In-depth analysis: soccer intramurals

Travis Nguyen/Photo Editor

As intramurals around campus kick off, the soccer intramurals in particular took off with immense interest. 

As of Sept. 17, intramurals for some leagues have begun. The very first sport that started was competitive soccer, which consists of 16 teams of seven players who play every week that subsequently proceed to play-offs. Not only was competitive soccer the first sport to start off, it was also the most popular choice amongst student athletes on IMleagues.com registration. After the team sign-ups opened on Sept. 8., the league was full within two days. 

Out of numerous teams that have attempted to apply for a spot within the competitive league, only 16 teams got the spot which was given on a first come, first served basis. However, there are currently over ten squads on the waitlist, which is used to replace any teams that drop out or get disqualified from the league. 

Shortly after the league reached its 16-team capacity, McMaster Intramurals sent an email to all participants regarding safety protocols and the waitlists that have been racking up over the past couple of days. They stated that due to the lack of resources and the facilities that are currently operating, there won’t be any opportunity for the organization to accept more teams into the leagues, while also reiterating that it is necessary for all registered teams to confirm their participation or else they’ll get replaced. 

There aren’t currently any plans to expand the league sizes, which is why confirmed participation is vital for those who remain interested in partaking. According to an email from the McMaster Intramurals organization, this participation confirmation will guarantee a spot in the league. 

Speaking to one of the registered players for the upcoming intramurals season, Aidan Matthew, a second-year student studying computer engineering, spoke about the registration period as well as the excitement that he and his team poses just before the season premiere. 

“I am surprised that the registrations filled up so fast, as there was no marketing/advertising for IM leagues at the time of registration. However, my friends told me about the website so I signed up as soon as I could and got in,” explained Matthew. 

On the topic of the upcoming season and his thoughts, Matthew did not hide his exhilaration.

“I am very hyped to finally be on campus, I’ve been looking forward to this for a while. My first year was entirely virtual so I am happy to finally be around, and to play soccer while meeting new people,” said Matthew. 

While there may not be any space left for any new teams in competitive leagues anymore, players can still choose to register as free agents here. As a free agent, they can get drafted by any of the participating teams if there’s a shortage in athletes at any time. The competitive soccer league is set to run until the middle of November, where it’ll end as the weather gets less suitable for outdoor sports.