2008/09 ANNUAL REPORT
D I V I S I O N O F R E C R E AT I O N A L S P O R T S T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F T E X A S AT A U S T I N
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION............................................................ 2 LEARNING OUTCOMES............................................. 3–10 Community...........................3–4 Leadership.............................5–6 Life Skills..............................7–8 Wellness................................9–10
DIVISIONAL OVERVIEW........................................... 11–12
AWARDS & ACCOLADES.............................................. 12
TEXAS PARENTS........................................................... 13
DEVELOPMENT............................................................ 13
WE'RE MORE THAN RECSPORTS................................... 14
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART........................................... 15
SPECIAL THANKS......................................................... 16
VISION/MISSION/VALUES........................................... 17
STUDENTS
The core of The University of Texas at Austin and the foundation of the Division of Recreational Sports As a Student Affairs agency, the Division of Recreational Sports is committed to providing quality facilities, programs and services to the students of this campus. However, what lies beneath the surface of the stateof-the-art facilities and diverse program offerings is far more complex than meets the eye.
WHAT HAPPENS HERE?
On any given day an individual might enter any one of the 10 facilities that RecSports oversees and catch a glimpse of the expected: A pick-up game of basketball. Participants enjoying a fitness class. Scores of individuals on the cardio machines. A sport club practicing at Whitaker Fields. A lifeguard on rounds at the pool. But look a little deeper because what happens on a typical day at RecSports is far from the ordinary or the expected. Student employees can be found supervising multi-million dollar facilities and instructing safety education classes, while others are preparing to hone their leadership skills on a trip to the remote wilderness areas of the Grand Canyon. And it reaches beyond the 1,000 different students that are employed by the Division. Student participants also look to RecSports as a place to meet with a study group or socialize with friends at the Gregory Gym Aquatic Complex. Student organization leaders regularly receive support and assistance with new initiatives, projects and special events. Examples such as these have little to do with recreation, but are key components to enriching student life. Recreational Sports understands the significant role it plays on campus and in the everyday lives of students. In fact, the most recent student survey reported that 95 percent of participants believe that participation in RecSports contributes to their overall university experience. For almost a century, the Division of Recreational Sports has maintained a proud partnership with the students of The University of Texas at Austin. This partnership is evident in many ways. From providing venues and equipment for exercise and play, to student employment opportunities, to hosting campus-wide events such as convocations, RecSports has come to serve an integral role in the daily lives of students and the campus community. Rooted in the six core values of The University of Texas at Austin, the Division’s 2008/09 learning outcomes have focused on supporting the academic mission through four key themes: community, leadership, life skills and wellness. Included in the following pages are examples in which these themes are applied and practiced and how RecSports is anything but ordinary. PAG E 2
LEARNING OUTCOME: COM MUNIT Y
Through participation in Recreational Sports students recognize and contribute to an inclusive campus community.
HIGHLIGHTS
RecSports facilities are just buildings — structures made of bricks and mortar. Although the buildings serve as physical examples of the Division itself, RecSports places greater value on what happens inside the facilities — the human interactions and activities that take place on a daily basis, such as working out, playing in an intramural league, finding a quiet space to study, learning a new skill through the Instructional Program, competing for a national championship as a Sport Club member or organizing a special event. Each of these activities allows students to become more than just participants. They become connected. They make friends. They feel included and welcome. Most of all, they feel at home.
In support of efforts to provide secure and accessible environments to all students and participants, the Division implemented a D I V ERS I T Y TAS K FO RCE, an internal work team focused on diversity and inclusivity initiatives. In a continued quest to be good citizens of the University community, the Division pledged to reduce its environmental impact and to promote SUS TA I N A B I L I T Y I N I T I AT I V ES beginning with the 2008/09 academic year. In order to publicly educate and promote these efforts to students and the campus community a new section of the RecSports Web site was created.
The spirit of community is at the heart of RecSports. Students and participants are provided comprehensive programs and services that reflect and promote the diversity of participant interests, needs and abilities. RecSports creates environments and opportunities that foster community, form lasting memories and instill a sense of belonging. When RecSports was established nearly a century ago, its founders were focused on offering opportunities for competition and physical activity. Little did they know the power that those opportunities would have on enriching campus life. Over time, the Division has learned the importance of building community and recognizes that participation in recreational activities significantly contributes to building community on campus.
Hosted events for over 150
S T U D EN T O RGA N I Z AT I O N S
throughout the year.
such as the Queer Welcome Carnival, Beep Ball, the Capital Area Games for Life and, for the first time ever, a Juneteenth celebration. H OS T ED E V EN TS
Temporarily converted the Pickle Research Commons Gym to a S PEC I A L N EEDS C A RE FAC I L I T Y for Hurricane Ike evacuees.
FACTS 98 percent of RecSports
student employees and 80 percent of participants believe that their involvement in RecSports helps them appreciate and contribute to an inclusive campus community.
PAG E 3
93 percent of freshmen
participate in some aspect of Recreational Sports.
90 percent of students believe 73 percent of RecSports that RecSports contributes to a sense of community on the campus at The University of Texas at Austin.
student employees are involved in other organizations or clubs on campus.
“RecSports lies at the center of campus involvement for many students. Whether you make friends through its programs, develop your leadership skills and potential, or simply have fun, every student takes something away. And that ‘something’ are the memories and stories you will share for the rest of your life.”
