The RAWC is for everyone: Sports, Fun, and Connection Await UTM Students
UTM students explore diverse activities, from facilitated volleyball to competitive tri-campus leagues.
During the winter months, the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) transforms into both a scenic snowy paradise and an energetic athletic hub for the students with the help of the Recreation, Athletics & Wellness Centre (RAWC). The RAWC’s winter offerings are rooted in promoting diversity, wellness, and connection, and cater to the multifaceted needs of the UTM community.
Mark Zaragoza, coordinator of the RAWC’s sports programs, and Dylan Walter, who oversees intramurals and internal programs, responded to a series of questions to illuminate the RAWC’s initiatives for the Winter 2025 semester. Their passion and tenacity to foster an enriched environment for the students at UTM was vividly evident as they elaborated RAWC’s plans for the winter semester, recent achievements, and future goals.
The RAWC’s intramural and tri-campus leagues aim to nurture health and strengthen the sense of community through sports and recreational programs. Dylan Walters shared the key aspects of the winter semester’s intramurals, including soccer, cricket, basketball, and badminton leagues. They’ve also implemented facilitated pickleball, sitting volleyball, and badminton programs to foster inclusive opportunities with accessible programs.
Mark Zaragoza highlighted this semester’s tri-campus sports line up that encompasses volleyball, indoor soccer, basketball, indoor cricket and ultimate frisbee. Zaragoza spotlighted the anticipated Women’s Cricket team and the exhilarating hockey double-header against UTSC in February. “We’re always looking to expand opportunities for students,” he mentioned.
Cultivating a spirit of unity is the key focus of both intramural and tri-campus leagues. Walters reiterated that intramurals nurture a community for students to create strong bonds, stay active, and enjoy themselves. “Our goal is to positively impact the student experience by offering recreational sports opportunities that are accessible and enjoyable,” he stated. Zaragoza concurred this sentiment, elaborating how tri-campus sports programs encourages camaraderie and spirited rivalry. “Students form strong connections with their peers through shared experiences and teamwork. These programs go beyond the physical benefits. They create lasting friendships and memories.”
Inclusivity is embedded into the RAWC’s mission. Walters highlighted the initiatives crafted to cater to a diverse student body: for example, BIPOC-centric sports sessions, women’s only drop-ins, and queer-focused events. He further elaborated on the Sport Inclusion Ambassadors, who advocate to ensure accessible initiatives. “We want every student to feel welcome, regardless of their background or fitness level.”
“It’s about making sports a space where everyone feels they belong,” said Zaragoza, affirming the RAWC’s commitment to inclusivity by integrating barrier-free infrastructure, accessibility-centric equipment’s and equitable regulations. RAWC staff undergo specialized cultural sensitivity training to enhance respectable and supportive atmosphere for all.
The RAWC integrates technology to enhance the engagement with the UTM student body. The use of social media platforms, like Instagram, provide students with real-time updates on events, game scores, schedules, and news, while the IMLeagues platform optimizes the process of registration and communication for league members. Zaragoza underlined how adopting Microsoft Teams, a digital platform, reinforces a sense of camaraderie between players and the coaches. “Technology allows us to share updates, analyze game footage, and build a sense of community, even online.”.
Zaragoza and Walters acknowledged how student feedback plays an influential role in shaping programs at the RAWC. Feedback forms, direct engagement, and surveys all aid in evaluating opportunities for growth. Walters credited student feedback for the incorporation of innovative programs and refined operational practices. He recounted an example wherein the RAWC modified the game schedules to circumvent the reading week, an update that honored students’ academic priorities and enhance overall engagement.
Reflecting on the accomplishments of the previous year, Walters emphasized the substantial benefits the RAWC’s programs has brought to the community. “Seeing students return each semester, eager to participate, is a testament to the value of what we offer.” Both the Men’s Outdoor Soccer and Women’s Flag Football teams achieved the championship titles last fall, a proud victory celebrated by Walters. “These victories are about more than trophies. They’re about teamwork, dedication, and school spirit,” he added.
The RAWC gears up for a brighter future, focusing on fostering new leadership opportunities and enriching mentorship programs for the students. Walters alluded at bold initiatives set to redefine the RAWC’s boundaries. Furthermore, he underscored the significance of cultivating transferable skills among the UTM student-body through participation, coaching, or event management. “We want students to leave RAWC not just with memories, but with skills that will serve them in their careers and lives.”This winter, the RAWC invites UTM students to thrive through sports and recreation to embody the spirit of unity, fitness, and community. Whether playing on the court, participating in a program, or cheering from the bleachers, there’s space for everyone at RAWC. Keep up with the RAWC through their website or connect with them on Instagram at @utm_athletics.
