April is here and good times as par as the eye can see as the Univeristy of Miami is hosting the 7th annual Norm Parsons, Jr Golf Tournament. Since 2017, the University of Miami Department of Wellness and Recreation (DWR) has hosted the tournament to raise money for Norman C. Parsons, Jr. Family Student Development Endowed Fund. The fund goes toward professional development for student employees at the Wellness and Recreation Center. The Wellness Center here at the U is not just a place to workout, rather, a place to develop professional skills through highly experienced staff. This foundation and the money raised from the golf tournament are essential in sponsoring the growth of student employees and jumpstarting their careers with once in a lifetime opportunities.
This year, the golf tournament will sponsor a student who has been a key member of the student development program. Marvin Cheng, an exercise physiology major in the School of Education and Human Development, has worked in the intramurals sports program as a referree, and as of fall 2023, earned the title of Intramural Supervisor. “I am truly honored to have been selected for this opportunity. At first, I considered this tournament a chance to expand my resume and social network, but now, upon being supported by the community, I feel as if I have an entire family behind me hoping for my success,” says Cheng.
The money raised will sponsor Cheng to travel to Georgia Tech and participate in a regional intramural basketball tournament where he willl have his referee skills evaluated by collegiate and certified referees. The tournament is also associated with the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) that will evaluate basketball referees for potential opportunities at higher levels. "Securing the prestigious opportunity to proudly represent the University of Miami stands as a remarkable achievement, one that transcends individual success to uplift our entire program. Marvin's selection empowers him to exhibit his talents among a diverse cohort of intramural officials nationwide, while also equipping him with invaluable insights to enrich our program and foster the growth of our officials." says Zac Bemmel, assistant director of recreational sports at DWR.
Through his time at UM, Cheng has learned how influential working at DWR has been on his career goals, “my major and position as an Intramural Supervisor don't necessarily go hand in hand, but I participate in both for the same purpose—development of my knowledge and networking abilities. I have learned how to better manage conflict through proper communication with participants, referees, and my fellow Intramural Supervisors,” he says.
The Wellness Center aims for students, like Cheng, to learn management skills that are transferable to all types of careers and provides remarkable opportunities for students with incredible work ethic. It’s not just a stroke of luck that Cheng has earned this honor, his dedication and resilence has pushed him to become the best he can be. To support Marvin Cheng and the Department of Wellness and Recreation, register for the Golf Tournament at this link.