K ES H AV R A JAG O PA L A N, S T U D EN T G OV ERN M EN T PRES I D EN T 20 08/0 9
“RecSports plays a vital role in our program by providing the site for our garage sale. Without the use of RecSports facilities we would not have a means to sell back the reusable items we collect to the community.”
L I N DSAY D RE W ( RI G H T ), T R AS H TO T RE ASU RE CO O RD I N ATO R 20 0 8
“The 2008/09 Orange Jackets Tappee Class' goal for our project was to improve access to feminine hygiene products at The University of Texas at Austin…(RecSports and Texas Parents) were irreplaceable in the quest for female-friendly facilities…and ensured that every women’s restroom in the RecSports building, as well as Gregory Gym, had working hygiene product machines that were properly maintained.”
M U N EE ZEH K A B I R ( L EF T ), O R A N G E JACK E TS TA PPEE 20 08/0 9
PAG E 4
LEARNING OUTCOME: LEADERSHIP
Through participation in Recreational Sports students develop and exhibit leadership skills. At the University of Texas, RecSports demonstrates its commitment to this essential value by creating environments in which students are able to learn and practice leadership skills on a daily basis. In doing so, RecSports plays an integral role in discovering, nurturing and developing leaders.
HIGHLIGHTS Developed and conducted the G U I D E S CH O O L pilot program, a semester long leadership development curriculum designed to train and educate students to become adventure trip leaders.
RecSports offers a unique approach to developing leaders – one that goes beyond the walls of an academic classroom. The “classrooms” that RecSports utilize can be found anywhere it sponsors activities, whether on a river in the back country of Colorado during an Outdoor Adventure trip, in the group exercise studio at the Recreational Sports Center, or on the intramural fields just north of campus. Students leading these activities may not realize it, but they are receiving on-the-job-training as leaders.
Appointed nine students to serve on the S P O RT C LU B CO U N C I L to make recommendations on future clubs, serve as an appeal board and review annual budget requests from each club.
Indeed, the best example of student leadership is demonstrated by RecSports student employees. On any given day all of the facilities, programs and services operated by RecSports are directly in the hands of part-time student staff. These student employees are responsible for managing events, maintaining equipment, providing customer service and sometimes serving in peer supervisory roles. Student employees clearly demonstrate their leadership skills on a daily basis.
Supervised 20 I N T R A M U R A L S P O RTS CO O RD I N ATO RS who managed 233 officials and scorekeepers and handled hiring, training, scheduling, evaluating and processing payroll.
But leadership skills are not only observed in the student employees. Many students volunteer their time to serve on divisional councils and committees, while others serve as leaders of their sport club or manage their intramural team. Additionally, student organizational leaders unassociated with RecSports often look for assistance in planning and hosting their events.
Appointed two students to serve on a feasibility study committee for a PRO P OS ED O U T D O O R L E A D E R S H I P D E V ELO PM EN T
to be located on Lady Bird Lake. CEN T ER
Without a doubt, leadership development is exhibited in and around RecSports facilities every day.
FACTS 1,800 students served
as Intramural Team Captains managing their respective teams' registration, schedule and roster.
PAG E 5
1,000 students are
employed each year by RecSports in over 50 different job titles.
Appointed 12 students to serve on the I N T R A M U R A L CO U N C I L whose members determine policy, advise on the program’s future direction and fees, and hear all disciplinary action and eligibility cases.
76 percent of students
believe that RecSports provides meaningful leadership opportunities for student development.
38 percent of RecSports
student staff serve in leadership positions in other organizations or clubs on campus.
“One of the most valuable experiences I’ve had with RecSports has been working as the Programs Assistant for the Outdoor Center. Transitioning from an employee to being the ‘boss’ of my peers really intimidated me, however, I was able to learn how to manage a group of my peers, as well as valuable lessons in customer service. Through my time at RecSports I have learned to effectively compromise and enhance my problem solving skills.”
K EL LY B U RN S, S EN I O R, O U T D O O R RECRE AT I O N PA RT–T I M E S T U D EN T E M PLOYEE
“RecSports allowed me the opportunities to interact with leaders on our campus and influential professional staff who helped mentor me and lead me to my future plans.”
K RI S T I N D U R A N T (S ECO N D FRO M L EF T ), S EN I O R, U T VO L L E YBA L L CLU B M E M B ER, I N T R A M U R A L VO L L E YBA L L REFEREE A N D PA RT I C I PA N T, S P O RT CLU B CO U N C I L M E M B ER, S PL AS H BAS H CO M M I T T EE M E M B ER
“My experience at RecSports during and after my time at UT has been incredibly helpful. The full time staff exposed me to the NIRSA (National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association) where I was able to referee at regional and national tournaments, and present at conferences. Without RecSports I would not be the young professional I am today. They have provided me with tremendous insight and growth opportunities.”
CH RI S G O R M L E Y, 20 07 G R A D UAT E, I N T R A M U R A L O FFI C I A L A N D FO R M ER S T U D EN T E M PLOYEE
PAG E 6
LEARNING OUTCOME: LIFE SKILLS
Through participation in Recreational Sports students learn and demonstrate meaningful life skills.
