforcement in the boroughs of New York City for 22 years.

The focus of the night was on getting away from a questionable and potentially dangerous situation before it leads to a need for some of the physical techniques Al taught. We’d like to thank Al and his crew for bringing his techniques to campus and also a special thanks to the Sarah Lawrence Security Department for co-sponsoring this very important clinic.

Belly Dancing Moves a Crowd at the Campbell Sports Center

September 6, 2011

On Tuesday, September 6, Belly Dancing Class returned to the Campbell Sports Center. There was a packed house in the studio for this ancient art-turned-modern workout.

Students were led through a series of moves throughout the night. The music carried them through the workout, as participants’ arms flowed and hips moved and they got lost in the rhythms. Along the way, each move on its own made for great exercise, but together, the moves built up to a flowing and fun routine that was both workout and fluid dance. Participants were pleased to find they had picked up the whole routine during the course of the evening without even knowing they were learning a full dance. First year graduate student Jeanette said the class was a lot of fun and a great workout.

Immediately following the class, in unison the group asked when they could do it again and left practicing their moves right out the Sports Center door that night!

Play It and They'll Come:
Annual Ultimate Frisbee Match Kicks Off the Year

August 30, 2011

As is the slogan of Ultimate Frisbee players everywhere, “In the spirit of the game,” so went the annual Ultimate Frisbee match played during orientation week. The intention of the match is to introduce first-years to some new friends and let upperclassmen get reacquainted with old friends while greeting the new students during a friendly game.

The teams were divided down the middle with students—be it first-year or returning senior—playing side-by-side. Players rotated in and out of the game in the spirit of fair play, but also because when you don't play Ultimate for awhile, you get a little out of shape.

Everyone enjoyed playing and had so much fun, score wasn't an issue and there were no losers on the field. Teams just played until everyone needed a breath, then they headed over to the refreshment table, got some water, caught a second wind and were ready to throw the disc again.

The match proved to also be a good opportunity for those who play on the Ultimate Frisbee Club Team to do some recruiting for the upcoming fall tournaments while sharing stories about past games.

Everyone had a great time and many made a 'playdate' to meet again on the Ultimate Frisbee Field—anywhere there's a patch of grass—until Intramurals and the club team get underway.

Thanks to everyone who came out. It was a fun event that we look forward to every year!