Reindeer Games For Grown Ups

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

27 Dec 2006 04:10 PM

The other day my 2-year-old asked me what a reindeer game was. I smiled knowing that she has been obsessed with her new "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" DVD. I explained to her that the games Rudolph and his friends participated in were not unlike the ones she and her friends played during playgroup-minus the battery-operated toys. Then I started to elaborate even more (don't ask why) telling her that reindeers enjoy playing some of the same games she does at the park.

"The slide?" she asked.

"Ah, well... " I stammered. "More like tag and hide-and-seek," I answered.

"Those are reindeer games," she questioned (hey, nothing gets by this kid).

"Yes," I answered.

But, I could tell she wasn't buying it. That suspicion was confirmed when about 2 minutes later she asked: "Mommy, what are grown up games?"

Grown up games... hmmm...

Believe it or not the answer to that question is easy to find--at least in our city (which is likely where she remembered the phrase---from a TV commercial).

It's touted as a way for "big kids" (meaning people 18 years and older) to "get back in the game." It's all the rage in our community: grown ups taking part in dodgeball and kickball leagues. The program is run by the city recreation department and attracts dozens of players every week.

Most participants say they sign up because it brings memories from elementary school-recess spent with friends having a good time. The leagues provide camaraderie and a great way to burn off those extra calories---especially those holiday cookie calories.

Locally, the Midwest Unconventional Sports Association, or MUSA organizes more than 150 kickball and dodgeball teams in Minnesota and Wisconsin. During the summer, they even sponsor Big Wheels races. But, the leagues are not limited to the Midwest--there are adult kickball and dodgeball leagues throughout the country.

And don't count yourself out because you question your athletic ability. According to MUSA, everyone is welcome to play the game. If you are looking for a way to burn off of that holiday heft this may just be what you are looking for. If nothing else it's a great way to play like a kid again.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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