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The University of Arkansas at Monticello Alpha Omega (AO) Intramural Flag Football Team recently competed in the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) Region IV Flag Football Tournament. The event, held from November 1-3 at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, brought together top teams from colleges across the region, including schools from Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

For the second consecutive year, the UAM AO Intramural Flag Football Team earned a spot at the regional tournament by winning the UAM Intramurals Flag Football Championship. This year at the regional tournament, the team narrowly missed a playoff position. Members of the team included Jeffrey “JT” England, Elbert Handie III, DeMeco Harvey, James Martin, James Perry (captain), Cam Rhodes and Connor Whitworth, along with Coach Justin Howard, campus minister for the Missionary Baptist Student Fellowship at UAM.                                                 

“The trip to Texas A&M was a huge success for both our team and UAM,” Howard said. “We had the opportunity to compete against teams from larger schools, which was a great experience. We're grateful that UAM has such a strong intramural program, which not only provided us with opportunities to play but also supported us in advancing to the regional level. Facing tougher competition really pushed our team to adapt and work together more effectively. Competing on the turf under the lights was an incredible opportunity, and securing a win there is something they will never forget.”

Julie Gentry, director of Recreation and Intramurals at UAM, highlighted the value of participating in team sports in college, stating, “UAM Intramurals offer students more than just the chance to play sports. The competitions create opportunities to build relationships and develop essential life skills. Students often form bonds with people they might not normally interact with, and by the end, they’re sitting together in class or talking in the cafeteria. Beyond the competition, they’re learning teamwork, communication, camaraderie and leadership, which are invaluable both in their personal lives and future careers. Whether they’re experienced athletes or new to the game, the focus is on being part of something, working together toward a common goal and just enjoying the experience.”

UAM Intramurals offers current UAM students, faculty and staff the opportunity to participate in more than 20 intramural leagues at no cost. Rules and regulations regarding eligibility and sportsmanship are designed to ensure fun and equitable participation. Sports offered include basketball, bowling, disc golf, fishing, flag football, pickleball, pool, sand volleyball, soccer, softball, table tennis, tennis, ultimate frisbee, volleyball and more.

For more information about UAM Intramurals, contact Julie Gentry at gentry@uamont.edu or 870-460-1046.