On Friday, Sept. 25, Smith celebrated its second annual Field Day, bringing together students, staff and faculty for some friendly competition on Burton lawn. The event’s festive atmosphere set off the start of the weekend with games, trivia and raffle prizes for participants.
The eight teams were a mix of students, faculty and staff, each with their own unique names and mascots, such as the Wurzarus Walruses and the Goldilocks team matching in bear-themed headbands. The teams competed in four events: cornhole, name that tune, Smith trivia and a perilous egg and spoon relay race. Between the games, a table offered snacks, Senda Bear spread the Smith spirit and participants created a poster of all the things they love about Smith.
Once the events ended, handmade picture frames were awarded to teams that demonstrated the best sportsmanship, enthusiasm, trivia knowledge and more. Then the raffle winners were drawn and received donated gifts from several on campus organizations such as baked goods baskets, Smith swag, Botanic Garden tote bags, a movie night basket from the Office of Student Engagement, and a collection of books put together by staff.
Students, staff and faculty celebrated their victories together, smiling for team photos to then put inside the picture frame trophies.
“It’s just a joyous occasion,” said Eleanora Bennett ‘29, Student Government Association representative at the event. “The teams are always so connected. I think [Field Day] helps create that connection… These teams really have fun and get to know each other.”
Field Day emphasizes the importance of community at Smith, not just within the student body or staff, but between everyone at the college.
Caroline Bertrand, Financial Executive Assistant and one of the managers of Field Day, said, “I really enjoy that it is an opportunity for the three groups [students, faculty, and staff] to get together in a setting that isn’t typical. It’s not you sitting with your professors in class or going into an administrative office for assistance. You’re out here, all having fun, because who doesn’t want to have fun on a nice day?”
For those who missed the event, Smith Field Day will return next fall with games and prizes for all. But in the meantime, there are plenty of other ways to find connection on campus through competitive fun. This Saturday, Oct. 3, New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference play continues for fall sports. Soccer hosts Wellesley College at 12 p.m., Volleyball hosts Wheaton College at 1 p.m. and Westfield State University at 5 p.m. and Field Hockey hosts Clark University at 3 p.m. The fall semester line up of “Get Fit” classes also continues with pilates, spin, yoga and more.
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