Games, Green Space, and Good Vibes

On a cool, drizzly Friday morning around 10 a.m. on April 25th, Madi and I arrived at Clawson-Burnley Park in Boone, NC — a local green space along the Boone Greenway Trail. The peaceful morning air was filled with the sound of birds chirping and the soft crunch of gravel from people enjoying early walks and runs.

We set up games in a grassy area near the park’s pavilions, giving ourselves a backup plan in case the weather took a turn. Thanks to our partnership with the Recreation Management Association (RMA), several club leaders joined us to help with setup and support throughout the event. Brookshire Park was the perfect choice: it’s accessible, familiar to students, and directly connected to campus by public transportation.

We brought a fun lineup of outdoor games, including 9 Square, KanJam, Spikeball, and Chippo. Students trickled in throughout the day — some between classes, others stopping by with friends when they had a free moment. We even hosted a quick 9 Square tournament, and the winners walked away with some of our remaining Hydro Flasks as prizes.

While many participants were already familiar with Brookshire Park, this outing offered a refreshing reminder of just how close a meaningful outdoor experience can be. Especially during the pressure of finals season, the opportunity to step outside the campus bubble — even just for a game or two — can be a powerful way to reset and reconnect.

With support from the National Park Trust, events like this one are part of a broader effort to get students outside, promote wellness, and spark deeper appreciation for public green spaces. Whether it’s a national park or a local trail, these moments of connection with nature are essential, and they often begin just a short walk or bus ride away.