The Making of a Pack Leader Through Sports Programs

When Isaac Loydpierson joined his fraternity’s intramural volleyball team in the fall of 2013, he had no idea he was taking the first step in his college intramural championship career. Now a senior studying Electrical Engineering, Isaac looks back on his time with Sports Programs and credits his teammates with helping to shape the leader he is today.

As an Aquatics Program Assistant for University Recreation, Isaac is no stranger to responsibility. Running the swim lesson program, pairing clients with instructors and ensuring they have a premier experience requires constant dedication and commitment. However, obtaining this position did not happen overnight; it was the product of four years on competitive intramural teams, learning the importance of leadership as well as teamwork.

Isaac began his Sports Programs career as a way to socialize with his brothers in Sigma Phi Epsilon. For two years he played on the fraternity’s volleyball team, and both years they took the win on Champ Night.  His junior year he joined his fraternity’s swim team and again claimed first place for several events there. This past fall, as captain of his team “Half Fast”, Isaac led his teammates to the championship swim meet for their final victory together as a group.

Each year, it was more than the championship title that kept Isaac coming back to the competition. “Working together and really bonding with your teammates is an amazing feeling. Knowing your teammates have your back and knowing you can rely on them when you’re not having a great day and have them rely on you when you’re not having a great day; it’s awesome to have that [support] there.”

This past February, Isaac and his fellow Club Swim members-some of which are on his intramural swim team-took their race from the pool and onto Hillsborough Street for the Krispy Kreme Challenge. Aside from waking up before sunrise and running in 27 degree weather,  the swimmers distinguished themselves by running in nothing but their speedos and the words “Club Swim” painted across all the members. Isaac won Day 19 of the #PACKINACTION 30 Day Photo Challenge by posting a photo of his team on Instagram.

Through his active involvement in Club Swim, Intramural Sports and his work with the Aquatics Program, Isaac embodies the healthy lifestyle represented by #PACKINACTION on a daily basis. Over the course of four years, Isaac’s success on the court and in the pool has translated to his growth as an individual. From a quiet freshman into a team captain, Isaac’s time with Sports Programs helped him to branch out in more than one area of his life. “I grew up with [Sports Programs]. They really pushed me to become more of a leader.”

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