HIGHLIGHTS
College is the place where the majority of students experience their freedom for the first time. With this newfound freedom, students face the responsibility of having to decide what to do and when to do it, both in and out of the classroom. As a result, for college students, each and every day is a learning experience in which they demonstrate life skills.
Given a list of 10 life skills, RecSports student employees indicated that working with D I V ERS E P O PU L AT I O N S was the most significantly developed skill facilitated by their employment experience.
Although RecSports provides facilities and services primarily for recreational needs, it also provides a training ground for developing life skills such as decision making, problem solving, sportsmanship and self-confidence. Examples of these are evident throughout RecSports.
20 O F T H E 25 PA RT I C I PA N TS
that completed the Yoga, Pilates and Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer courses were hired as fitness staff.
Take a personal training client for instance. A student registers to work with a personal trainer at Gregory Gym. On the day of her appointment, she is running late. She calls her trainer to communicate the problem and together they find a time that will work better for their session. Responsibility, communication and time management skills are demonstrated.
Gym Store cashiers EN H A N CED T H EI R CUS TO M ER S ERV I C E
skills through training and implementation of a point of sale system.
Or consider the facility staff member who realizes that a room is overbooked. Two groups need the space for their respective program. The employee gathers all of the necessary information and resolves the problem using his resources and past experience. His critical thinking and conf lict resolution skills assist him in converting a potential problem into an amicable solution.
Lifeguard training allows aquatic staff to continue education on L I FESAV I N G S K I L L S. All five of the five graduating senior members of the RecSports Alliance (a student organization focused on developing students pursuing a career in recreational sports) attended the NIRSA Annual Conference in Charlotte, N.C., and accepted offers of
RecSports provides opportunities for participants and employees to learn new skills and practice others. Each day, students display their ability to share and compromise when they are waiting for their turn on a cardio machine or for a basketball court. Meanwhile, student employees demonstrate responsibility, communication and teamwork skills while managing the facilities and programs. Undoubtedly, RecSports reaches beyond physical activity and assists in developing meaningful life skills.
FACTS 97 percent of student
employees feel that their employment with RecSports contributes to their ability to apply valuable life skills.
PAG E 7
85 percent of freshmen
indicate that participation in RecSports contributes to their ability to learn and apply life skills such as time management, critical thinking and problem solving.
G R A D UAT E A S S I S TA N T
at other university recreational sports programs. P OS I T I O N S
77 percent of students
believe that participation in RecSports contributes to their ability to apply valuable life skills.
60 participants completed
over 100 training hours required to obtain a wilderness medicine certification through the Wilderness Medicine Institute.
“RecSports helped me develop the patience, communication skills and positive attitude needed on a continual basis to be a well-rounded employee with the capability to direct others.”
K YL E L I SA B E T H, S EN I O R, C A P TA I N O F T H E U T I CE H O CK E Y CLU B A N D O U T D O O R RECRE AT I O N PA RT–T I M E S T U D EN T E M PLOYEE
“My initial interest in applying for a job at Gregory Gym was due to the fact that it was convenient since I lived across the street at Jester. …Slowly I was given more responsibility and gained the trust to complete tasks that required going the extra mile. ...I never expected to be promoted (but) soon I was asked to become the retail coordinator. I take pride in my job and I know that what I do contributes to the overall function of RecSports.”
LYD I A PERE Z C A RREO N, J U N I O R, GYM S TO RE S T U D EN T CO O RD I N ATO R
“One of the things I’ve learned the most (from RecSports) is sportsmanship. During the week I competitively played against peer organizations but every Saturday we would come together to cheer for the Longhorns.”
EL I OT COT TO N, S ECO N D YE A R L AW S T U D EN T A N D I N T R A M U R A L PA RT I C I PA N T
PAG E 8
LEARNING OUTCOME: WELLNESS
Through participation in Recreational Sports students understand and integrate wellness concepts and practices.
HIGHLIGHTS
Thousands of students get physically fit by availing themselves of the many opportunities for exercise and fitness that RecSports offers, including the ever-popular TeXercise classes and Cardio Theater exercise lounge where students can enjoy a vigorous work out while watching their favorite TV show. But there’s more than physical fitness taking place with these types of activities. Studies show that by working out three times a week for 20 minutes at a time, students are more likely to sleep better, make smarter food choices and improve their cardiovascular health. In other words, these activities translate to wellness.
The Fitness/Wellness Program participated in and/or conducted numerous O U T RE ACH PRO G R A M S for the campus community. Some of these included Fit-To-Go, Wellness Hunt, Health Splash, Fit Fest, Healthy Body–Healthy Mind Fair, Stress Busters Fair and StressFest.
Being well consists of more than just being physically fit and having healthy habits. Wellness includes other components, including social interaction, which can be enhanced by participating in RecSports programs and activities.
Participated in the Student Affairs W EL L N ES S N E T WO RK with staff serving as both leaders and members of the group, which is geared toward promoting wellness to the campus community.
Some may not realize the importance that social and emotional health has on overall well-being. For example, intramural participants look forward to their weekly game so they can interact with their friends and get some exercise playing a sport they love. Sport club teammates develop friendships while training and competing. Then there are others who use the weight room each day and strike up a conversation with a fellow participant, soon becoming friends because of a common interest.
