Ever since his freshman year, Austin Davis has been an important member of Towson’s Mens Ultimate Frisbee team both on and off the field. In the following interview, he explains how what was initially just a way to stay fit and active quickly turned into something more.
● What do you do?
“I’m the treasurer and a member of Pandemonium.” Yes, that’s the team name. For good reason, too! These guys are like a mixture of Jackie Chan and Kung-fu Panda.
● How can someone else get involved with this?
“Easily! If you see us throwing around campus (we always are) come up to us and we can fill you in.” Their practices are 9:00pm – 11:00pm on Tuesday and Thursday, and 4 – 6pm Wednesday, along with interest meetings at the beginning of each semester. “They don’t make cuts, so all are welcome!”
● What tips do you have for people who want to do what you do?
“Just put in a little effort – when I began I could barely throw and now it’s almost second nature.” Davis believes that it’s the best sport to pick up because of how similar it is to soccer, basketball and lacrosse. “I tell everyone to just work on their throws. The rest comes naturally.”
● How has this created connections for you personally and academically?
“Well many guys and girls from the women’s team have become good friends of mine. And being the multi-faceted team that we are, the networking potential is [immense]. Our alum stay in touch with job offers within their businesses, along with current members working together to help one another with projects or events outside of Ultimate.”
● Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
“Hopefully working in a major city planning public transportation, and still able to run around and play Ultimate. The cool thing about this sport is the hundreds of casual to professional leagues that are around the country.” Davis says he’s been on teams where he’s the only one who hasn’t graduated college with a full-time job and a family. “With luck I’ll be able to balance it all as well.”
● What do you want people to take away from this interview?
“To go out and get involved! I approached many of the guys on the team as a clueless freshman, and it was one of the best choices I’ve made in college. The people you connect with in [any] extracurricular [activity] don’t only make great friends, but they can also help open doors later in life.”