SPORTS
LAURA ROWE AREY models classic styles from the pro shop at Columbia Country Club.
Painting joy
Interior Painting
Whether you need a single wall or bedroom painted or your entire household, our professional interior painters can get the job done quickly and with perfection.
Exterior Painting
The exterior of a house is the first thing people see when they walk up to the door. Beautiful, consistent, and even colors throughout will make your house stand out.
Cabinet Painting
We use the proper coatings and techniques that will give you a longlasting, quality finish that most are unable to achieve with ordinary painting tools and box store products.
Commercial Projects
We understand time spent not operating is money lost to your business. We work efficiently and effectively, so that you can get back to running your business with as little downtime as possible.
New kiddie pool play structure and improved entrance at the Activity & Recreation Center (ARC)
New race headquarters at Gans Creek Cross Country Course
Expansion of Columbia Sports Fieldhouse including four new courts
Retiree Civic Match Making Program
Are you retired and living in Boone County?
The CoMo Give 5 program can help you match your skills and passions with a local nonprofit in need of your expertise. Sign up today to join the next Cohort!
Current Estate Tax Exemption Amounts Expected to Sunset at the End of 2025
The upcoming sunset of the current lifetime gift and estate tax exemption amounts could increase the number of high-net-worth individuals impacted by the estate tax. Federal estate taxes are levied on estates with a fair market value exceeding the exemption amount set by the IRS. Absent new legislation, this “basic exclusion amount” is poised for a substantial reduction in 2026.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), passed in 2017, increased the basic exclusion amount from $5.49 million to $11.18 million, indexed for inflation. This change is temporary, as these provisions of the TCJA are scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025.
The 2024 basic exclusion amount is $13.61 million for individuals and $27.22 million for married couples. Unless further legislation is passed, the basic exclusion amount will revert on January 1, 2026, to $5 million per individual, as adjusted for inflation.
Strategies for Estate Tax Efficiency
Given the uncertainty regarding which direction the basic exclusion amount will move in 2026, it is important to implement a proactive strategy now to maximize tax efficiency. Several strategies can be used to proactively reduce the value of your taxable estate, which can reduce your estate tax liability.
● Annual Exclusion Cash Gifts: In 2024, you can gift up to $18,000 per year (or $36,000 for married couples filing jointly) to as many individuals as you want. These annual cash gifts do not count against your lifetime exemption and are not taxable.
● 529 Plan Accelerated Gifts: You can accelerate five years of gifts to fund 529 plans. This means you can gift a lump sum of up to $90,000 in a single year tax-free.
● Establish a Trust: Various types of trusts can lower the value of your taxable estate. For example, a spousal lifetime access trust (SLAT) reduces the taxable estate of one spouse by transferring assets into a trust for the benefit of the other spouse. An irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) can remove the value of a life insurance policy from the taxable estate. Other trusts like dynasty trusts and credit shelter trusts can also be used to maximize estate tax efficiency.
Commerce Trust Can Help
The Commerce Trust team of financial planners, private client advisors, estate and tax specialists, investment managers, and private bankers, alongside your estate planning attorney and accountant, can help you explore the variety of options available to you and assist with making educated decisions based on your goals and unique financial situation.
SPORTS MEDICINE INJURY CLINIC
An early morning walk-in clinic for sports injuries.
We know sport- and exercise-related injuries don’t happen at convenient times. That’s why MU Health Care’s Missouri Orthopaedic Institute offers an early morning walk-in clinic — Monday through Friday, 7 to 8 a.m. — for injuries suffered within the last week. With on-site services like X-ray, bracing and therapy, we’ve got everything you need to get in, out and on with your day.
Learn more at muhealth.org/sportsinjuryclinic.
MANAGEMENT
Erica Pefferman, President Erica@comocompanies.com
EDITORIAL
Publisher | Erica Pefferman Erica@comocompanies.com
Editor | Jodie Jackson Jr Jodie@comocompanies.com
DESIGN
Creative Director | Kate Morrow Kate@comocompanies.com
Senior Designer | Jordan Watts Jordan@comocompanies.com
MARKETING
Director of Web Services J. J. Carlson JJ@comocompanies.com
Marketing Representative Sarah Hempelmann Shempelmann@comocompanies.com
Marketing Representative Becky Roberts Becky@comocompanies.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Keith Borgmeyer, Charles Bruce III
MARKETING
Director of Sales | Charles Bruce Charles@comocompanies.com
OUR MISSION
To inspire, educate, and entertain the citizens of Columbia with quality, relevant content that reflects Columbia’s business environment, lifestyle, and community spirit.
CONTACT
The COMO Companies 404 Portland, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 499-1830 | comomag.com @wearecomomag
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Magazines are $5.95 an issue. Subscription rate is $54 for 12 issues for one year or $89 for 24 issues for two years. Subscribe at comomag.com or by phone.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Candice Ball, Beth Bramstedt, Barbara Buffaloe, Caroline Dohack, Lauren Sable Freiman, Lori Galaske, Gabe Huffington, Jodie Jackson Jr, Hoss Koetting, Erica Pefferman, Kelsey Winkeljohn
Ready? Set! Where?
Ihave grown up around sports my whole life. Although, not in the way one might think. Growing up in Joplin (otherwise known as the Four States), we never had a team that was the hands down favorite. Collegiate football teams from Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri were equally cheered for. Basketball wasn’t really a thing for us.
e local university, Missouri Southern State University, didn’t have anything close to the school spirit that Mizzou has. You’d never even know it was game day when the Lions were playing. Of course, the Chiefs did dominate NFL conversations even in the worst of years. For my family, golf was the sport of choice. I grew up on the golf course with my Papa teaching me how to pitch and putt in his backyard.
My kids, however, became sports ends. All three boys played football from kindergarten tykes and up. I have memories of the busiest twelve weeks of the year with boys practicing and playing seven days a week. With three boys on separate teams, it never failed that we were eating fast food in my minivan parked near the sidelines and coordinating who was with what kid and when and who was going to go locate missing parts to Colton’s uniform. It never lined up at the same eld on the same day.
Andrew played tennis and football. Colton, Andrew, and Cameron committed to football even to the point that two of them played semi-pro. Elizabeth tried her hand at basketball. Even though she enjoyed the game, her 5’0” frame ( ey used to put her in the program as 5’2”) wasn’t built for it. She is now committed to training in kickboxing.
Katie, the baby of the family, has played softball since the catcher’s gear was bigger than her tiny body. She also tried
her hand at basketball and volleyball, but her heart always remained on the eld.
Whatever they participated in, they learned teamwork, positivity, commitment, communication, leadership, time management, and con ict resolution. I am proud of each of them and love the fact that we still play golf together as a family…carrying on our family tradition.
As sports plays a big part in my family’s life, it does in the life of Columbia. Who doesn’t love the crackle of a Mizzou home football game? e money that comes in from sports tourism funds our city. Even if you don’t play or participate in sports, it impacts your lives in ways you don’t see. I hope you enjoy the pages of this issue. It was fun to put together!
ERICA PEFFERMAN PUBLISHER erica@comocompanies.com
Columbia Country Club member, Laura Rowe models classic styles from the pro-shop.
Photo by Keith Borgmeyer.
We take pride in representing our community well and we couldn’t do what we do without our COMO Magazine advisory board. Thank You!
Beth Bramstedt
Church Life Pastor Christian Fellowship Church
Heather Brown
Strategic Partnership Officer Harry S Truman VA Hospital
Nickie Davis
Executive Director The District, Downtown CID
Sam Fleury
Assistant Vice President
Strategic Communications, Columbia College
Jeremiah Hunter
Assistant Police Chief
Commander Investigations Bureau Columbia Police Department
Chris Horn
Sr. Reinsurance Manager American Family Insurance
Kris Husted
Senior Content Editor NPR Midwest Newsroom
Amanda Jacobs Owner Jacobs Property Management
Megan Steen
Chief Operating Officer, Central Region Burrell Behavioral Health
Nathan Todd
Business Services Specialist First State Community Bank
Wende Wagner
Director of Resource Development
The Boys and Girls Club of the Columbia Area
Have a story idea, feedback, or a general inquiry? Email Jodie@comocompanies.com.
ask Ashley
“Hi Ashley! I’ve been invited to a holiday party. It’s an organized party but not a formal plated dinner party. Would it be okay if I were to bring a significant other or a friend to the party? The host is a good friend of mine, but what is the proper etiquette?”
Dear COMO Mag Readers, It is a delight to have my very own “Ask Ashley” article as it’s been a dream of mine since I was a child. I vividly remember combing through the newspaper for the Dear Abby article in the Sunday paper (right after reading through “The Funnies”), soaking up her advice as if it were the Bible truth. I suppose it served me well as educating my clients on topics like etiquette, navigating social norms, and blending tradition with modern trends as a wedding and event planner seems to be a majority of the tasks I tackle during our planning process. My hope is that I do Abby justice while also bringing my own flair, opinions, and well researched information to the table. So, let’s dive in!
-
Ready to Party
DEAR PARTY GIRL:
If this is a good friend of yours, give them a call and ask if they would be able to accommodate a plus-one guest. However, there are several factors that would be wise to consider — is the ask coming on the day of the event? Then, I would suggest you go to the party solo. If it’s a week in advance, it’s worth the phone call. Additionally, if this is a newer relationship, I understand the eagerness to show off your new love interest to your friend group, which is why I would assume the original invite was not extended. However, the host has likely purchased food and beverages with the confirmed guest count a week in advance, so maybe encourage your plus-one to bring a bottle of wine as a gift and a PB&J eat ;)
Como Blitzball
Baseball with a splash of impossible-to-hit pitches.
BY LORI GALASKE
It’s a little-known fact that with eight teams and thirty-two players, Columbia boasts the largest Blitzball league in the nation; and it is managed much like professional sports with contracts, drafts, and free agents; but every league has a story.
