"Clash
of the Quads" Revives UAlbany Tradition
Contact
Heidi Weber (518) 437-4980
ALBANY,
N.Y. (October 9, 2003) -- The University at Albany's "Clash
of the Quads," a two-day competition for freshman where
students will compete in events ranging from kickball to a
tri-cycle race (with a twist), will be held Oct. 11-12, noon
to 4 p.m., on Indian and State Quads on the Uptown Campus.
The event includes elements of an old UAlbany rivalry between
classes and aims to revive this tradition for freshman.
Associate
Vice President for Student Affairs Christine Bouchard said,
"The 'Clash of the Quads' was created to revive an old
tradition that encourages school spirit and inspires pride
in the University at Albany."
When
UAlbany was known as the New York State College for Teachers
from 1914 to 1959, a tradition was born that lasted into the
1960's between freshman and sophomore classes. The rivalry
began on what was then called Campus Day in late October and
lasted throughout the year until Moving-Up-Day just before
commencement. It included a hunt for the opposing class' banner
and mascot which had to be hidden in a campus building, athletic
events, debates, skits and song competitions, according to
University Archivist Geoffrey Williams.
The
idea for "Clash of the Quads" was created by UAlbany's
SPIRIT Committee consisting of students, athletes, faculty
and staff.
"UAlbany
students are the heart of the University and their spirit
and enthusiasm flows throughout the campus community. As UAlbany
continues to grow and evolve, we want to be sure that University
traditions remain intact and that our students are aware of
opportunities to participate in campus activities. The 'Clash
of the Quads' is just one of many opportunities for students
to not only build traditions, but also share experiences that
we hope will become fond memories," said Bouchard.
During
the competition, the opposing teams will wear UAlbany's colors,
purple and gold. On Oct. 10, events will be held simultaneously
on Indian and State Quad lawns. Events will include: kickball,
egg on a spoon relay race, musical chairs, three-legged race,
a single and a pairs double dutch competition and a tug-of-war.
The
winning teams from State and Indian Quads from the semi-final
events on Oct. 10 will move on to the final competition the
next day. The final events will include: a tri-cycle race
(with a twist), volleyball and a seed-spitting contest.
Minerva,
the Roman goddess of wisdom and the institution�s enduring
symbol, will crown the winners during a formal presentation
on Oct. 12.
For
more information about the "Clash of the Quads,"
visit www.albany.edu/studentevents/.
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