Recorded 12,271 participation hours, a 504 percent increase from the previous academic year, in the ADVENTU RE TRI P
Finally, RecSports also provides the opportunity for students to integrate the concept of environmental wellness into their daily routines. Environmental wellness encompasses a relationship with personal surroundings. For decades students have demonstrated great respect for RecSports facilities by caring for them and treating them as their own by reporting maintenance issues, picking up after themselves and leaving the facilities as they found them.
PRO GR A M .
In an attempt to provide
W EL L N ES S O PP O RT U N I T I ES
to the entire UT community, RecSports held free preview weeks each semester, presented at Human Resource Forums and individual departments and hosted the Poker Walk in conjunction with National Employee Health and Fitness Day.
Clearly, students enhance their well-being as a result of their participation in RecSports programs and activities.
Recorded 77,000 hours of participation in the FI T N ES S/ W EL L N ES S PRO G R A M .
FACTS 1,200 UT faculty/staff
participated in the 18th Annual Poker Walk celebrating National Employee Health & Fitness Day, setting a new record for the event.
PAG E 9
94 percent of student
employees believe that their employment with RecSports contributes to their ability to integrate wellness concepts and practices.
94 percent of Fitness/
Wellness pass holders agree that their participation in the RecSports Fitness/Wellness Program has contributed to their overall sense of wellness.
88 percent of students
indicate that participating in RecSports contributes to their ability to understand and integrate wellness concepts and practices.
“ I enjoy working out in the faculty/staff weight room in Gregory. I’ve run two marathons in the past couple of years, my most recent in San Diego last May. Challenging myself to complete the race gave me a great sense of accomplishment. Working out in Gregory Gym helps supplement my running and keeps me in good shape to continue running.”
TO NY Z A PATA , RECS P O RTS FACU LT Y/S TA FF M E M B ER S I N CE 1987
“RecSports has helped me manage my stress especially during my prerequisite classes before applying to Nursing School. When I was having a stressful day with many upcoming deadlines, the one thing that would put a smile on my face was attending a Fit/Well class or teaching one. It helped raise my spirits and would re-energize my day so I could study hard.”
CH RI S T I N A S T YL I A N O U, J U N I O R, FI T N ES S/ W EL L N ES S I N S T RU C TO R
“TeXercise classes are addictive. I started going to one class twice a week and now go to a different class five days a week. The classes not only get me in shape but they help me outside the gym as well. I feel I am more organized, I have more energy and feel more confident about myself. TeXercise classes are the reason.”
A N N I E - L EE TAYLO R, SO PH O M O RE, T E X ERC I S E PA RT I C I PA N T
PAG E 10
DIVISIONAL OVERVIEW
Throughout the 2008/09 academic year, the Division of Recreational Sports provided opportunities for students, faculty, staff and RecSports members to engage in fitness, adventure, competition and more. Listed below are some numbers of interest from the year.
FITNESS/WELLNESS Series/Clinics Offered:
INTRAMURALS TEAM SPORTS
SPORT CLUBS Sport Club Participants:
��������������������1,993
��������������������� 66
Basketball Teams:
Fitness Assessments Conducted:
Flag Football Teams:
RECREATIONAL CLUB MEMBERS
Indoor Soccer Teams:
����������������������� 30
������������������������� 50 Personal Training Clients:
����������������������� 372 TeXercise Classes Offered:
�������������������� 4,80 0 TeXercise Passes Sold:
�������������������� 4,039 Group Cycling Classes Offered:
��������������������� 557 ��������������������� 426 ����������������������� 96 Soccer Teams:
��������������������� 276 Softball Teams:
��������������������� 295 Sports Trivia Teams:
�������������������� 1,34 4
����������������������� 16
Group Cycling Passes Sold:
����������������������� 12
�������������������� 1,40 0 OUTDOOR RECREATION Adventure Trip Participants:
����������������������� 188 Adventure Trips Offered:
������������������������� 23 Climbing Wall Passes Sold:
����������������������� 339 Climbing Wall Classes Offered:
�������������������������� 9 Climbing Wall Special Event Participants:
Ultimate Teams:
Volleyball Teams:
��������������������� 214 Water Volleyball Teams:
����������������������� 26 INDIVIDUAL EVENTS
Billiards Participants:
����������������������� 25 Bowling Participants:
����������������������� 48 Fun Run Participants:
����������������������� 61
�������������������� 1,350
Golf Participants:
Wilderness Leadership Participants:
Handball Participants:
������������������������� 60
�����������������������64 ����������������������� 24
Ballet Folklorico:
Lacrosse–Men’s:
Ballroom Dance:
Lacrosse–Women’s:
Dance Team:
Polo:
Golf:
Powerlifting:
����������������������� 30 ��������������������� 206 ����������������������� 20 ����������������������� 21 Japan Karate:
Sailing Team:
Racquetball:
Soccer – Men’s:
Sailing Club:
Soccer – Women’s:
Squash:
Tennis:
Table Tennis:
Ultimate – Men’s:
ITF Taekwon-Do:
Ultimate –Women’s:
WTF Taekwondo:
Volleyball – Men’s:
Wushu:
Volleyball –Women’s:
�����������������������45 ����������������������� 37 ����������������������� 39 ����������������������� 41
Private Swim Instruction Clients:
COMPETITIVE CLUB MEMBERS
Tennis Participants:
Archery:
Track Meet Participants:
Baseball:
����������������������� 545
����������������������� 46 ����������������������� 18 �����������������������45 �����������������������4 4
����������������������� 61 ����������������������� 34 Bass Team:
����������������������� 32
Average Daily Web Site Visits:
Crew:
Online Store Transactions:
Cycling:
�������������������� 2,80 0 ������������������� 10,270
��������������������� 116 ����������������������� 78
PAG E 11
Roller Hockey:
Marathon Team:
����������������������� 24
BUSINESS SERVICES
����������������������� 33
Rugby –Women’s:.