WHAT IT IS
Blitzball is a game for everyone who loves baseball — and everyone who doesn’t. What began as a backyard family-friendly slice of summer fun has become a nationally played sport that includes a World Series played in Tampa, Florida every January.
“ e best thing about Blitzball is that it simpli es all the greatest things about baseball,” says Caden Sartain, one of the COMO League directors.
A professional Blitzball eld looks like a typical baseball eld except that it’s about one-third the size. (To check out the COMO eld, head to Midway Golf and Games). A team consists of a pitcher and three elders. One of the biggest di erences between baseball or Wi e ball and Blitzball is that a Blitzball has seventy-two
nated alike. Working with elementary and middle school-age kids in the community is one of their primary goals.
“A lot of time in youth sports, there is more and more pressure to perform,” Chandler explains, “but at the end of the day, the goal should be to fall in love with the sport and have fun.” Caden agrees and highlights the relationship aspect of the game, adding, “It’s about being with friends and enjoying Blitzball.”
COMO BLITZBALL TEAMS
• Redbirds
• Mustangs
• Vipers
• Ducks
• Riptides
• Crushers
• Steamrollers
• Phoenix
sides. A pitcher has a lot of options with that kind of ball. A game lasts three innings, or about an hour, with pitches no faster than 80 mph., six balls equal a walk, and no umpires allowed.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
e COMO Blitzball League began about ten years ago, when brothers Chandler and Caden Sartain were carefree kids, and their neighbor introduced them to the game. ey immediately fell in love with it and played whenever they could. A couple of years into playing, the Sartains began to post their games on YouTube. eir channel didn’t get much traction, and the brothers were ready to let it go when one of the videos went viral. at was all they needed.
IN THE COMMUNITY
While professional sports teams are heavy on competition and wins, the Sartains’ style of Blitzball emphasizes relationships and fun. e game can be played by the young and old, the athletic, and uncoordi-
Games are played at the newly built eld at the end of Van Horn Tavern Road. Games are typically played on Sundays but with some players who live out of town — and all of them have jobs — the game schedule is uid. ey hope to have a COMO tournament in the fall, inviting teams from around the country to play and the general mid-Missouri public to watch.
THE CHALLENGES
e biggest challenge that the Sartains face is time. Blitzball is their passion, and while it does bring in some income from advertisers, Caden is in college, and Chandler must earn a living at a full-time job, which is (conveniently) with the Blitzball company. As directors of the league, it’s their responsibility to handle the business side, plan events, and schedule games. ey also do the video editing and content creation for their more creative clips. A twenty-minute clip is the product of roughly fourteen hours of video footage from eight di erent cameras around the eld.
Blitzball has claimed a spot on the national scene, and although it’s not as wellknown as other sports that had their beginning in someone’s backyard, it’s well on its way.
COMO BLITZBALL COMOBlitzball@gmail.com
YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X: @COMOBlitzball
TikTok: @COMOBlitzballyt
Creature Comforts
BY CANDICE BALL
Animals crave and thrive on exercise, just like people do. One local business makes it a mission to ensure all pets receive the care, attention, and activity that their owners know they need. Creature Comforts of Columbia o ers a strong menu of services to pet owners — including daily dog walking, adventure hikes, and puppy care.
Creature Comforts of Columbia has been in operation since 2013. At its inception, the team consisted of just Jill Boone and her husband, Nathan, who still coowns the business, and Jill said she happened onto the idea quite naturally.
“I had graduated college with a degree in animal science,” Boone explained, “and I was working in a veterinary ofce. One of the pet sitters was moving to Kansas City, and she had discussed referring some of her clients over to me, as I was doing some pet sitting, kind of on the side, while I was still working at the o ce.”
Boone said she’d already wondered about making the leap to full-time pet-related care. With the other pet sitter leaving and referring clients to Boone, the time was right.
“[It] kind of showed me that there was a true need to make it a full-time job, and not just a side gig,” she said. “ at gave me the courage to leave my full-time job and pursue pet sitting and dog walking full time.”
By 2019, Boone was working fteen hours a day, and knew it was time to expand the team — and, as she calls it, the family. She has chosen that team carefully, with special attention given to potential employees’ goals, experience, and expectations. ere are now eight employees in addition to Jill and Nathan.
“One of the major things we do is take care of the pets as the clients want them taken care of. Every family is di erent, and something as simple as following direct instructions is a big deal to us,” Boone said. “ ere are a lot of details that need to be taken care of
and followed. We’ve found a lot of [our team members] through employees we already had, because they understand what it takes. Once you nd what works, you want to stick with that, and that’s what we’ve tried to do. It’s so nice to have employees refer people they know and trust.”
Creature Comforts prides itself on helping families keep their animals in shape when there are personal or professional factors that make doing so difcult. Sometimes families simply need to outsource an afternoon walk. Sometimes the clients commute and can’t make it home for a lunchtime stroll.
Sometimes professionals have regularly-changing schedules, so their pets might need attention at varying hours. Boone said that is especially common in working families that have large dogs that need exercise. She also works with individuals who have physical restrictions and also depend on their fur babies for support and companionship. Boone’s goal is to help set up pets for success by working closely with and providing support to their pet parents.
e adventure hikes became part of the company’s o erings last spring.
“We try to pick di erent places that are close [to our clients]: people have di erent places they like to go with their dogs,” Boone said. e dogs get to exercise within their own households (no co-mingling with unfamiliar animals).”
ose walks usually take place in the morning and last about two hours. Creature Comforts will pick up your dog at your home.
“Mental and physical exercise and external stimulation is so important for all dogs,” Boone said, “and for larger dogs in particular, because they’re often more active in general, and if they don’t get the stimulation they need, they can do behaviors that aren’t desirable, like barking incessantly, or destructive behavior in the house, because they’re just bored, or because they have separation anxiety ...
We’re all busy, and sometimes we want to come home and sit down, but our dogs are like, ‘Dude, I’ve been here by myself; let’s play.’”
CREATURE COMFORTS OF COLUMBIA 573-333-7387 creaturecomfortscomo@gmail.com creaturecomfortsofcolumbia.com
OUTDOOR FUN.
THE OPTIONS ARE LIMITLESS. The Warrensburg area’s natural beauty is almost guaranteed to get you outside and enjoying the surroundings. Take advantage of hiking and biking trails, lakes, and soccer and baseball fields, or swing by any of the three golf courses. If you are looking for an outdoor getaway, Warrensburg is the place for you!
Tiger Stretch Sesh
For many of Mizzou’s student-athletes, hot yoga has become an important part of training.
BY CAROLINE DOHACK
When Brandy Turner launched Lotus Hot Yoga three years ago, she had a vision for a boutique-style practice, something on the smaller side to o er an intimate yoga environment. What she couldn’t have imagined was that it would quickly become the go-to spot for many Mizzou athletes seeking to stretch their bodies and clear their minds.
In January 2022, about eight months after Lotus opened its doors, Tiger quarterback Brady Cook and Barrett Banister, who at the time played wide receiver, approached her with a proposal: ey would promote her business to other football players in exchange for discounted classes.
e NCAA had just implemented its name, image, likeness — commonly known as NIL — policy, which allows student-athletes to make money on their personal brands. Among the activities allowed under this right of publicity policy is taking on a liate/ambassador roles.
“Being a new studio, we were able to o er a trade [of classes] for recognition,” Turner says.
Cook and Banister made good on their end of the deal and spread the word to their teammates.
“Pretty quickly, most of the o ensive line started coming in with them, especially during the o season,” Turner says.
PICK YOUR POSE
Most of the classes at Lotus are rooted in vinyasa, a dynamic style known for uid ows from one asana, or pose, to another. Movements are coordinated with breathwork. Vinyasa can improve not only exibility but also muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and emotional stability.
Lotus also o ers yin classes. ese involve holding asanas for longer peri-
ods — typically two to ve minutes — to target the ligaments and fascia. As with vinyasa, breathwork is important. In this case, it gives you something to focus on while you work through the “comfortable discomfort.” Bene ts of yin include improved exibility and range of motion, circulation, and emotional balance.
On the weekends, there is also restorative yoga. ese non-heated classes are focused on breath, movement, and stretching. Restorative yoga can help
slow the heart rate and regulate blood pressure and can be especially bene cial to people struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches, or other stress-related conditions.
SOME LIKE IT HOT
Although Lotus does o er non-heated classes, hot yoga is the big draw. Benets of bringing the heat include deeper stretches, improved circulation, and the satisfaction of getting in a good sweat.
From left to right: Tre’Vez Johnson, Brandy Turner, Brady Cook, and Cody Schrader
“It’s hot,” Turner says. “Temps are around 104 and 105 with about 35 to 40 percent humidity — very much like a Missouri summer.”
Cook, who goes to Lotus once a week, says this combo of heat and humidity is the perfect thing to prepare players for the SEC’s often-punishing weather conditions.
“Going into training camp in August, it helps prepare for being in that immense heat and moving our bodies,” Cook says.
Safety Tre’Vez Johnson, who has been going to yoga twice a week since Cook introduced him to it, echoes that idea.
“It de nitely helps make it easier to get acclimated to whatever environment you’re playing in that day or that week,” he says. “ is year we play at South Carolina. at’ll be a pretty hot game.”
THE ATHLETIC ADVANTAGE
Although some athletes might dismiss yoga as “just stretching,” players like Cook and Johnson will be the rst to tell you it’s no joke.
“It was de nitely a lot harder than I expected,” Cook says of his rst session. “We were exhausted, but at the same time rejuvenated. We knew we got good work in.”
Cook credits yoga with improving his mobility — that is, the range of motion around his joints — thus decreasing his risk for injury.
“Playing football at this level, your body gets put in a lot of interesting positions where you’re getting hit; you’re getting tangled up, your leg might be facing that way,” Cook says. “Having that pliability helps a lot.”
