Organized by Dr. Brian Maraj, a professor of Kinesiology and our PERCS group (Physical Education and Recreation Council of Students), the fourth annual Maraj-a-thon is underway in the Van Vliet Centre. This year's event boasts to be an outstanding sign of hope and holiday spirit. The Maraj-a-thon is an eight-hour squash marathon in honor of three of the faculty's alumni, Terry Tenove, Brett Babcock and Katie Burgess, who suffered from injuries.
"This event is really to honor students in our faculty who have suffered spinal cord injuries". Says Maraj, "I was teaching a class in 2010 when I learned of a former student of mine who had suffered a spinal cord injury. On the last day of classes I thought that it would be good to do something to lift his spirit. The event was called doing something I love for someone we love".
The event that Maraj hosted in December of 2010 raised funds for the free2BMe program, a program that is hosted by the Steadward Centre, a facility in the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation. "We have done this event every year since 2010 and every year we have found out about more individuals who have had things happen to them. Brett Babcock was injured while training for the Olympic gymnastics events and Katie Bridges was in a snowmobiling accident four months before Brett's accident. We play in honor of them and to raise their spirits as well".
"It's not about the money we raise, say's Maraj, even though we are grateful for companies such as the Volvo of Edmonton who has donated, along with a few other local companies in our community. The show of support by students, the faculty and other individuals within the university is what makes this a great event."
The Free2BMe program provides physical activity and fitness opportunities for children and youth from 4 to 19 years of age. "The program helps children and teens with different impairments and disabilities work on their physical literacy and physical development". Says Phil Krol, APA Consultant at the Steadward Centre. "It is about having kids perform physical activity to help increase their quality of life". Free2BMe assists in developing skills and knowledge towards health and wellness while asserting autonomy and independence in a fun and social environment.
Children and teens attend the program by term. "One individual could come one night per week or they could do a group program in the evenings". Says Krol; "There is also a community transition that we are working with that helps youth and teens in their local communities so that they can exercise closer to home". Medical referrals are not necessary to participate in the program.
Eight hours of squash seems to be a lot for some, but for Dr. Maraj, it's nothing compared to what other people have to go through. "It's all about doing something we love for someone we love". Says Dr. Maraj. I love playing squash and I love playing it for a good cause, for people that I love. It makes it all really worth while".
If you would like more information about the program or would like to support the cause, please visit: www.steadwardcentre.ualberta.ca