����������������������� 40
����������������������� 241
Safety Education Class Participants:
����������������������� 28
Kendo:
Table Tennis Participants:
������������������������� 74
����������������������� 37
Rugby – Men’s:
����������������������� 52
Aquatic Class Participants:
��������������������� 118
����������������������� 48
Judo:
������������������������� 59
Safety Education Classes Offered:
����������������������� 30
����������������������� 24
Swim Meet Participants:
��������������������� 190
����������������������� 32
����������������������� 25
Aquatic Classes Offered:
������������������������� 58
����������������������� 48
Ice Hockey:
������������������������ 5
INSTRUCTIONAL
��������������������� 108
Gymnastics:
Badminton:
Racquetball Participants:
��������������������� 122
����������������������� 53 Handball:
����������������������� 712
��������������������� 125
Fencing:
Aikido:
March Bracket Madness Participants:
Equipment Rental Contracts:
COMPETITIVE CLUBS CONTINUED
����������������������� 87 ����������������������� 38 ����������������������� 28 ����������������������� 54 ����������������������� 23 ����������������������� 32 ����������������������� 59 ����������������������� 51 ����������������������� 35 ����������������������� 38 Water Polo – Men’s:
����������������������� 32 Water Polo – Women’s:
����������������������� 25 Water Skiing:
����������������������� 75 Wrestling:
����������������������� 18
AWARDS & ACCOL ADES
Each year, the Division is recognized for excellence and achievements by various organizations, including the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA), of which RecSports is a member. This year’s awards are described below.
NIRSA CREATIVE EXCELLENCE AWARDS FACILITIES Total Number of Hours of Participation:
�������������� 3,50 0,0 0 0 Gregory Gym Daily Entries:
�������������� 1,20 0,484 Recreational Sports Center Daily Entries:
����������������� 297,571
The RecSports Communications Team won the following Creative Excellence Awards, which were presented at the 2009 National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association Conference & Exposition: 1S T PL ACE 1S T PL ACE 2N D PL ACE 2N D PL ACE
L A RG E FO R M AT S I G N AG E I N T R A M U R A L T- S H I RT O U T D O O R RECRE AT I O N T- S H I RT S PEC I A L E V EN T T- S H I RT
NIRSA WILLIAM WASSON AWARD
Equipment Checkout Transactions:
Graduate Assistant Roz Jones was awarded the Wasson Award which recognizes top students who are participants and/or employed by Recreational Sports and who demonstrate leadership qualities.
Campus Organization Reservations:
GRAPHIC DESIGN USA MAGAZINE AWARD
����������������� 106,719 ����������������������� 250 Special Events Hosted:
����������������������� 511 Racquetball/Squash Court Reservations:
RecSports Senior Graphic Designer Jess Moss won the American In-house Design Award from Graphic Design USA Magazine for the summer 2009 Youth Camp brochures. Honors were shared with graduating senior Stephanie Leib (College of Fine Arts), who worked as a graphic design production assistant at RecSports.
������������������� 27,030 Total Square Footage of Indoor Space:
��������������� 50 0,0 0 0+ Total Acres of Outdoor Space:
������������������������� 40 MEMBERSHIPS/GUEST SERVICES
Faculty/Staff Memberships:
�������������������� 2,30 0 Non-UT Memberships:
�������������������� 2,40 0 Towel Service Participants:
����������������������� 720 Locker Rentals:
�������������������� 4,30 0 Massages Conducted:
�������������������� 1,857 Mobile Massages Conducted:
������������������������� 35
THOMAS W. DISON ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
The 2008 Thomas W. Dison Endowed Scholarship was awarded to two deserving student employees, both of whom graduated in May 2009: Carolina Canavati (left), who majored in Marketing with a minor in Management, and Chance Young (right), who majored in American Studies. The students pose with Tom Dison.
PERSONNEL
Full–Time Employees:
������������������������� 50 Part–Time Employees:
�������������������� 1,0 0 0
PAG E 12
TEX AS PARENTS
Texas Parents is a unit of the Division of Student Affairs, which is aligned with the Division of Recreational Sports Contributed more than $87,000 to student organizations, Student Affairs and Texas Parents projects and events dedicated to improving student life on campus. Formalized sponsorship agreements with the University Co-op and University Federal Credit Union. Formalized partnerships with:
AT&T E X ECU T I V E ED U C AT I O N A N D CO N FEREN CE CEN T ER E M BAS SY SU I T ES H OT EL H A M P TO N I N N S H ER ATO N AUS T I N H OT EL T E X AS E X ES T I FF’S T RE ATS
U T CLU B T E X AS S T U D EN T M ED I A T E X AS U N I O N D I V I S I O N O F H O US I N G A N D FO O D S ERV I CE D I V I S I O N O F RECRE AT I O N A L S P O RTS AUS T I N D U CK A DV EN T U RES P O L K A D OTS CU P C A K ES U T PRES I D EN T’S O FFI CE V I C E PRES I D EN T FO R S T U D EN T A FFA I RS’ O FFI CE
Received more than 1,500 e-mails and telephones calls from parents and families. Acted as a sponsor of the Barbara Jordan Statue Unveiling event. Hosted the 2nd annual Big XII Parent Programs Conference at UT. Launched the Roundtable Discussion Program through which other UT departments/offices are invited to join Texas Parents for a discussion of each of the offices’ mission, resources and collaboration opportunities. Planned the Celebration of Leadership Dinner attended by more than 230 students, parents, families and UT staff. Organized the Student Affairs Leadership Awards on behalf of Vice President for Student Affairs Juan González. Secured Senator Kirk Watson as guest speaker. Coordinated the Student Leader Reunion on behalf of Vice President for Student Affairs Juan González.