Because vinyasa ows can be fast paced, there’s a cardio bene t as well.
“It’s great exercise for conditioning and stamina,” Johnson says.
And because so many of the asanas activate the core — the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints in the abdomen, back, hips, and glutes — it can also improve balance and stability.
Running back Cody Schrader, who signed as an undrafted free agent with the San Francisco 49ers this past spring, says a boost in balance has resulted in big improvements to his game.
“I see it the most as I’m running toward the sideline. Instead of running out of bounds, it’s like I’m on a tightrope. I’m getting in three or four more yards,” Schrader says. “I’m able to keep my balance in a tight space while people are trying to hit me.”
MINDFULNESS MATTERS
Mindfulness has always been a key element to Turner’s teaching style. “It’s not a workout, it’s a work in,” she’s fond of saying.
For Sean East II, who played point guard for the Tigers basketball team before signing an Exhibit 10 deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, the mindfulness aspect is huge.
East says he enjoys the challenge of going through the vinyasa ows in 100-plus-degree heat. Forcing himself to stay mentally present in that physical challenge has given him a new mental resilience.
“If you can endure the intense yoga session, I think you can endure almost anything,” East says
Guard Tamar Bates says the ability to keep a clear head and focus on the challenge ahead of him — on and o the mat — has been huge.
“When it’s loud and you’re on the road and the crowd is rocking, you have to nd that calm and peace and execute when it matters most,” Bates says.
Of course, it’s not only athletes who bene t from yoga’s mindfulness component.
“It has not only helped my body physically, but has really helped me mentally
Left: Brandy Turner and Cody Schrader; Middle: Cody Schrader and Brady Cook; Right: Nathaniel Noel, Brady Cook, and Marcus Carroll
“If you can endure the intense yoga session, I think you can endure almost anything.”
– SEAN EAST II
as well,” says Lindsey Drinkwitz, wife of Tigers head football coach Eli Drinkwitz. “After enduring several panic and anxiety attacks, it truly helps bring a sense of calm to me and has taught me some much-needed breathing and relaxation techniques I am able to apply outside of the studio.”
THE COMMUNITY ASPECT
e athletes do stand out in the studio. ey’re taller than most people, and they’re often decked out in Mizzou gear. But if anyone’s feeling starstruck during sun salutation, well, it has not been an issue.
Turner says her goal is to ensure a respectful environment for everyone. On occasion she will check in with the athletes to see if they are comfortable being approached for a photo or an autograph.
And as it happens, many of the athletes say they enjoy interacting with their fellow yoga enthusiasts. e fact that so many of Turner’s students are regulars seems to help.
“It gets to a point where we can build a comfortable relationship with people,” Bates says. “When you see somebody so much, we become more like regular people to them — which we are. at’s how we want to be treated.”
And it’s these comfortable relationships that make Lotus a safe space.
“ e people who are always there are always nice,” Schrader says. “ e majority of the time, it’s the same people, so you get to be familiar with them. en when we blew up and our names started being more known — the popularity and the stu that comes with being a football player — they already knew who we were. ere were a lot of places in Columbia we couldn’t go.”
Pictured: Sean East
Athletics Leads the Cheer for COMO’s Economic Development
BY GABE HUFFINGTON
Sports tourism is an integral part of the city of Columbia’s economy. Our Parks and Recreation Department continues to emphasize sports and the development of athletic facilities as a key economic driver for our community.
Sporting events contribute to our economy in many ways, with residents and visitors spending money on hotel stays, local restaurants, gas, shopping, and visits to entertainment destinations in Columbia. With the renewal of the 2021 Park Sales Tax by Columbia residents, multiple park projects focused on the development of new sports facilities have continued to move through the planning and construction process. Each of the new facilities provides a dual bene t for the City of Columbia by enhancing sports facilities that can be used by Columbia residents and attracting visitors to the community through sports tourism.
In November 2019, the city dedicated the rst phase of the Columbia Sports Fieldhouse. Located at A. Perry Philips Park, the 46,000 square foot indoor facility includes four hardwood courts, o ce space, a meeting room, concession area, and restrooms. e hardwood courts provide space for youth basketball, adult basketball, youth volleyball, adult volleyball, pickleball, futsal, wrestling, dance, cheer, and table tennis. e venue serves Columbia residents daily as a premier practice facility and has become a major tournament venue for basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and pickleball.
In May 2023, City Council authorized the construction of phase two of the Columbia Sports Fieldhouse. e second phase of the facility will include an additional four hardwood courts, o ce space, restrooms, and a large meeting room. e construction of phase two of the project is currently
underway with an anticipated completion date of March 2025. e completion of the phase two construction project will create a 92,000-square-foot facility that will provide daily space for local athletes and coaches for practices, games, and leagues and allow city sta to attract regional and national indoor sports tournaments to Columbia. e Columbia Sports Fieldhouse has become an ideal location for indoor sports that is now being modeled in other communities throughout Missouri. e development of facilities to support sports tourism in our community continues to occur at Gans Creek Recreation Area as well. e 320-acre park located o East Gans Road became the home of one of the nation’s premier cross-country facilities in 2019. e city partnered with Mizzou Athletics to design and construct the course and supporting facilities. Since the course opened, it has hosted multiple Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) State Cross Country Championships, the 2022 NCAA Cross Country Regional Championship, and the 2021 SEC Cross Country Championships.
is fall, park sta will complete the nal two supporting facilities for the cross country course. e construction of the
Gans Race Headquarters is in progress and will provide 1,900 square feet of indoor climate-controlled space at the course. e facility’s design will allow for multiple uses including race director space, o cial coordination, coach and sta meetings, and race hospitality. Along with this facility, a 15-foot-by-20-foot permanent covered space will be added for race clerking at the course. is small facility will replace the temporary space used for each race and allow for improved technology and communication when preparing athletes to run on the course.
e timing of the completion of these facilities coincides with the city hosting the 2024 NAIA Cross Country National Championships and 2025 NCAA Cross Country National Championships. City sta and Mizzou Athletics had a vision for this facility, and the cross-country course continues to excel as a national running destination and economic driver for the city.
Gabe Hu ngton is the director of Columbia’s Parks and Recreation Department.
Silence and Solitude
Embracing what the Bible has to say about rest.
BY BETH BRAMSTEDT
Afew weeks ago, I texted my husband around lunchtime. e text read, “ is morning was exactly what I needed. Time alone in an empty house. No TV or music, just quiet. I feel so much better!”
e text came after a full week. My head had been feeling heavy and lethargy swept over my body. e rain, followed by hot temperatures, wreaked havoc on my sinuses. e changes in barometric pressure created heaviness behind my eyes and all I desired was to sleep.
We had also experienced the expected death of a family member. While I was not overcome with waves of grief, there was still sadness mixed with relief, arrangements to make, and a celebration of life to coordinate.
I also spent time with my two little granddaughters several days in a row. ey brought so much fun and joy, but also a toll on my body from toting them around and taking care of their needs.
We all carry and process exhaustion in diverse ways.
For me lately, I have carried mine in my head and in my body. And rest came through a morning of silence and solitude.
IS REST A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE?
Absolutely it is. And it takes discipline and maturity. We rst learn about rest from God in Genesis 1-2.
“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and
there was morning—the sixth day. us, the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had nished the work he had been doing; so, on the seventh day he rested from all his work.”
For centuries, followers of God have called this seventh day our sabbath. A day of rest.
For many of us, taking a day of rest seems like a luxury. An impossibility. ere is too much to do, too many people or tasks to take care of, too much responsibility.
Author and Spiritual Director Ruth Haley Barton describes our general state of being like this. “We are like a jar of river water all shaken up. What we need is to sit still long enough that the sediment can settle, and the water can become clear.”
at’s why the practices of silence and solitude are radical, she says. Because they challenge us on every level of our existence. In Western culture, we cannot imagine what it would feel like to enter a time of unproductive being and listening.
at is the counter-cultural aspect of the wisdom of God.
A day of rest gives us what we need to be creative with our life the other six days.
Author Christopher Heuertz writes that sometimes silence can be downright exhausting, but in a good, productive way.
“With practice, come moments of breaking through the internal chaos. I experience the grace of letting go of my insecuri-
ties about not being in control, of my pains and discomforts, of even the new, intriguing thoughts churning through my mind. And then I nd love. Love from God and for God. Love from myself and for myself. Love from others and for others.”
For me, my morning of rest was a chance to refresh and recalibrate. To be reminded of my identity and to reclaim my purpose. It was a chance to step out of the chaos and to-do list and trust God to care for my soul. And he responded as he promised in Matthew 11:28. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
It was exactly what I needed. And so, I am anticipating my next time of silence and solitude. I came upon this question that I long to think about, to investigate, to see what surfaces.
WHAT DOES MY HEART REALLY, TRULY, WANT?
I encourage you to do the same. My prayer is that the process of wrestling with this question in silence and solitude will lead you on an adventure with God that brings you rest.
Beth Bramstedt is the Church Life Pastor at Christian Fellowship.
The Power of Teamwork in Columbia
BY BARBARA BUFFALOE
As I sit down to re ect on the essence of our community, one word comes to mind: Teamwork. e sight of my son’s fth-grade basketball team giving it their all during the district semi- nals brought this concept to life for me. Although they didn’t emerge victorious, their spirit and support for each other was contagious. ese young athletes demonstrated that success is not always measured by the scoreboard, but by the collective e ort and encouragement that each player gave one another.
is experience mirrors the approach we take at City Hall, where the drive for progress and improvement is grounded in collaboration.
In times like ours where it seems divisiveness is the new normal, I have the privilege of serving on the team known as the Columbia City Council. We are a diverse group of individual volunteers elected to represent the interests of our residents. Like state and national politicians, each council member brings unique perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table.
