Student Life Evolves as Internationals Join Dodgeball Tournament
On the 10th of Novemeber a Dodgeball tournament took place in the LBTU Sports Centre.
"Dodgeball tournament was created to remind ourselves of our upbringing in the Latvian School system. It was created to make us feel like we did back then - careless and free in a sports lesson, playing a simple, positive game with friends." says Mārtiņš Smilga Head of Sports Department of Student Coouncil. "Ofcourse it takes physical readiness, but that is not the point" says Mārtiņš. Dodgeball creates a fun yet challening environment for the participants! Teams playing against eachother means individuals must cooperate to ensure each individual gets to express his/ her streinghts best whether that would be catching, throwing or plainly escaping the throws of others. It Improves Awarness of your surroundings and develops coordination and quick reaction as well as teamwork!
"Informal events such as this one is a highway of opportunity for International and Latvian students, it increases the probability of individuals and groups opening up and integrating quicker than in a more formal study environment. By creating a welcoming, english speaking and open environment for International students the LBTU students Union is developing the Other side of the coin which is Academic Achievment and we are thankful for that" says Head of International Cooperation Centre Voldemārs Bariss.
This year The tournament saw record numbers as 11 teams started in the tournament with each team having atleast 5 members!
"It seems students are more willing to participate such events than ever!" There were 2 International teams participating this year - One made of erasmus students from Malta and Czech Republic and the other of our double degree students from Uzbekistan! The Erasmus student team got to the quarter finals with 2 wins and 2 loses and the Uzbek team was wiped out pretty early due to not having enough experience playing this game.
"This year we Introdouced local businesses sponsor gifts for the winners to give extra motivation to the students. 150 Euros worth of Laser tag provided by LASERDOG., Sweet vegetarian candies from "Karamelu darbnīca" and a ready to go puree from "Rudolfa Biezeņi" were a part of the gift bags" Mārtiņš expreses. The Tournament took 2 hours to determine which team is the best. After 5 games undefeated, wiping out opponents in the final game and convincing everyone of their true strength and power the team "Meiteņu Spēks" which translates to "The Girls Power" took home 1st place and gifts from the sponsors.
"The Game was Interesting not only for the particpinats, but also those who came to support their friends" says Mārtiņš after recieving feedback. "We are looking forward to next semesters tournament hopefully with more local international students!"
