California Baptist University’s intramural basketball program provided students an opportunity to connect over a shared passion and see the game from a different perspective. The program allowed for friendly competition while fostering community at CBU.
Alec Jareno, freshman marketing major, took the opportunity to become a referee for the Recreation Center. Jareno had played basketball for 13 years, including time in the Philippines with his high school international travel ball team. His experience allowed him to see the sport from a different perspective.
After years as a player, he began viewing the game as a leader rather than just a participant. Jareno started officiating intramural games, which opened the door to a new experience early in his college career.
As an official, he experienced the game from a new perspective.
“It’s cool seeing another perspective of a way I’ve never seen it before… seeing other people play and how intricate they get,” said Jareno.
The goal of intramurals extended beyond the sport itself and focused on fostering community among students. Students learned to compete while remaining respectful even in highly competitive moments.
Referees officiated the games, but the players created the energy and excitement of competition.
Jorge Rivera, senior civil engineering major, played on a men’s intramural basketball team. In 2016, his high school team, Chino Hills, reached the semifinals. As the captain and creator of his team, Rivera aimed to win games.
“We only lost one game… so pretty confident, pretty positive,” Rivera said.
Through six games, Rivera’s team finished in fourth place. They completed the season with only one loss.
“I recruited everyone, so I just wanted to have my friends on my team,” Rivera said.
Rivera built his team to maintain chemistry with the people he competed alongside. With a well-bonded group, his friends remained competitive while also enjoying the experience. The team environment helped Rivera strengthen relationships with his friends and teammates outside the court.
“I know all of them, but this has helped us all become closer… so good bonding experience,” Rivera said.
Beyond the fun, competition and hard work, the reason many students played was as simple as building connections with teammates. Multiple teams competed while also finding ways to strengthen relationships within their groups.
Alanna Slusser, freshman architecture major, had played basketball for seven years. After playing in high school, she wanted to continue in college. Slusser said intramural basketball gave her an opportunity to meet new people.
“It has provided opportunities for new connections… I’ve met more people that I can, like, get to know more,” Slusser said.
During her freshman year, Slusser started building new friendships. By putting herself out there and participating in something she enjoyed, she formed connections with people who shared a similar passion.
“My goal has just been to, like, have fun and meet new people,” Slusser said.
Intramural basketball brought students together to compete against several teams and gave many the opportunity to build community with others at CBU.