Expanded the number of activities for the 2008 Family Weekend from 37 to 72 events and programs, a 95 percent increase from last year.
Installed 118 commemorative paver bricks on the Student Services Building Plaza, 12 of which were in memory of deceased UT students.
Increased the circulation of the monthly e-newsletter from 4,830 to 5,486 parents and UT staff members, a 13.5 percent increase from last year.
DEVELOPMENT the Division’s development program in conjunction with UT’s Capital Campaign. PU B L I CLY L AU N CH ED
Added
FI V E A D D I T I O N A L S T U D EN T E M PLOYEE EN D OW ED
S CH O L A RS H I PS,
three of which were awarded in August 2009.
E X PA N D ED T H E I N S I D E RECS P O RTS N E WS L E T T ER
Development section and a donation envelope. Launched a FRI EN DS
to feature a
WALL OF FAME PIC?
O F RECS P O RTS W EB S I T E.
Hosted A LU M N I REU N I O N S for the Delts and Fijis of 1960s and the Legal Eagles. Began fundraising efforts with the L ACROS S E Completed the first phase of the D I G I TA L project (1960-1985).
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A LU M N I.
WA L L O F FA M E
Members of the 2008/09 Development Leadership Team.
WE’RE MORE THAN RECSPORTS – 2008/09
Entertained more than 20,000 students at the 17 T H A N N UA L PA RT Y O N T H E PL A Z A on Sept. 3, featuring a student organization fair, the annual Scholarship Shootout, a benefit pizza lunch, carnival games and much more, raising over $3,300 for the UT Student Emergency Fund.
Received FO U R G R A PH I C D ES I G N AWA RDS from the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) including two first-place awards: one for large format signage and one for an Intramural T-shirt. Second-place awards were presented for an Outdoor Recreation T-shirt and the Poker Walk T-shirt.
Hosted the O PEN I N G
Raised more than $91,0 0 0 Parents Calling Program.
PL EN A RY S ES S I O N O F T H E CL I N TO N G LO BA L
featuring former President Bill Clinton and attended by over 1,000 college students from throughout the world who were seeking solutions to global problems. I N I T I AT I V E U N I V ERS I T Y
Surpassed O N E M I L L I O N over 2,800 visits per day.
V I S I TS
to www.utrecsports.org, averaging
I N D O N AT I O N S
through the Texas
Gained national peer recognition as Graduate Assistant Roz Jones was awarded the N I RSA WI L L I A M WAS SO N AWA RD, which recognizes top student participants and employees in recreational sports programs.
Participated in the campus-wide E X PLO RE U T –The Biggest Open House in Texas on March 7 by sponsoring an open house featuring tours of Gregory Gym, sport club demonstrations and free climbing on the indoor Climbing Wall.
Hosted approximately 3,500 fifth-graders and their families at the 19T H A N N UA L A I S D VO L L E YBA L L PL AYDAY in March as a means of introducing them to the University and the value of recreational sports.
Celebrated N AT I O N A L E M PLOYEE H E A LT H A N D FI T N ES S DAY on May 13 by hosting the 18T H A N N UA L P O K ER WA L K for faculty and staff, attracting over 1,200 participants, including 135 teams, who competed for Best Hand, Best Name and Best Costume.
Boosted the benefits of fitness and health during N AT I O N A L RECRE AT I O N A L S P O RTS A N D FI T N ES S DAY with free facility admission, fitness classes and indoor climbing.
Hosted a FRI EN DS O F RECS P O RTS O PEN H O US E on Nov. 8 featuring a breakfast buffet for invited guests, which included past intramural champions who enjoyed reminiscing with their peers. Developed a CO M PU T ERI ZED S CH ED U L I N G system.
I N T R A M U R A L S CO RI N G A N D
Created
ROTAT I N G A DS
on the home page of the Web site.
Established presence on the U N I V ERS I T Y’S
A N N UA L G I V I N G
W EB S I T E.
Implemented
and an O N L I N E for part-time student employees.
EL EC T RO N I C FI N A N C I A L REP O RT I N G
T I M E S H EE T SYS T E M
Conducted YO U T H C A M PS I N SO CCER, L ACROS S E A N D U LT I M AT E D I S C, serving 500 boys and girls from the Austin community.
Expanded WI REL ES S Sports Center.
Hosted 16,950 graduates and their families May 22 and 23 at seven CO N VO C AT I O N CERE M O N I ES held in Gregory Gym.
