posted September 23, 2011
Brandon, MB — On Sunday, September 18, more than 100 students from Brandon University (BU) and from Minot State University (MSU) literally met on the 49th parallel for the inaugural Battle on the Border — a dodgeball match. To forge a bond between the two universities as well as to inspire school spirit, the students from each school met at the International Peace Garden to play the best out of five games. With both mascots and Presidents cheering on their university, energy and daring were evident throughout the afternoon.
“It was great fun and a good cross-border bonding exercise. While there was some healthy competitiveness, there were also new friendships established. We have already decided to make this an annual event,” said Dr. Deborah Poff, Brandon University’s President and Vice-Chancellor.
The game took place on the International Peace Garden’s west lawn, near the Peace Tower. The teams faced each other on either side of the 49th parallel. The sky was cloudy and it was windy, but the sun presided over the action for the most of the games.
“What was particularly noteworthy about this final orientation event was that it was inclusive, bringing together participants from all years and faculties from both institutions,” said David Rowland, Dean of Students at BU. “This great initiative has every indication that it will grow in years to come.”
The games were lively and instigated teamwork on both sides of the action. This event launched what could become one of the greatly anticipated highlights of the academic year at both institutions.
“Minot State students were excited to have an opportunity to not only see the International Peace Garden (some, for the first time), but to also build some camaraderie between Minot and Brandon. The event has created a lot of buzz on campus, and Battle on the Border will serve to kick out Homecoming Week starting on Monday,” said Heather Stroupe-Smith, the Residence Life Coordinator at MSU.
After winning three of the four games, the Battle on the Border trophy will be displayed at MSU until next September, when the 2012 teams from both BU and MSU face off again in the International Peace Garden.
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For more information, please contact:
Joanne F. Villeneuve
Communications
Brandon University
270 – 18th Street
Brandon, MB R7A 6A9
Tel. 204-727-9762
Contact
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- communications@brandonu.ca
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