Intramurals at Eagle Rock School: Building Community, Skills, and Fun

At Eagle Rock School, education goes beyond the classroom. Our intramural program is a unique aspect of our holistic approach to learning, designed to bring students and staff together, promote healthy competition, and encourage a strong sense of community. Held every Wednesday morning, intramurals have been an integral part of life at Eagle Rock since our inception, offering a space where everyone can engage in fun, skill-building activities that foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and connection.

Why Intramurals Matter

Intramurals at Eagle Rock are much more than just games; they are a core part of our mission to build a supportive, inclusive community. From the moment students arrive on campus, they commit to making healthy life choices—intramurals are a natural extension of this commitment. While other clubs and activities are optional, intramurals are a required part of the Eagle Rock experience, ensuring that every member of the community, including staff, participates.

As the Human Performance and Athletics Coordinator, Mark Rutberg champions the benefits of play, reminding students and staff that the joy of movement and physical activity is something to embrace throughout life. High school students, often navigating identity and responsibility, can sometimes lose touch with the playful aspects of life. Intramurals give them a chance to reconnect with this important part of themselves, bringing them out of their heads and into a space where they can move their bodies, make friends, and simply have fun.

Whether held on our Field of Dreams on campus or in the gym during the colder months, intramurals always start with a team-building activity, followed by the sport itself, and close with a reflective discussion. The focus is never solely on competition; it’s about fostering relationships, both between students and staff and among peers. 

An Inclusive Space for All

One of the most powerful aspects of the intramural program at Eagle Rock is our commitment to inclusivity. Recognizing that every student comes with their own background, insecurities, and sometimes past traumas related to physical activity, the program is designed to meet students where they are. For some, being in a sports setting is comfortable and familiar. For others, it’s a new and potentially daunting experience. Eagle Rock aims to create a welcoming environment for everyone.

Some students might have previous experience in the sports offered, such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, or ultimate frisbee, and might step into leadership roles, helping to coach or cheer on their peers. Others may find themselves trying these activities for the first time, supported by their teammates and encouraged to take risks and grow. The goal isn’t to compete in the traditional sense, but to build confidence, have fun, and engage with one another.

What makes intramurals special is the flexibility and creativity involved. Students are encouraged to give feedback on which sports or activities they’d like to try, and the program often mixes in excursions, such as trips to an adventure park or other local parks. This variety keeps things fresh and ensures that everyone finds something they enjoy. No matter their skill or comfort level, all students are welcome and supported.

The Benefits of Playing Together

Intramurals are about more than just physical fitness. They help students improve their mental health, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and foster deeper connections with their peers and instructors. There’s something powerful about moving together as a community, and it’s this shared experience that helps students focus better in the classroom, balance their workloads, and build strong relationships outside of academic settings. 

Being active is like medicine for the mind and body. By committing a full morning each week to intramurals, Eagle Rock School demonstrates its dedication to the holistic well-being of its students. Physical health, mental health, and community health are deeply intertwined, and intramurals serve as a reminder that taking care of our bodies is key to taking care of each other. 

Intramurals at Eagle Rock speak to our ongoing commitment to supporting students holistically. For more than 30 years, this tradition of coming together in a playful, uplifting environment has helped foster some of the most tangible, memorable moments for students and staff alike. 

Whether you’re an experienced athlete or someone new to physical activity, intramurals provide a space for connection, growth, and joy. At Eagle Rock, it’s not just about the competition—it’s about building community, having fun, and taking care of one another through play. If you’re looking to join a school community that centers these values, look no further than Eagle Rock—inquire about our application process today!