Relief! Spikeball Season Continues Strong Following Sports Cancellation

College athletes are still reeling from the recent announcement that the Ivy League will not move forward with spring conference competition, given the worrisome trends of the ongoing pandemic. Disheartened by the news, students wonder how much longer sports will have to endure the virus’ damaging effects. 

However, not all is lost this semester. Amid the gloom and uncertainty, the Spikeball season has managed to remain unaffected by COVID-19 and will continue with spring competitions. 

“It’s more than just a game,” said captain and game coordinator Remy Miller (W '22). “Spikeball was there when I needed it the most. Quarantine hit me really hard, and the only thing that got me out of bed was knowing that I would be able to bump that yellow ball.” 

This Spikeball season has a record number of 20 teams all vying for a place in the championship, where only five will have the chance to compete for the coveted Golden Net Trophy. 

Some teams have even received sponsorships from groups such as Wellness at Penn, Bon Appétit, Penn Student Government, and the Social Planning and Events Committee, all of which have provided funding for uniforms, practice equipment, advertisement, and other general fees. 

Spikers are gearing up for the first round of matches, which are scheduled to begin in early March. Although many have difficulty balancing the fatigue of online classes and the muscle soreness of grueling late-night practices, student-athletes are willing to do whatever it takes for the game that has given them so much.