Processed over 5, 50 0 I N D I V I D UA L RES ERVAT I O N S of RecSports facilities for 250 different campus organizations.
ACCES S
in Gregory Gym and the Recreational
Co-sponsored DA N CE M A R AT H O N on Feb. 21, raising $15,000 for the new Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas. Provided mentoring to FI V E A L L I A N CE S T U D EN TS, five of whom accepted graduate assistantships at various institutions around the country with the intent to pursue careers in recreational sports. Contributed M O RE T H A N $87,0 0 0 TO S T U D EN T O RGA N I Z AT I O N S, Student Affairs and Texas Parents projects and events dedicated to improving student life on campus. Overhauled W EB
S I T E G R A PH I CS
on www.utrecsports.org.
Enhanced CUS TO M ER S ERV I C E with online court reservations, updated towel service and a new point of sale system in the Gym Store. Celebrated the end of the academic year on May 6 at the 4T H A N N UA L S PL AS H BAS H where students and RecSports members relaxed and enjoyed lunch and live music provided by local bands.
Former President Bill Clinton (center) with Recreational Sports staff members.
PAG E 14
O RGANIZ ATIONAL CHART 2008/09 Director/Associate Vice President Thomas W. Dison Senior Associate Director Eric Stoutner
Assistant to the Director Meggan De Gennaro Administrative Associate (Director) Nilka Campos
B US I N ES S S ERV I C ES
CO M M U N I C AT I O N S & D E V ELO PM EN T
PRO G R A M S
Accounting/Budget Business Operations Contracts Information Technology Human Resources UT Policies & Procedures
Intramural Sports Sport Clubs Outdoor Recreation Fitness/Wellness Instructional Program Safety Certifications Youth Camps
Publicity/Promotions Memberships Retail/Vending Development Communications Public Relations
FAC I L I T Y O PER AT I O N S Capital Improvements Event Management Facility Scheduling Facility Supervision Informal Recreation Maintenance Operations
Business/Financial Officer Bev Wehmeier
Associate Director Randall Ford
Associate Director Jennifer Speer
Associate Director Pete Schaack
Human Resources Coordinator Sarah Bubolz
Assistant Intramural Coordinator Darci Doll
Facility Coordinator Allison Van Leeuwen
Administrative Associate (HR) Brittany W. Balakrishnan
Campus Relations & Special Projects Coordinator Bob Childress
Assistant Sport Club Coordinator Chad McKenzie
Office Manager (Business Office) Judy White
Graduate Assistant Bethany Massman
Financial Analyst Bridget Lawrence
Fitness/Wellness Coordinator Sarah Jordan
Office Manager (Accounting) Katambra Rose
Graduate Assistant Fitness/Wellness Roz Jones
Administrative Assistant (Accounting) Nisreen Abousaid
Outdoor/Instructional Program Coordinator Nicole Olmeda
Database Coordinator Derek Knight
Assistant Outdoor Recreation Coordinator Chris Burnett
Senior Systems Analyst Matthew Daumen
Development Coordinator Chris Maguire Membership Coordinator Rhonda Cox Retail Manager Jeff Yeomans Publicity/Promotions Coordinator Sylvia Ramirez Senior Graphics Designer Jess Moss
Administrative Assistant (Fit/Well, Outdoor & Instructional) Dixon Hankins
T E X AS PA REN TS Parents’ Association Parent Advocacy Special Events Grants & Awards Student Affairs Projects & Initiatives Senior Program Director Lisa Sparks
Administrative Assistant (Intramurals, Sport Clubs & Youth Camps) Melinda Heidenreich Administrative Assistant (Memberships) Lanay Kibodeaux
2008/09 Recreational Sports Committee Members
PAG E 15
Faculty Council Appointees David P. Birdsong, Ph.D. Nikita Storojev, Ph.D.
Assistant Facility Coordinator (Gregory Gym) E.J. Patterson Assistant Facility Coordinator (Outdoor Satellites) Brian Stillman Office Manager (Facilities) Robbie Reed
Maintenance Coordinator Travis Hilterbran Mechanic/Technician Bob Smith, Kent Stracener Maintenance Worker III Steve Mercer Assistant Building Attendant Leader Reaven Hall Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Clifton Murphy Maintenance Worker III Coffy Davis
Program Coordinator Laura McLaughlin Student Representatives Kristin L. Durant Alex Gold Ashley A. Nelson James Shaw
Assistant Facility Coordinator (Indoor Satellites) Christina Hardin
Administrative Assistant (Informal Rec) Kristen Nussa
Senior Office Manager Emily Peterson
Systems Analyst Jimmy Hammond
Assistant Facility Coordinator (Aquatic Complex) Shannon Kennedy
Maintenance Worker II Nathaniel Blaylock, Quincy Hodges Staff Representatives Robert G. Bruce, Ph.D. Laura B. Flack Philip M. Gavenda
General Faculty Appointees John R. Allison, J.D. Ronald B. Anderson, Ph.D. Elizabeth Cullingford (chair), Ph.D. James W. Deitrick (vice chair), DBA Eric P. Fahrenthold, Ph.D. Mary A. Steinhardt, Ed.D.
