One of the biggest complaints of students at Texas A&M University-Commerce centers on the lack of student-geared activities within the city. True, Commerce is a small town lacking the hustle and bustle of larger cities, but the university certainly isn’t devoid of fun for students. Organizers just may change the location. This past weekend, the A&M-Commerce Outdoor Adventure program embarked on their first trip of the year, traveling to San Marcos, Texas, for a paddling excursion. The trip provided students with the opportunity to participate in an enjoyable weekend activity that not only took them outside of the city limits, but also allowed them to learn about an outdoor sport. Students were provided with all the training, transportation, and gear necessary for the voyage. “I thought it was great for people who’ve never been camping or paddling, because you learn a lot. I felt really comfortable trying everything.” graduate student Lauren Rhodes said.
The Outdoor Adventure (OA) program, a division of the Morris Recreation Center, strives to make all of their activities available to students, regardless of experience level. They aim to help students develop a love of the outdoors by providing opportunities for adventures in and out of Commerce. These include outside activities such as paddling, climbing and hiking trips, as well as activities within the city such as climbing at the 45-foot tall rock wall, located inside the MRC.
“We try for the Outdoor Adventure program to provide something for everybody, whether someone’s a complete beginner who wants to come on a trip and get the full package of quality instruction included, or if they’re more familiar with the activity and just want to rent gear and go on a trip,” Todd Grier, OA director, said.
The OA program adheres to a “challenge-by-choice” ethic, believing students should never be forced to participate in an activity against their will, but instead should be presented with many opportunities to challenge themselves and step out of their personal comfort zone. And for most students, taking a chance and participating in an OA activity proves to be highly beneficial and enjoyable.
“It changed my life,” senior Charl Blackburn, OA staff member, said. “I went on my first trip last fall with the Outdoor Adventure program to the Grand Canyon, and I loved it. They’re like my family now.” OA program provides a full spectrum of activities for students to choose from. Some, such as disc golf and indoor rock climbing, occur right here in Commerce. Others, such as paddling, outdoor climbing and hiking, provide students not only with an exciting activity, but also a chance to visit a new place. Most OA trips occur at various destinations within Texas, but some extend even further. In the past, there have been trips to various ski resorts in other states, and even to natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon. Because students may or may not possess the materials necessary for the activity offered, OA offers gear rental to all students on campus, regardless of whether it’s needed for an OA activity or for another personal excursion. Most rentals are free, and if not, the costs are significantly lower than those for purchasing or renting from another source.
“We want to help people progress in their skills so they can have a more enjoyable experience. We want to make activities as accessible and enjoyable as possible.” Todd Grier of the OA equipment rental program said.
The OA program also allows for a cultivation of lasting friendships. No matter their age, classification, or experience level, all students are welcome and encouraged to participate in any OA activity.
Upcoming OA events to watch for include backpacking and outdoor climbing trips, as well as the annual Gravity Check indoor rock climbing competition to be held in Commerce on Oct. 24. Interested students, or even those just curious about the program, are encouraged to stop by the MRC with any inquiries.