New Bouldering instructors gave new life to climbing classes and helped to give students the opportunity to create community while participating in a difficult physical activity.
Bouldering, also known as rock climbing, is a very challenging and difficult activity. Recently the Rec hired a new Climbing Wall Instructor from Colorado, Michael Wray. Wray, being from Colorado, has grown up around climbing, and looks to use his experience to improve that of the class members.
The Rec has hosted bouldering classes in the past, however, Wray has brought a new level of expertise to the rock climbing community at ACU. Wray’s bouldering classes are open to anyone. He welcomes students, faculty, and alumni of ACU.
“I really want this to be a time to build community,” Wray said, ”I couldn’t be happier to see students, faculty, and alumni coming together to climb and to get to know new people.”
Kyle Pinson, director of facility operations, would like to see students come together during the bouldering class.
“I hope that having a new instructor will help to grow the amount of students attending the bouldering class.” Pinson said.
Wray is helping to grow the bouldering community on campus, where students can go to enjoy being challenged while making friends. Students have responded in a positive manner towards the class. Many of the people attending the class are exited about the new routes that are constantly being made. The new routes allow for the class members to always have a challenge ahead of them.
The bouldering class started at the beginning of September, and is held at the Rec from 5:30-8:30 Monday nights. The class is open to any level of climber, whether you are a beginner or a experienced climber.
“I commit to being present so that I can coach climbers if they are interested,” Wray said, “Not to mention, I get the benefit of being able to climb with my fellow Wildcats, I can’t image a better “job”.
Along with bringing in a new instructor, the Rec has also brought in new equipment for the students. This includes new climbing shoes for all sizes. With good instruction, and new equipment, students are prepared for success and fun with new friends.