Unlike what you see in most state and national politicians, it’s obvious that we know it’s only through collaboration and a shared commitment to the common good that we can achieve meaningful progress. e Council must work as a team, setting aside personal di erences and political agendas to focus on the needs of our community. Like a team holds practices and studies other teams’ best moves, the City Council meets often with each other and the city sta in work sessions to nd out all the options we have and background knowledge we need to know before going into a regular City Council meeting to vote.
Our teamwork extends beyond the council chambers and into our interactions with city sta . e dedication and hard work of our city employees are the backbone of our community’s success. Whether it’s public works managing our transportation networks,
the parks and recreation team enhancing our parks and trails, or our police department ensuring our safety, it’s a collaborative e ort and I am proud of the work I see them doing.
Just this summer I was witness to the strong teamwork I saw between our employees in the electric utility after severe thunderstorms interrupted service to customers. Alongside sta from public works, they cleared downed trees and other storm debris so that residents could go about their normal day with minimal disruption.
Our community also exempli es teamwork in numerous volunteer projects that make Columbia a better place to live. Take “Cleanup Columbia,” for instance. Every year, hundreds of residents of all ages come together to pick up litter, beautify parks, and enhance public spaces. is citywide event underscores the importance of collective action and the positive impact we can make when we pool our resources and e orts.
Looking ahead, there are many opportunities for us to build on this foundation of teamwork. As we plan for future housing needs, collaborations to address community violence, and opportunities to advocate for Columbia at a regional and federal level, Columbians will have multiple options for becoming a team player on Team Columbia. We must remember that teamwork is not just a buzzword; it is the lifeblood of our city’s success. It’s what makes it possible for us to work together and support one another, even when a loss is on the court.
Let us continue to embody the spirit of collaboration, knowing that together, we can build a thriving, resilient, and inclusive community for everyone.
Barbara Bu aloe currently is serving her rst term in o ce as the mayor of Columbia.
WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW
GARRETT STRODTMAN HEARTLAND HOMES REMODELING & ROOFING
BRENDAN ROST ROST LANDSCAPING
JACLYN ROGERS
CHAMPION OF THE ROOF: SPOTLIGHT ON GARRETT STRODTMAN
By Garrett Strodtman garrett@heartlandhomesmo.com
In the world of sports, we celebrate champions for their dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence. But sometimes, champions emerge off the field, too.
I’m Garrett Strodtman, a local roofing salesman and have earned the title of the best in the industry, bringing a level of passion and professionalism that rivals any sports star.
I’m not just any roofing salesman; I’m a powerhouse in the roofing industry, known for my exceptional customer service, unparalleled knowledge, and a track record that speaks for itself. Much like an elite athlete, I have honed my craft over the years, dedicating countless hours to mastering the intricacies of roofing solutions and building lasting relationships with my clients.
THE COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
My commitment to excellence extends beyond my professional life and into our community. I’m an avid supporter of local teams of any sport; whether its Mizzou, Parks and Recreation, from STL to KC, I just love connecting with people and helping them with their roofing needs. My involvement in community sports allows me to engage with local residents,
GARRETT STRODTMAN
ROOFING SALESMAN
WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW
Garrett is a dedicated roofing and exterior specialist from Hallsville. With years of experience in the industry, Garrett is known for his meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to customer satisfaction. Outside of his professional life, he is an avid outdoorsman who relishes every opportunity to connect with nature — fishing is one of his favorite pastimes. Family is at the heart of Garrett’s world; he loves spending quality time with his loved ones, creating cherished memories, and tries to set the best example of hard work and dedication to anyone he comes into contact with.
573-823-2517
THE PATH TO MASTERY
Before joining Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing, I spent 10 years in the construction industry perfecting my craft. This decade of dedication has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle any roofing challenge with confidence and precision. My experience ensures that every project I undertake is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
YOUR ROOFING CHAMPION
When it comes to protecting your home, trust the expertise we have at Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing. With me at the helm, you can rest assured that your biggest asset is covered. Give me a call today, and experience the peace of mind that comes with working with the best in the industry.
offering both my roofing expertise and support for activities in our community.
DESIGN & CARE OF
FORMAL LANDSCAPES
By Brendan Rost
Find more at rostlandscaping.com
Formal landscapes exude elegance and precision, often resembling a carefully crafted work of art. These meticulously designed outdoor spaces are characterized by a sense of orderliness that creates a sophisticated ambiance. Whether adorning the grounds of stately homes, public institutions, or corporate offices, formal landscapes require thoughtful planning and diligent care to maintain their pristine appearance year-round.
DESIGN
The foundation of a formal landscape lies in its design principles, which emphasize balance, symmetry, and structure.
1. Symmetry: Formal landscapes typically feature symmetrical layouts where one side mirrors the other. This can be achieved through balanced plantings, pathways, or focal points like statues or fountains placed centrally.
2. Geometric Shapes: Straight lines, right angles, and geometric patterns define formal gardens. Rectangular beds, hedges trimmed into precise shapes, and paved pathways contribute to the structured look.
3. Focal Points: A central focal point such as a sculpture, fountain, or topiary often anchors a formal garden. It serves as a visual centerpiece that draws the eye and establishes the garden’s design hierarchy.
4. Plant Selection: Plants are carefully chosen for their ability to maintain shape and structure. Common choices include clipped hedges ( i.e. boxwood or yew), symmetrical trees (i.e. columnar oaks or cypress), and neatly trimmed shrubs.
5. Materials and Surfaces: Paving materials like brick, stone, or gravel are used for paths and patios, enhancing the formal
BRENDAN ROST
ROST LANDSCAPING
WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW
Brendan Rost is a Columbia native and son of Rost Landscaping owners Tim and Toby Rost. He grew up playing at the garden center and nursery and has worked in all divisions of Rost Inc. Brendan received his degree in horticulture and design from MU and now works as a designer in the landscaping division. He thrives on building relationships and creating unique landscapes that complement their space.
aesthetic. Edging materials like low walls or formal hedges define boundaries and maintain clean lines.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Creating a formal landscape is just the beginning; maintaining its immaculate appearance requires ongoing care and attention.
1. Regular Pruning and Trimming: Regular pruning of hedges, shrubs, and topiaries is crucial. This helps maintain the garden’s structured look and prevents overgrowth.
2. Weeding and Mulching: Weed control is essential to keep beds tidy and prevent competition for nutrients. Mulching not only suppresses weeds but also retains moisture and improves soil structure while maintaining the pristine appearance of the landscape.
3. Seasonal Maintenance: Adjust care practices seasonally. In spring, focus on planting and pruning. Summer requires diligent watering and pest control. Fall is ideal for planting bulbs and preparing for winter, while winter calls for protective measures against frost.
4. Path and Patio Maintenance: Keep paths clear of debris and weeds and
repair any damaged paving promptly to maintain a uniform appearance.
Designing and caring for formal landscapes requires a blend of artistry and meticulous upkeep. By adhering to design principles of symmetry, geometric precision, and strategic plant selection, and by implementing thorough maintenance practices, these gardens can uphold their elegant allure throughout the seasons. Whether in a residential estate, public park, or corporate setting, a well-maintained formal landscape serves as a testament to timeless beauty and refined craftsmanship.
KEEP ISSUES AT BAY WITH ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
By Jaclyn Rogers
Find more at aipaintingplus.com
Let’s see now … Your home’s exterior has recently received a fresh coat of paint or your interior walls have also been refreshed (or need to be). Chances are those projects cost you time or money — or both. You don’t want to paint it all again anytime soon, so what can you do to help your exterior and interior finishes last longer?
We’re glad you asked!
If your home’s exterior has recently received a fresh coat of paint, chances are it either cost you time, money, or both! The last thing you want to think about is having to paint it all over again anytime soon. While you can’t make anything last forever, following a few general maintenance tips can significantly extend the life of your exterior paint.
EXTERIOR SURFACES
Regular cleaning.
Keeping your painted exterior surfaces clean is crucial for a lasting look and protected home. Establish a routine of regularly scrubbing and washing easy-toget-to areas to prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and other debris. It may help to use a gentle cleanser and a soft brush to avoid damaging the paint. The more consistent you are the less effort it will take to get the surface clean.
Annual power washing.
Power washing is one of the most important maintenance tasks for your newly painted exterior. Power washing is a highly effective method of removing dirt, mold, mildew, and pollutants that can
accumulate over time. Consider hiring a professional power washing service to make sure the job gets done right!
Repair damage.
Despite your best efforts, damage may occur on your painted exterior surfaces over time. Peeling, cracking, or bubbling paint are common issues that require attention. It is crucial to address these problems promptly to prevent further deterioration. By addressing and repairing damages promptly, you can maintain the integrity and appearance of your painted surfaces.
INTERIOR SURFACES
Dusting your newly painted walls. As part of your regular cleaning schedule — at least monthly — run a dry cloth or feather duster over the surface of your walls, paying extra attention to corners. Don’t forget the ceiling! Using a longhandled sweeper, or even a dust brush attachment on your vacuum makes this job much easier.
Washing your newly painted walls. Especially in high-traffic areas, you’ll want to wash your painted surfaces periodically
WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW
Jaclyn Rogers, sales representative at Ai Painting Plus, sees paint as more valuable than simply being an accent in a home. “We are painting joy into people’s homes,” she says. Jaclyn is certified as a Psychological Color Expert, which means she has demonstrated mastery in specifying interior paint in residential applications.
(every six months is recommended). Avoid any cleaners containing ammonia or abrasives as these can diminish the integrity of your paint.
Warm, mild soapy water is all you need to wash your walls. Apply with a damp (not wet) sponge or cloth in a gentle circular motion. Once cleaning is complete, simply rinse the wall with a clean, damp cloth. The last step is to either use a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess water left over from rinsing — or open a window to help your walls air-dry!
Spot-cleaning your newly painted walls. Mix a baking soda and water paste (we recommend ½ of baking soda and a ¼ cup of water) and gently rub over the affected area to remove minor marks and stains. Then, wipe away the paste with a damp cloth or sponge. Do this as needed.