SPECIAL THANKS The Division of Recreational Sports extends its sincerest appreciation and thanks to the following individuals who volunteered their time and energy to carry out the Division’s programs, activities and special events during 2008/09. 2008/09 RECREATIONAL SPORTS COMMITTEE John R. Allison, J.D. Ronald B. Anderson, Ph.D. David P. Birdsong, Ph.D. Robert G. Bruce, Ph.D. Elizabeth Cullingford (chair), Ph.D. James W. Deitrick (vice chair), DBA Kristin L. Durant Eric P. Fahrenthold, Ph.D. Laura B. Flack Philip M. Gavenda Alex Gold Ashley A. Nelson James Shaw Mary A. Steinhardt, Ed.D. Nikita Storojev, Ph.D.
SPORT CLUB COUNCIL
Matt Campbell — Men’s Ultimate Alina Daszkowski —Women’s Ultimate Kristin Durant—Women’s Volleyball Tyler Grote — Baseball Serena Loftus — Ballroom Dance Michael McDole — Men’s Rugby Erica Saenz — Golf Prianka Singapura —Women’s Soccer Evans Swann — Men’s Lacrosse
INTRAMURAL COUNCIL Devin Friedman Eric Gilmore Vivek Jain Brittan Johnson Max Jones Shara Ma David McCoy Ashley Nelson Sahil Shah James Shaw Laura Vaughn Gregory Weil
FACILITY OPERATIONS COUNCIL
PARTY ON THE PLAZA STUDENT COMMITTEE Minator Azemi Matt Becknal Brittany Davis Chelsea Fosse Enrique Guerrero Tram-Anh Huynh Caitlin James Berenice Medellin Kelly Pavelka Lindsey Schmidt (co-chair) Karina Singh Sarah-Michelle Stearns Amber Walkowiak (co-chair)
SPLASH BASH STUDENT COMMITTEE Danielle Brown Kristin Durant Liam O'Rourke Lindsey Schmidt Amber Walkowiak
DEVELOPMENT LEADERSHIP TEAM R. Gordon Appleman Ann V. Brodnax John S. Butler, Ph.D. Sylvie Crum William H. Cunningham, Ph.D. Kenneth B. Ford, Jr., M.D. Rene A. Garza Bennett J. Glazer Jerry R. Grammer, Ph.D. W. Ed Junell, Jr. Thomas O. McGarity Gigi T. Melrose Annie Holand Miller C. Baker Montgomery Howard D. Nirken J.W. Pieper Michael J. Tomsu Joe Bill Watkins (chair) Charles "Marty" Wender Linda Williams Mark J. Williams
Shanky Balani Grace Hudsonpillar Jacqueline Keller Jordan Mayberry Melissa Morman George Self Steven Seybold Amin Vahora
PAG E 16
OUR VISION:
Exceeding Expectations The Division of Recreational Sports is committed to being the very best of its kind, an organization that continually advances the industry standard and leads the transformation of recreational sports programs nationwide. We envision a dynamic program that positively engages every student and member of The University of Texas community by offering diverse opportunities for the development and growth of the whole person.
OUR MISSION:
Commitment to Excellence
As a Student Affairs agency, Recreational Sports meets the ever–changing needs and interests of students and the campus community by providing programs, services and facilities that are comprehensive, inclusive and unsurpassed in quality. Through participation, we enhance the sociological, physiological and psychological well–being of each individual. We create environments and opportunities that foster community, form lasting memories and instill a sense of belonging. We promote physical fitness, healthy habits and balanced behaviors, improving the overall wellness of participants. We teach students meaningful life skills, encourage personal achievement, and develop involved and responsible citizens. In fulfilling this mission, we support and complement the institution’s academic and public service objectives, and make significant contributions to The University’s disciplined culture of excellence.
OUR VALUES
Exceptional Service Built Upon Mutual Respect Our commitment to our customers:
Our commitment to one another:
QUALITY
We believe in honesty, fairness, and high ethical standards, embracing trust and respect as the foundation of our organization’s culture.
We adhere to the highest standards, attend to every detail, utilize resources effectively and strive to exceed expectations in all that we do.
SERVICE
We work diligently to earn the confidence and loyalty of our customers by providing a diverse, innovative and responsive program that focuses on participant satisfaction.
COLLABORATION
We foster relationships and serve as good citizens of The University by partnering with students, campus agencies and the greater community to support projects and events.
STUDENT DEVELOPMENT
We facilitate opportunities for learning, self–discovery, and leadership development through experiential education, team building and role modeling.
COMMUNITY
We provide secure, accessible environments and diverse experiences that assist students in forging friendships, realizing a sense of belonging and improving self–esteem. PAG E 17
INTEGRITY
EXCELLENCE
We employ a knowledgeable and conscientious staff, and encourage professional development, staff achievement and a superior quality of work.
RESPONSIBILITY
We honor our commitments, and recognize that accountability and professionalism are essential components of an effective and interdependent team.
INVOLVEMENT
We promote an interactive and inclusive work environment that is dedicated to courteous behavior, consideration of others, mutual respect and the free exchange of ideas.
PROGRESS
We embrace innovation, creativity and imagination, resulting in a visionary approach to positive change and continuous improvement.
CONTINUING A UNIVERSITY TRADITION E D U C AT I O N T H R O U G H R E C R E AT I O N
D IVISI O N O F RECRE ATI O NAL SPO RTS 1 U N I V ERS I T Y S TAT I O N D750 0 AUS T I N, T E X AS 78712- 0395 W W W.U T RECS P O RTS.O RG