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Recreation options keep expanding for students at the University of North Georgia's (¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ) Blue Ridge Campus. A basketball and pickleball court recently opened, adding to the walking trail that is on the edge of campus.

Dr. Nathan Price, interim executive director of the Blue Ridge Campus and associate professor of political science and international affairs, has regularly taken part in bocce and pickleball tournaments with students.

"There is a highly concerning national trend in which college students are increasingly reporting feelings of isolation and loneliness on college campuses throughout the country," Price said. "I am excited that ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ's administration and Student Government Association have invested in developing communal spaces across our five campuses that promote students socializing and engaging in recreational activities while on campus."

John Ponders, a sophomore from Ellijay, Georgia, pursuing an associate degree in business administration, appreciates the way Price and others on campus join in the fun.

"It's a small campus, so you have a personal relationship with all the faculty here and all the other students. It's great to know that it's more than just a salary or job for them," Ponders said. "It's their passion, and it's nice to know there are faculty here who care about me and what I have planned for the future. It's amazing to be able to get outside of academics for a little while and have fun and enjoy your time with one another."

Luke Rice, a sophomore from Turtletown, Tennessee, pursuing an associate degree in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in math and natural sciences, also thrives on the extracurricular activities.

"It makes college a lot more enjoyable experience than I ever thought it could be. It helps break up the classes," Rice said. "We get professionalism from the professors, and we get to have fun with them too. It's a nice way to be well-rounded."

Price is grateful for the new venue to engage students.

"Our Student Government Association has already begun planning new events and traditions that incorporate these new spaces. We are even talking about events that engage our recent ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ alumni," Price said. "Each of these traditions establishes a culture and identity that hopefully attracts students to ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ and retains our crew that is already here."

Nic Klinge, associate director of well-being in Campus Recreation and Wellness, is glad to be able to offer these outlets.

"It's another big community-building aspect," Klinge said. "These are opportunities to engage classmates outside the classroom."

Students also have the option to check out hiking equipment for free, including tents, backpacks and sleeping bags from the Blue Ridge Campus, as well as from other ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ campuses. They may email outdooradventures@ung.edu to inquire about checking out the gear.