Next step?
Take a load off and enjoy your space! Even though the exterior surfaces and interior walls do require a bit of upkeep from the hustle and bustle, for now, take a step back and enjoy your freshly painted interior. It does look fantastic!
M CHI STRIKES
Mochi Mochi brings a new sweet treat to Columbia.
BY LYDIA GRAVES
The idea of burning out had been chirped in my ear so frequently that I needed a little treat — after all, I’d earned it — to erase at least temporarily the burden of an excessive workload and lack of inspiration.
Mochi Mochi had caught my attention earlier that week. e logo is hard to forget: a white and yellow chicken grinning blissfully within the cushiony blanket of a pink mochi donut. e promise of a sweet, u y embrace lured me as if one of the cartoon characters following a bright, sparkly scent.
Behind the curtain of inspiration is Ruan Fang, Vicky Ni, and Lin Qiu. Ruan Fang, rst o , is recognized in the team as a hard worker. In meetings, she often speaks for the customer, asking the group questions and providing insightful thoughts for improvement. She does not speak uent English but explores her love of cooking during shifts by preparing dishes enfolding bursts of avor.
Within the doors, I was rewarded for following the incentive. e adorned pink walls felt like an adorable utopia. Sweet notes of pastries and milk tea politely greeted my senses. Ordering was contact free, and my name was called quickly for pickup from the counter. I sat down to revel in the atmosphere and experience the pillowy goodness of the donut wrapped up in front of me.
Creative Directors
at alluring logo, I later found out, was drawn by one of the owner’s daughters. Vicky Ni liked the idea of giving her children an opportunity to exercise her creative freedom. And somehow this creative energy and sentiment became an unspoken motto. From the food and the atmosphere to the story behind it all, inspiration strikes.
Vicky Ni is originally from a city in southern China but moved to Columbia seventeen years ago. She is a mom, and often provides the same knowledge and guidance she had as a child.
“My parents have been running Chinese restaurants since they came to Columbia, and they have been in business for more than thirty years. My experience comes from their teachings,” Vicky Ni notes.
Her parents are a resonating culinary teacher for Vicky Ni, but Lin Qiu is a foodie who shared the passion for creation and baking. Lin Qiu, deemed as a culinary artist within the group, brought a plethora of ideas to the team to try and experiment with.
With each of their talents and concepts, the team formed, purchasing what would soon become Columbia, Missouri’s home for the sought after mochi donuts.
The Pitch
It all began because of the sweet, chewy donuts. On a trip to Texas in 2021, Vicky Ni rst bit into this scrumptious pastry. e big city sounds shut o as she was invited in by the u y texture and stimulating avor. She fell in love. at passion would soon become heartbreak upon returning to Columbia. She couldn’t nd the sweet anywhere in town. She searched and searched, but alas, she couldn’t nd anything like it. at was until she met Lin Qiu.
After Vicky Ni had the opportunity to try Lin Qiu’s homemade mochi donuts, they both knew, with each bite, there was a store concept waiting to be batched up into existence.
It didn’t take long before the business shifted into early stages of planning. e team decided to keep everything fairly simple. None of the food was meant to be too complicated. Creative and avor should speak for itself, of course. ey brainstormed staple food along with drinks, and the star desserts. A takeout-modeled restaurant was in their sights. e idea of simple, although downplayed, may have sprouted from Vicky Ni’s childhood memories. Simplicity was always the key at dinner — even large events and holidays. Just because it was straightforward and uncomplicated never meant it lacked innovation with a punch of avor; it was quite the contrary.
Vicky Ni recalls, “My favorite memory is when I was a kid. My parents cooked a lot of delicious and rich dishes during the Chinese New Year. I’m amazed at how many of them can make at least twenty di erent dishes with the same ingredients. And they don’t have to spend a lot of time [doing prep work before] cooking.”
ey were visionaries, and the three women of Mochi Mochi were following close behind in those footsteps. e team
Open
prepared for the grand opening of Mochi Mochi for half a year. e nal touch was the logo. rough many logo concepts, they continued to be dissatis ed. e rst logo they liked happened to be the special, alluring emblem overlooking Bernadette Drive today — a design created and painted by Vicky Ni’s two daughters that the team fancied entirely.
After that, everything was nalized and the restaurant opened in September 2023.
Chef-d’oeuvre
ere are four main categories on the menu. First, with delicious food, there
must be a delightful drink. Mochi Mochi has it all from co ee to the sweeter bubble tea, fruit tea, and slush. e team recommends and boasts the strawberry milk tea and the brown sugar milk team. e Korean fried chicken — both bone-in and boneless — is the perfect pairing. With ingredients imported directly from South Korea, it is an authentic, lling, and tender meal with six vast avor pro les to choose from.
Looking for something light? Mochi Mochi o ers a variety of sushi, including a number of vegetarian options. And of course, the namesake of the brand, Mochi Mochi, creates a total of twelve avors of mochi donut along with mochi balls — think Munchkins (but better) — and donut ice cream. e current fan-favorites are the mango, strawberry, cookies and cream, and taro.
First biting into one of the mochi donuts transported me. e long day, the hard hours of my week, and all the impending projects faded away. What was left was the moist, u y bite of sweet black sesame with a luscious slurp of brown sugar. Inspiration struck at that moment. A mouthful of memorable triumph.
“I hope that everyone can put forward ideas and opinions,” Vicky Ni voices. e company supports collaboration, improvements, and original ideas. ey welcome any suggestions and new creativity at hand. e dream is to open up food chains with new and original avors at each. Each location would be modeled after the original, but each would serve a different kind of food; a clever rendition of the starting point. It would develop from there. ey’re starting with Mochi Mochi and planning to map it out from there.
Mochi Mochi is unlike any other experience — especially in Columbia. It is a celebration of culture, family, and creativity. It’s sweet and u y, delivering its promise and so much more. Somehow the adorably adorned restaurant becomes a sanctuary where negative energy melts away with the opening of the door. e bells jingle with your entrance.
MOCHI MOCHI
2507 Bernadette Drive
Sunday – Thursday: 10am - 8:30pm Friday & Saturday: 10am - 9pm mochimochicolumbia.com
Buffalo Turds
aka Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapenos
BY HOSS KOETTING
My, how things have changed. I can remember my rst trip to Faurot Field. It was 1976, and a good friend’s dad was a high school coach. In the summer, he ran a sports camp, and had an old school bus that he used to shuttle the attendees around. e bus was christened “Coach’s Coach,” and doubled as an MU Tiger football game shuttle from his home in suburban St. Louis in the fall.
I was fortunate enough to be invited for one of the road trips, and it was truly an eye-opening experience. How cool to hang out at a real college stadium, watching Big 8 college football, back when the Tigers had the ability to be giant killers and there was no seating in the south end of the stadium. I remember also the phenomenon of tailgating. It wasn’t, however, as it is today. It was just as the name implies — it happened on a tailgate. You know, the back end of the family hauler of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s — the station wagons, the ones with the vinyl wood grain side panels, that had engines big enough to pull a train. You could pack in ten people by laying on the back deck. Seat belts optional!
Oh well, we survived, and so did the Tigers, through those many ensuing poor seasons to recently regain their national prominence.
Anyway, back to tailgating, it was certainly in a rudimentary form back then. ere were no major productions. Grills were rare, and the marketing companies hadn’t capitalized on all of the gizmos and knick-knacks that we fans are wont to purchase. It was my recollection that most tailgates consisted of “cold cut” sandwiches on Wonder Bread, maybe some mayo or yellow mustard. Some of the fancier ones may have had some cold fried chicken, or maybe some “hors d’oeuvres” such as baloney roll-ups. But the behemoth Suburbans and Excursions were not in existence to cart around half of the kitchen to prepare the sumptuous feasts of today.
Now, many fans begin the pilgrimage at the crack of dawn to stake out their spot for the grill and pop-up tent, and as an excuse to pop a top of a cold and frosty long before it is generally considered socially acceptable. But what to do for those poor unfortunates who don’t have the time, resources, or wherewithal to pull o such an extravaganza? ere’s always the option to revert to the cold cut sandwiches, but that’s a last resort. If the meat you buy has a sheen to it, if it can be sliced paper thin and has an elastic texture, it’s not really meat, but a meat product. If your salami isn’t redolent with garlic, it’s not really salami. If your cheese comes pre-wrapped, slice by slice, it ain’t cheese.
And if your bread’s crust doesn’t have any texture, it belongs in a school lunch! If you want something to make your taste buds happy, and impress your guests, try Hoss’s Bu alo Turds!
Jim “Hoss” Koetting is a retired restaurateur/chef who enjoys gardening, good food, good bourbon, and good friends.
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapenos
ere’s no rhyme or reason for how many to prepare. It depends on the crowd and your patience in making them!
INGREDIENTS
• Large fresh jalapeno peppers
• Good country cured, smoked bacon
• A simple lling mix is:
• ½ shredded Vermont cheddar
• ½ pulled smoked pork
But, you can use crabmeat, olives, onions, cream cheese, sausage, — whatever sounds good!
• Toothpicks
DIRECTIONS
• Using rubber gloves, cut the peppers in half horizontally, leaving the stem on. Seed with a spoon.
• Mold lling and stu each half, mounding a little bit.
• Wrap with a slice of par-cooked bacon, fastening with a toothpick.
• Preferably, smoke over low heat for 3045 minutes, then crisp under broiler, or just cook in 400-degree oven 15 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
Day in the (Culinary) Life
Alan Petersen keeps Mizzou athletes fueled.
COMO Magazine’s ‘Day in the Life’ series features Columbia pros (and amateurs) who do their part to keep the globe spinning and make life fuller for the rest of us.
ALAN PETERSEN is the director of Culinary Performance Services for the University of Missouri Athletics Department. He recently tracked a day in his work and home life.
Please give us a description of your responsibilities.
