Recreational sport clubs at University of North Texas celebrated a season of achievements this month. From polo to climbing, gymnastics to powerlifting, student athletes showcased their talent and dedication on regional and national stages.
In polo, the UNT Polo Club clinched the championship title not once, but twice, demonstrating their dominance in the sport. Team members Vance Miller III and John Dencker were recognized as All-Stars. Dencker also received the Upchurch Memorial Sportsmanship Award for positive attitude, fairness and support for his peers on and off the field.
The UNT Climbing Club left its mark with several impressive performances. In the Men's Intermediate Boulder category, Michael Pham secured third place, while Jeamy Arizmendi claimed second place in the Women's Intermediate Boulder. Ethan Oroshiba finished fourth in the Men's Advanced Lead, while Ian Wright and Riley Quinn secured fourth and fifth place, respectively, in the Men's Intermediate Top Rope. Jeamy Arizmendi continued her success by earning second place in the Women's Intermediate Top Rope.
In UNT Powerlifting, Andrew Lutz's impressive performance landed him fourth place in the 100kg equipped division. Additionally, four other team members placed within the top 20 in their respective divisions, highlighting the talent of the powerlifting program.
UNT Esports earned a spot in the Collegiate Esports Commissioners Cup. This achievement speaks volumes about the caliber of the team, especially considering the competition includes some of the top esports athletes in the nation.
The UNT Women’s Volleyball Club and Men’s Volleyball Club traveled to Kansas City for the NCVF Volleyball Championships. On the women’s team, three players were called out as Most Valuable Player including Ali Stapp, Savannah Seldon and Akanksha Deka. In the Southern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (SIVA) Championships, Rachel Armstrong, Sydney Fleming and Shawntiel Watson were named MVPs. In men’s volleyball, Hung Nguyen and Jayden Tucker were named National’s Most Valuable Player. Anthony Poleo and Braden Lequieu were named Most Valuable Player at the SIVA Championships.
In the USA Triathlon National Championships this spring, UNT Triathlon placed in Combined Team Scores and Women’s Team Score.
Other teams competing in nationals included UNT’s Equestrian Club, Disc Golf Club, Women’s Gymnastics and Wrestling.
There are 37 sports clubs offered through the Division of Student Affairs Recreational Sports. The success of rec sports underscores the commitment of student athletes and the support of the university community.