Dear Friends:

When it comes to opportunities for recreation and intramurals on a college campus, there has never been a better time to be a Texas Longhorn. The 2009 Newsweek-Kaplan College Guide clearly echoes this sentiment by recognizing UT RecSports as the top collegiate recreation program in the country. While this is indeed high praise, and in my biased opinion well deserved, it presents both opportunities and challenges.

We began the 2009–10 academic year with our 19th annual Fall Kickoff, where 50 full-time staff and 1,000 student employees were invited to come together to focus on fulfilling the organization’s mission of “committing to excellence and exceeding expectations.” The meeting stressed the importance of each individual’s role and how it takes everyone working together to realize the organization’s full potential. Fittingly, a highlight of this year’s Kickoff was the presentation of endowed scholarships to five outstanding student employees. Read inside about the donors and recipients of these prestigious awards.

Additionally, this edition highlights the evolution of the student worker and volunteers who are, without question, the lifeblood of the organization. Their outstanding service to RecSports makes it possible for the programs to accrue more the 3.5 million hours of participation each year. With more than 90 percent of undergraduates (and 93 percent of freshmen) participating annually, it is clear that the Division’s achievements are a direct result of the dedicated service of these extraordinary students.

RecSports’ partnership with students has entered its 93rd year and will continue to be vital to all future endeavors. This partnership, along with your support and participation, has made it possible for RecSports to achieve such noteworthy national status. Learn more about opportunities to participate and please continue to show your support by staying in touch, visiting campus, stopping by Gregory Gym or dropping us an e–mail. We always look forward to meeting old friends and making new ones.

Best Wishes,