I oversee two dining locations — one at Memorial Stadium in the South End Zone and the second in the Missouri Athletic Training Complex (MATC). We ensure our athletes have the choices available to meet their nutritional needs, as well as provide basic culinary training to athletes. We operate fall camp meals
for football, soccer, volleyball and cross country, and in January, winter camp meals for gymnastics, men’s and women’s basketball, wrestling, softball, swim/dive, and track. I’m also involved with football recruiting meals and department events, and oversee over a dozen “fueling stations” — grab and go areas where teams practice, to provide nutritional snacks during practice as well as for home and away competitions.
“Director of Culinary Performance Services” sounds, well, kind of tasty. Did you always have an interest in food and food service?
Yes, I have, I’m in my thirtieth year at MU. Prior to that I did try other career paths but came back to culinary. Food is a language we all speak and there’s nothing better than being around the table for a meal with family and friends.
What are your favorite dishes to prepare?
I used to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, but as my career progressed, I now oversee the chefs that do that work. I spend a lot of time in planning, logistics, and budget/forecasting future food costs. My favorite dish is Aebleskiver, a Danish breakfast “bread;” it’s something I grew up with.
What time does your day start? What’s your morning, pre-work routine?
During the fall camp period (now), my alarm goes o at 3:40 a.m. First thing is I review my calendar and the priorities of the day, reply to any messages that came in overnight. en get ready to go (usually making a cold brew co ee for the drive). I leave for work by 4:40am.
How soon do you get to the actual food? Or is your position more administrative?
It is more administrative now, teaching and mentoring our chefs and sta so that they can one day move up in their careers. Production starts by 5 a.m. e start of my workday is quite variable; it’s whenever I am needed. It can be as early at 4:30 a.m. and as late as 8 a.m.
How much work goes into making sure MU athletes are getting nutritionally balanced food/meals?
It is a lot of planning. Not only menus, but how it’s produced, allergens, dietary preferences all come into play. To aid in planning we have a “Roadmap” of nutritional guidelines then write menus that t that system and we need to nd options that appeal to as many student athletes as possible. I also spend a lot of time sourcing the right ingredients. Individual nutritional education is handled by our registered dietitians, but we educate on how to cook, what di erent foods can do for you, where your food comes from, and get them to try new things.
How much does your position involve regular emails and meetings?
If it’s important, let’s talk now. If it can wait, it’s an email. at avoids long meetings taking us out of the operation.
THIS is non-negotiable. You won’t be distracted from doing THIS. What is THIS?
• Orders: they all have set cut o days/times; you miss it by one minute, you don’t get your order.
• Opening for a meal: if we open at 7 a.m., there is no exception. Be open at 7 a.m., not 7:01a.m. Better early than on time!
• Payroll: no one works for free. It’s due at 5 p.m. every other Tuesday.
What attracted you to working at MU and for the athletic department?
Being a sports fan and involved with sports it was a great way to combine several passions into a career. Now both our daughters have grown up around MU athletics, were MU students, and attend games regularly with us. We are Tigers for life.
If you could tell your younger self what you wish you had known or knew to look out for, what would that be?
We work hard and have long hours, but I would tell myself, “Sometimes stop. Don’t let life pass you by.”
So what time is lunch?
What are you having?
Today it’s 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (during the semester it’s 11 to 2).
Dumplings with dill butter, roasted potatoes and carrots, peas, garlic green beans, cucumber salad, kielbasa and sauerkraut, schnitzel with mustard cream sauce, grilled steak, mushroom pasta (vegan), grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, salad bar, fruit and yogurt bar, deli/panini station, and a skillet station where they can make their own stir fry or other dishes.
What do your friends not understand about what you do?
Our work schedule. It’s dictated by the sports schedule that year and I can’t always get away when everyone else can. e sheer volume of food consumed.
What time is your workday finished?
I could be called anytime day or night so even if I’m o , I may still need to address something for my department or help someone else. As far as leaving the sports park, whenever I have accomplished all I have to. Rarely is there a set time. If there are items I can do at home, in the evening I will, so I can be with family while nishing my day.
What’s for supper/ dinner?
Who will you share that meal with?
At home it’s often simple and with both of my girls out of the house, it’s my wife and me.
What do you do to unwind in the evening and what time is lights out?
Working around our property/lake (we live west of town on ten acres), watching a game (in person or at home), shing, spending time with family. Bedtime is relative, as early at 10 p.m. as late as 1 a.m., depending on if I took work home or if I open the next day.
A Slam Dunk for Faith and Fun
At Upward Sports, Jesus is the real M.V.P.
BY KELSEY WINKELJOHN
There’s an electric tension in the air — a mix of anticipation and the energy of the players on the court. e audience is on the edge of their seats, their collective breath held, and the only sounds are the rhythmic “thud” of the basketball and the squeak of sneakers. As the most skilled player steps onto the court, excitement ripples through the crowd. His talent is undeniable, but what he does next surprises everyone.
Instead of taking the shot himself, he passes the ball to his teammate, a younger, much shorter girl who’s never had the chance. With a gesture, he holds his other teammates back, urging them to give her an opportunity. Time seems to slow down as the ball arcs through the air. When the game ends, the coaches award the boy a “Most Christ-like” star for his sel essness and encouragement.
at’s just one example of what Upward Sports embodies.
WHAT IS UPWARD SPORTS?
Upward Sports, a nonpro t founded in 1995 in South Carolina, aims to promote the discovery of Jesus and share the gospel through sports. e mission has guided the program’s growth over the past three decades, expanding to 5,000
church partners, 7,000,000+ children playing, and 45,000 sports experiences, according to its website.
In Columbia, the Upward Sports include basketball, cheerleading, ag football, and soccer, all provided at various churches of di erent denominations. e beauty of Upward Sports is that it welcomes players from all backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity that is unique.
Basketball is among the most popular programs in Columbia, though only two locations in the immediate area o er it: Forum Christian Church (FCC) and Midway Heights Baptist Church (MHBC). MHBC also o ers a coinciding cheerleading program, which other churches around the area tend to provide during ag football season.
AN INSIDE LOOK
Lauren Wul , a former participant in the Upward Sports program, looks back fondly on her time there as a period of personal growth and positive experiences — a time for making friends and learning the fundamentals of her faith. Nearly two decades later, she’s assumed the position of basketball league director at MHBC.
“When I was in Upward, all of my friends were church friends, and I liked having that avenue,” Wul says. “I started it at my church because I have two kids, and when my daughter was born, I wanted to grow our children’s ministry the best way I could think of.”
MHBC’s program is a gleaming example of how Upward Sports merges faith and sports in an enjoyable and easily understood way. Designed for children from kindergarten to sixth grade, MHBC accomplishes that by incorporating faith into several aspects of the game. Each practice includes a ten-minute period where coaches read Bible verses, and games feature an opening prayer and halftime testimonies by church members. is approach ensures that children not only develop their sports skills but also deepen their faith, creating a well-rounded and holistic experience.
Moreover, the program highlights how sports skills can be related to Biblical teachings. For instance, players
might learn how to break down the concept of sportsmanship into aspects of humility, respect, integrity, and forgiveness — which Jesus taught.
Aside from teaching elements of faith, Upward Sports fosters a sense of community through its inclusivity. Firstly, Upward Sports has no try-out system. All who sign up during registration (though spots are limited) can play, including children who might need more experience, want to learn a new skill, or want to get out of their comfort zone. Each child also receives roughly the same playing time, regardless of skill level, to ensure everyone gets a chance to shine — something most competitive sports don’t practice.
Additionally, Wul explains how competitive sports around the area can quickly become expensive for the average family; that’s why MHBC strives to keep prices fair so that all families can participate regardless of income.
“With our program, we try to keep the pricing reasonable,” she expresses. “We also have church members [for whom] we do sponsorships. It’s a rst come, rst serve basis, and for the last two years, we’ve had a couple families that, if they can’t a ord to play, our church will sponsor them so they can still play.”
THE GROWING DEMAND: HOW YOU CAN HELP
Due to these unique and desirable features and limited availability in the locality, Upward basketball is a highly sought-after program in Columbia, especially among younger children who tend to have fewer opportunities to participate in sports. Despite the substantial support from FCC and MHBC, they still need help to accommodate all the interested players.
FCC began hosting Upward Sports basketball in 2020, and even then, highlighted the program’s limited availability in its rst public announcement: “Starting in January 2020, Upward Basketball will be a new ministry at Forum. e program, previously hosted by Calvary Baptist Church, will be integrated into our Sports Ministry. Spots will ll up fast, so [we] encourage you to get in early.”
UPWARD SPORTS
FOUNDED: 1995
MISSION: Promoting the discovery of Jesus through sports.
Founded out of a church in Spartanburg, South Carolina, founder Caz McCaslin had a passion for sports and a deep desire to reach his community. He created a sports experience that met the unmet needs of children and their families, focused on the sports experience and sharing the love of Jesus Christ. This vision for one community quickly grew into a team of individuals committed to supporting churches everywhere to maximize their unique resources and personalities to serve and meet the needs of their communities.
Today, there are over 2,000 Upward Sports experiences across the U.S. serving hundreds of thousands of young athletes playing basketball, soccer, cheerleading, volleyball, flag football, baseball and softball. What began as a local, recreational basketball league focused on reaching the surrounding community with the message of Jesus Christ has grown into a nationwide movement helping churches use sports to engage their local communities with
Source: upward.org
Wul estimates that FCC has 750 basketball players and says that the registration lls up “within minutes of opening.”
ough much smaller in size, MHBC has grown over the past three years since its establishment, doubling in numbers between years one and two. At the same time, they’ve calculated their current capacity at 160 kids, with the cheer program having no absolute cap.
Wul ’s ultimate goal for MHBC’s basketball program is to continue growing so that more children in Columbia can participate in creating a community with their peers. However, increasing bleacher space and raising awareness about volunteering opportunities would be a prerequisite to achieving this.
