Sports Rally is one of the many clubs on campus at Salt Lake Community College seeking to unite students and spark community involvement.
From pick-up games to league play, SLCC student, founder and president of Sports Rally Jesse Valdez would like to add one more sport to the program: football.
“We have such great school spirit,” said Valdez. “We have students that want to get involved and think football would be the best asset to bring to SLCC.”
Sports Rally was created to offer SLCC students another sport alternative like tackle football. They play two seasons each academic year, including fall and spring semesters, in which they play against other colleges. The games are free for all to attend.
“I think not only will it bring unity to our players, but it would bring unity to the school as well and bring us more close together,” said Valdez. “All I would want is the school to get noticed more and see the diversity that we have.”
There are Sports Rally flyers posted around at every SLCC campus each year to get students involved in the club. The Sports Rally motto is, “It’s never too late; whether you played in high school or have never played, this is your chance.”
Valdez has met with other sports clubs to discuss ways to unite and to collaborate with as many students as possible.
Valdez plans to meet with the new college Athletic Director Kevin Dustin to see how they can work cohesively to use SLCC facilities.
“It is an on and off field situation. We have to bring everything all together, such as our jerseys, our foundation of who’s on our team. In the long run, we have to play good on the field as well,” says Valdez. “It’s a lot of serious stuff. I have to get everybody on the same page before trying to pitch this situation.”
Valdez dedicates much time and effort into making club games happen.
“It’s not all about what goes on the field. I need to get students, fans, family and friends,” said Valdez. “If we can get them out to the games, that’s what gives the school awareness and gives everyone else awareness.”
Sports Rally is willing to get together and play any sport that’s in demand. The club is open to all in the community and is free to join. Sports Rally currently has about 40 members, with a third of those members coming from various communities. The club plays every Saturday at Heartland Elementary School, 1451 W. 7000 S. in West Jordan, Utah.
For team schedules, visit the fan page at facebook.com/sportsrally. To set up games of any sport, contact the Sports Rally club at facebook.com/groups/sportsrally.
Photos by Damien Holmes
