The loud buzzing of a shot clock, banner-lined ceilings, and roaring crowds—this is the image in our heads when thinking about varsity athletics. Though my exchange with Curtis Atkinson, TRU’s very own Director of Athletics and Recreation, went far deeper than game day excitement. Curtis dove into the heart of TRU athletics and expressed just how deep the love of the game goes.

Atkinson explained to me what sets TRU apart, not just in the way we support our athletes, but also from a competition standpoint. He shared how his department supports athletes both on and off the courts and how the university academically supports everyone. From the court to the classroom, Curtis made it very clear the WolfPack membership doesn’t end at the buzzer.

Our conversation did get emotional; we spoke briefly on the passing of a TRU student-athlete. Curtis talked fondly and proudly and expressed a heartfelt thanks to the TRU community. It is a heart-wrenching reminder that yes, the sport is there; it is happening, but this team is about so much more: a sense of belonging, a family away from home, lifelong bonds.

You don’t need to be an athlete to tune in to this episode. Listen in and get an understanding of how easy it is for TRU students to participate in FREE campus recreation classes such as yoga, zumba, and intermural sports!

Plug in to this conversation and get a whole new perspective on TRU athletics and recreation

CITATIONS (audios)

GamingSoundEffects (2015) YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWO3f9GpOSo (Accessed: 08 March 2025). 

Ikoliks (2020) One Last Breath Song by Ikoliks, Artlist. Available at: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/one-last-breath/41673 (Accessed: 08 March 2025). 

Snail Music (no date) YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXFlkEW3GQ0 (Accessed: 08 March 2025).