Currently, most of MHBC’s volunteers are just a handful of church members and parents, which reduces the number of players that can join. Wul believes that bringing in more volunteers would signi cantly contribute to the growth of their basketball program and encourages anyone who believes in Upward Sports’ mission to consider volunteering.
“If there’s anything that gets across in this story,” Wul notes, “we would accept any volunteers who want to come — referees, coaches, assistant coaches, anything like that. We need adults in the building to help all the kids.”
You can learn more about Upward Sports experiences and various volunteering opportunities on the Upward Sports website or by contacting participating churches.
LOCAL UPWARD SPORTS
LOCATIONS: Forum Christian Church 3900 Forum Blvd 573-443-3900
upward@forumchristian.org
Midway Heights Baptist Church 6801 W Rollingwood Blvd 573-445-3622
upwardsports.mhbc@gmail.com
SKATE THE LINE
How CoMo Roller Derby went from punk-rock punishers to four-wheeled philanthropists.
BY CAROLINE DOHACK | PHOTOS BY KEN MITCHELL
In the beginning, they were the Destruction Junction Derby Dames, a rough ‘n’ tumble assemblage of ass-kickers dressed in shnets and facepaint. ey later became known as the CoMo Derby Dames and skated under that banner until 2018, when they rebranded to reect the league’s gender diversity.
But these days, CoMo Roller Derby has a softer side. Oh, the traveling team still gives as good as it gets on the track, but its focus is more on community building and charitable giving than it is bruising and brawling.
Flipping the Script
According to the National Museum of Roller Skating, roller derby dates back to the mid-1930s, when Chicago-based event promoter Leo Seltzer dared to dazzle Depression-era crowds with something a smidge more stirring than the walkathon. e rst roller derbies were endurance races during which coed duos tag-teamed 57,000 laps — about 3,000 miles — around a at track.
To zhuzh up the action, Seltzer and sportswriter Damon Runyon drafted new rules to encourage contact between the skaters. Over the next several decades, it became something like professional wrestling. ere were costumes. ere were characters. ere were storylines and subplots. It was fun, but it was fake. en came a woman-led revival in the early 2000s. ese aughtiesera bouts were scrappy, do-it-yourself endeavors. e skaters put on a show, but they were in it to win it — this time for real.
Jennifer Bean, aka dethblök, has been with CoMo Roller Derby since it got o the ground in 2007.
“ e rst practice was on a ursday and I was there,” she says. “Since then I’ve gained a group of friends I didn’t know I needed. I have de nitely injured myself more in the past seventeen seasons than I would have had I not, but there’s a very famous skater named Bonnie D.Stroier, and she’s credited with saying, ‘Roller derby wrecked my body but saved my soul.’”
How can an activity oft-associated with violence o er salvation? ere’s been a bit of an evolution over the years. ese days, it’s more about sport than spectacle. e skaters still have their noms de guerre, but they’re more likely to don athletic shorts and a jersey than a miniskirt and deconstructed tank.
Team portraits taken by Sam Surgener
“Most of us don’t wear shnets anymore because if you take a fall, it will embed the shnets in your skin,” dethblök says. “We call it rink rash.”
Mesch ‘er Up, née Kelsey Mescher, says the early campiness of it all was born of necessity, but it doesn’t necessarily serve the sport anymore.
“ ere had to be a reason girls were hitting each other on skates, there had to be a bit or a storyline,” Mesch ‘er Up says. “But the decade since I left graduate school, there was the #MeToo movement,
the growth of women in sports, the Caitlin Clark e ect — it’s more comfortable to own that we play sports.”
It’s not just attitudes toward women’s sports that have changed. dethblök says the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, or WFTDA, has introduced new rules over the past decade that create a safer environment for athletes.
For example, when dethblök started in 2007, the rules stated that a jam, or point-scoring opportunity, started on one whistle to release the blockers — a defen-
sive pack of four skaters — followed by another whistle to release the jammers — the speedy skaters who score points by lapping the other team’s blockers.
“You have a few cars that are going slow and then you have those cars that are going fast coming up behind you. It was designed for impact,” dethblök says. “We were getting spine injuries, concussions, whiplash. Now, the jam starts on one whistle and everyone goes.”
Today, everyone starts on the same whistle. ese new rules don’t just protect players, but also shift the game play to emphasize athleticism versus pure aggression.
A Track of Their Own
One of the biggest challenges CoMo Roller Derby has faced has been a lack of home venue. Currently, the league hosts bouts at the Bob Lemone Building at the Hallsville Fairgrounds.
“We love the Hallsville Community Development Association,” Vanna WipeOut says. “ ey are very gracious, and we are very grateful for how welcoming they have been of our people and our sport.”
Still, the league would like to be in Columbia, where most of its skaters and fanbase live.
Vanna WipeOut knows they have the potential to draw big crowds. In 2015, the league was able to raise $16,000 — surpassing its goal of $10,000 — to build a oor at the Columbia Canine Sports Center. Its comeback bout brought in a 600-person crowd.
Alas, the space didn’t meet re codes for crowds that size, so it was back to the drawing board. But the league was undeterred. It had its proof of concept.
“We knew if we got back to COMO, we could bring fans back,” Vanna WipeOut says.
For the past couple of years, the league has been working with Columbia Parks and Recreation to identify a solution. Members presented one-page testimonies about the potential economic impact of hosting bouts in Columbia.
“People eat and stay in hotel rooms and do all the things that basketball teams and volleyball teams do,” Vanna WipeOut says.
e work has paid o . Current plans for the Sapp Building, which will be built at the Northeast Regional Park, include a dedicated track for roller derby.
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course Classics
Look your best the next time you hit the green with fashion finds from Columbia Country Club’s pro shop.
PHOTOS BY KEITH BORGMEYER
On the course
Carter Arey wears Anderson Ord golf polo and chamber short, Jordan 1
Devin Kaufman wears
with a performance golf polo and shoes, and a Lululemon
Retro
Low golf shoes in midnight navy, and a hat by Titleist.
Laura Rowe Arey’s top and skirt are Lululemon with shoes that match Carter’s, and a hat by Titleist.
Adidas
highrise pleated skirt.
Inside the club Laura wears an Adidas golf dress with Jordan 1 Retro Low golf shoes in midnight navy.
Carter is wearing an Anderson Ord golf polo and chamber short, with Nike shoes that match Laura’s, and a hat by Titleist.
Devin is wearing a Columbia Country Club (CCC) embroidered Greg Norman shirt and a Callaway jacket with the CCC logo as well. Her skirt is by G/FOREm, and Adidas shoes.
All brands are available at the CCC Pro Shop in-stock or via
Plans for an ice rink on ice for now.
BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN
Years ago, when the Washington Park Ice Arena in Je erson City o ered a free opportunity for kids to lace up some ice skates and get on the ice, Sam Fleury and his wife Ann took their children, 5-year-old Ava and 3-yearold William, to try it out. With that rst chance to glide across the ice, they were instantly hooked. Eleven years later, Ava, now 16, and William, now 14, have both found success on the ice, competing both individually and as a pair.
As the father of competitive skaters who are on the ice multiple times each week, Fleury knows that ice time is at a premium. Between public skating sessions, gure skating, hockey, speed skating, synchronized skating, an adaptive skating program, lessons and camps, Fleury says the Washington Park rink is “busy all day every day.” Add in a weekend hockey tournament or two that closes the ice for other activities, and the need for additional sheets of ice in mid-Missouri ampli es.
Despite being home to the championship Mizzou Club Hockey team and competitive skaters, Columbia itself does not have an ice-skating rink. But the lack of ice facility does not equate to a lack of interest in a facility by both the city and Columbia residents.
“ e possibility of having an ice rink in Columbia could be a game-changer for us,” Fleury says. “If there was a rink in Columbia, it would ease the burden of nding ice time, and would be a huge help to our local skaters.”
“We are often asked about key facilities that are absent from the Columbia Parks and Recreation inventory of recreation facilities. An ice rink comes up often as a discussion topic. We know that it would be a popular amenity for our citizens and visitors to Columbia.”
AN ONGOING CONVERSATION
ere is a long history related to the planning and funding of an ice rink in Columbia, says Gabe Hu ngton, Columbia Parks and Recreation director.
“Columbia has only had one ice rink in operation and it closed in 1981,” Hu ngton says. “Since that time, the city has looked at multiple options related to the funding, construction, and long-term operations of an ice rink.”
ough there have been various proposals over the years, both from the city and from private funders, a new ice rink has not become a reality in Columbia.
rough the city’s research, it learned that bringing an ice rink to Columbia could be cost prohibitive.
“ e biggest challenges related to the addition of an ice rink in Columbia relates to the cost of construction and funding for long-term facility operations,” Hu ngton says.
“ e cost of an ice rink in 2024 could range from $8 million up to $30 million depending on the design of the facility, available site infrastructure, and desired amenities in the facility. In order to construct a facility such as an ice rink, the city would need broad citizen support and long-termnancial support for this particular facility due to operating expenses and expected revenues.”
THE ROAD TO ICE
While the city is interested in the possibility of constructing a local ice rink, Hu ngton explains, there is much due diligence that has to precede construction.
“Our rst step to determine if an ice rink in our community could become a reality is to do a feasibility study,” he says. “ is would allow us to look at all aspects of a project of this magnitude. e study would provide us with information related to the cost of construction, sta ng plan, operational costs, analysis of available space for construction, and community support.”
e results of a feasibility study would be presented to the City Council, which would then determine how the construction of an ice rink ts with other priorities for Parks and Recreation facilities in the community.
Hu ngton says the city also needs to consider the needs and desires of Columbia’s residents.
“We would also want to add ice rink questions to our next parks and recreation citizen survey to gauge current interest for an ice rink,” he says.
