Putting academic pursuits temporarily to one side, almost
3000 Otago University students donned team colours and
cheered themselves into a frenzy at Logan Park yesterday.
The annual Orientation sports day saw about 2800 students
compete against college rivals in volleyball, touch rugby,
netball and soccer.
Each hall of residence and college accommodation unit rallied
lodgers with custom clothing, mascots and chants.
A locals side comprising students of private Dunedin
dwellings was organised through the Otago University
Students' Association and those living in various flatting
situations were also invited to compete.
Otago University director of accommodation services James
Lindsay said about 3600 students were invited to take part in
the annual tournament, which had an emphasis on team-building
rather than victory.
"There are no winners or losers. It's just a fun Orientation
event where everybody can take part and it's a good start to
the week."
Mr Lindsay said the sports tournament had not changed much in
its 15 years.
Barbecue tents, a medical centre and university club and
society marquees lined Logan Park from 1.30pm when games
began.
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