By Cory Granholm

National Recreational Sports & Fitness Day, or Rec Day, is a celebration of NIRSA’s founding date—February 22, 1950. On that day, NIRSA’s founding father Dr. William Wasson shared his research regarding collegiate recreation—compiled in “A Comparative Study of Intramural Programs in Negro Colleges”—with 20 intramural directors representing 11 Historically Black Colleges & Universities. Those 11 institutions formed the National Intramural Association, which would eventually evolve into NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation. Read all about the Association’s history on the NIRSA website and learn why February 22 is a day for celebration!

Every year, Rec Day festivities grow as NIRSA members continue to find new and exciting ways to celebrate on their campuses. The occasion offers a fantastic opportunity to get active and promote lifelong habits of health and wellbeing. You can even purchase personalized Rec Day shirts from Club Colors to get dressed up for the occasion. Check out the Rec Day 2015 recap for ideas for your 2016 event—and make sure to share with us how you plan on celebrating!

Throughout the month of February 2016, the @nirsalive Instagram account will be posting photos showcasing all the great ways our amazing members plan to celebrate #RecDay 2016. Are you going to hit the free weights, play a pick-up basketball game with friends, or take part in a Zumba party? Send NIRSA Communications Coordinator Nazifa Islam a photo of you participating in an awesome rec activity and help inspire fellow NIRSA members to make the most of National Recreational Sports & Fitness Day!

For more information about Rec Day 2016, please contact NIRSA Creative Director Cory Granholm.