— GABE HUFFINGTON , Columbia Parks and Recreation director
e last Parks and Recreation Citizen Survey was conducted in 2015. At that time, the survey concluded that 23 percent of households in Columbia indicated a need for ice skating facilities, and 42 percent of households indicated support for a permanent ice-skating facility and for a seasonal ice-skating facility. e same survey revealed that 17 percent of households indicated they were willing to fund a permanent indoor ice-skating facility with revenues from the 1/8-cent park sales tax, while 9 percent of households indicated they were willing to fund a seasonal, outdoor skating facility with revenue from the same sales tax.
Should the city determine that an ice rink has ample community support and aligns with priorities for recreational facilities in
the city, discussions related to how a project of this scope is funded and the timeline for construction will then follow, Hu ngton says.
“For example, would this require a ballot decision by our citizens to provide funding or require the city to enter into a public/private partnership for the facility?” Hu ngton notes. “We would also have to weigh the construction of this facility versus other parks and recreation projects such as an outdoor synthetic turf sports complex, indoor swimming facility, or the construction of an additional community center.”
e discussion about cost doesn’t end with nding the funds for construction.
“We would also need to have extensive conversations with City Council and citizens related to facility expenses, expected revenues, and the pricing related to the facility,” Hu ngton says. “We do not have the ability to subsidize this type of facility and would need to make sure revenues can match expenses.”
FROZEN ON THE WISH LIST
Hu ngton says Parks and Recreation has heard the citizens who are interested in bringing an ice rink to Columbia, and the department itself shares that interest, should it prove to be nancially feasible and sustainable.
“We are often asked about key facilities that are absent from the Columbia Parks and Recreation inventory of recreation facilities. An ice rink comes up often as a discussion topic,” he adds. “We know that it would be a popular amenity for our citizens and visitors to Columbia.”
He said the department seeks to meet citizen needs through parks, trails and recreation facilities, adding that an ice rink is “requested periodically” by citizens and a facility that would be “a key attraction for the city.”
While the construction of an ice rink is not currently on the agenda, the city remains open to exploring the idea, and it will continue to solicit feedback and gauge community interest.
“We will continue to look at the addition of an ice rink as a recreation facility, funding sources, and potential community partners,” Hu ngton says. He expects that an ice rink will be a key discussion item in public input for updating the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan in 2027.
HOLDING OUT HOPE
While the ice initially sparked Ava and William’s interest, Sam Fleury says gure skating has become a family passion. Ann has committed herself to shuttling the kids to and from the rink for practice, and Fleury currently serves as the president of the gure skating club at Washington Park. As someone immersed in the world of gure skating, Fleury says he is especially excited about the prospect of an ice rink in Columbia, because he has seen the boost other cities get from hosting skating competitions.
“We’ve traveled to Chicago, Minneapolis, and St. Louis for di erent events, and there are great opportunities to bring skaters in from around the world if there is ice available,” Fleury says. “Having an ice arena in Columbia would give skaters another chance to practice their trade and allow Columbia to host large scale events, bringing great revenue opportunities for local businesses.”
A City in Motion
Something for every sports-crazed Columbian.
BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN
It’s hard to miss the fact that Mizzou has a football team, but the truth is that Columbians of all ages and skill levels are ocking to elds, courts, gyms, and other athletic facilities around the city, day and night, to play and compete in a wide variety of sports. While there are plenty of opportunities to play sports like softball, basketball and tennis, the range of sporting options extends much wider, and the options for athletic competition are plentiful.
WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
Mizzou’s wheelchair basketball team debuted during the 2005-2006 season, and today represents the University of Missouri in the Central Intercollegiate Division of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. Head coach Ron Lykins, a former head coach for Team USA who coached both the men’s and women’s wheelchair basketball teams to consecutive gold medals, says that those new to the sport often think the game is slow, with not much action.
“First time spectators are amazed at the speed, skill, and athleticism of the players,” Lykins says. “ ey realize the game is fastpaced and exciting. After a short time, new spectators realize it is just basketball.”
While the team has enjoyed success during competition in the NWBA, its players and coaches have also found success outside of Columbia, on both national and international stages.
“We have had players compete on their national team from Australia, Canada and the United States,” Lykins says. One current player and one recent graduate will be competing for Canada at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Mizzou coach Scott Meyer is an assistant coach for the USA Men’s Team that will compete at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
Lykins also coaches a Mizzou wheelchair basketball camp, open to athletes ages 12 through 19 with a permanent disability of a lower extremity.
All Mizzou wheelchair basketball games have free admission.
COLUMBIA RUGBY F.C.
Founded in 1980, the Columbia Rugby Football Club o ers opportunities for athletes of all ages to learn and play rugby.
“We o er a K through eighth grade camp each summer to teach kids the basics of rugby through Columbia’s Parks and Recreation department,” says Columbia Rugby F.C. President Alex Antal. “We recently relaunched our high school boy’s and girl’s teams, which practice twice a week in-season and compete against other high school teams around the state.”
Columbia Rugby F.C. also has an adult men’s team for anyone 18 or older, which has competitive seasons in the fall, spring, and summer against teams from around Missouri and neighboring states. ere is also a local adult women’s rugby club called the Black Sheep Women’s Rugby Club that practices weekly and play rugby games against other women's teams.
With a current roster between 30 and 40 players, Antal says social events are a
big part of the sport, and the rugby community quickly becomes small as athletes mingle and interact.
“One tradition rugby teams have is after each game the home team hosts the visiting team for a social,” Antal says. “ is allows players from both teams to get to know each other better and build community outside of our respective teams. Many of our former teammates go on to play for teams in other cities and we get to reconnect with them when we play those teams each year.”
For those athletes who are intrigued, but hesitant to take the leap into a new sport, Antal has some encouraging advice.
“In America, many rugby players don't start playing until college or later, so no one expects you to know what you're doing at rst and people are very welcoming and encouraging,” he says. “Rugby is a fun way to stay t and compete in a team sport that you can play well after you graduate high school or college as there are adult men's and women's teams all over the country.”
INTRAMURAL SPORTS AT MU
e list of intramural sports at MU is long, and individual sports like fencing, running, and swimming are popular throughout the year, says Ethan Cobb, assistant director for sports and competition at MU. But when it comes to team sports, basketball is the most popular intramural sport, with leagues o ered each semester.
More than 110 teams register for intramural basketball each semester, Cobb says. As interest in basketball remains strong, interest in intramural pickleball has also exploded.
“In my rst year here (2021-2022), we o ered a single day tournament that quickly lled up with more than thirty doubles teams,” Cobb says. “In the years since, we have o ered a tournament each semester, along with a league that sees great participation.”
is year’s intramural o erings will include new events like three-on-three sand soccer and archery tag, and Cobb says he is hopeful that they will gain a following.
“Fencing and ultimate Frisbee are some of our lesser-known clubs that actually have signi cant interest from the student body, and compete at a high level,” Cobb says. “ ese aren’t necessarily sports that have a ton of participation at the high school level, aside from the club/private scene, which makes this environment perfect for those sports.”
In the past couple years, the university has also introduced a new type of intramural club — esports a liated clubs Valorant, Overwatch, and League of Legends.
Two additional sports will make their debut this fall, when Submission wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club will ocially welcome athletes from the Mizzou community.
While Mizzou club sports are open to enrolled MU students and some faculty and sta , the eligibility requirements for other sports vary.
“Depending on the sport, national governing bodies may have stricter requirements for competition, such as students only, or a minimum enrollment requirement,” Cobb says. Intramural sports par-
ticipation is open to anyone who has a MizzouRec membership, who will then be eligible to purchase an Intramural Sports Pass. e pass will be required for league sports, while most tournament o erings will not require the pass.
THE KITCHEN
For those who can’t get enough pickleball, e Kitchen Grill & Games at 3717 Discovery Parkway o ers indoor courts that are open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m.
“Just based on the initial, overwhelming feedback we received after we initially announced e Kitchen, we went back and increased the footprint of the entire place,” says Jack Cardetti, spokesperson for e Kitchen. “ e popularity of pickleball is exploding and because it’s a fun sport that can be enjoyed by all ages, we don’t see that popularity slowing down. But mid-Missourians need more places where they can play the sport and e Kitchen will give them a truly unique opportunity to do so.”
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WE ASKED OUR READERS...
What’s your favorite piece of sports memorabilia in your personal collection?
Keepsakes with deep connections to generational traditions and memories are especially valuable when they are sports memorabilia. We asked our Facebook followers to brag about their favorite collectables.
Travis Kelce signed Jersey with my son from last year.
— TOMMY GORAN
My son has a Tyreek Hill signed photo and helmet and few other Chiefs and movie pieces. His favorite is his Travis Kelce signed football. (Him on the last Super Bowl Sunday.)
My other son was seven when Benji Molina gave him baseball signed by Yadi during a game. Handed down from a press booth.
— SONYA ADDISON
A Tiger Lounge Media sign from Memorial Stadium, a brick from the St. Louis Arena, a baseball autographed in my presence by Mike Shannon and Bob Uecker, and an autographed picture of Larry Czonka.
— MO LOUIS
Spring training signed ball with Paul Goldschmidt, Tyler O’Neal, Paul DeYoung, Willie McGee, Mike Schmidt, Dexter Fowler, and Rick Ankiel (2019) or my 1992 signed ball and photo with “the Terminator” Tom Henke!
— ADAM VOIGHT
Lou Brock baseball and a Brett Hull autographed sports illustrated cover.
— COSMO NICK
Stan Musial baseball.
— GREG WHEELING
We’ve got some various chiefs stu for sure. All gifted to us.
— HEATHER McGEE
Royals game program autographed by Milwaukee Brewers rookie shortstop Paul Molitor in 1978. And the engraved “Champion” minibat I received for winning the West Virginia Yahoo Fantasy Baseball League in 2012.
— JODIE JACKSON JR (EDITOR)
(No comment needed, see photo.)
— BUCKY PESCAGLIA
