WORCESTER, Mass. – On Wednesday, July 12 the Worcester State University Wellness Center housed the Annual Massachusetts Association for Recreational Sports (MARS) State Workshop, as fitness, facilities, intramural and recreational program professionals, including students and vendors across Massachusetts came together for the event.

After registration check in, and a light breakfast amongst colleagues the day started with some opening remarks Worcester State's Fitness Center Manager and host chair, Dean Bowen.

 "This strong State Association is engaged in providing the best to our constituents," mentioned Bowen.  "We truly enjoy gathering to learn from each other every year."

The Association provides a great deal of support directed toward our students, offering a student geared track throughout the day. The sessions included effective communication, hiring practices, National Intramural Recreation Sports Association (NIRSA) 101 and much more.

"Keeping the future leaders in the recreation field involved is crucial to maintaining our stake and importance in higher education," said Bowen.  "Recreation centers are now being seen for more than meets the eye of 'keeping students busy and active', but also acting as recruitment-admission tools, building a sense of pride, community and ways to engage the alumni."

The day concluded with a comprehensive business meeting discussing upcoming event, conferences, and other association news. The attendees then gathered off campus for a social.

MARS is a non-profit organization that serves colleges, universities, and other not-for-profit recreation programs educational programs, experiences and opportunities that allow for the development of quality recreational programs, facilities, and services for diverse populations.