Move-in days for colleges are right around the corner. Summer break is drawing to a close, and soon classes will be underway. For some, school is already old hat, and students are ready to get back to it. For others, the freshmen especially, there might be some nerves and anxiety building about the upcoming experience.
If you are a student leader, coach, or advisor for an athletic team or school club, you know how important it is to make sure the freshman feel welcome and part of the team. Western North Carolina has a number of great team-building options that will help your freshman and other students bond over fun experiences. Here are a few ideas for your club or team.
Five Team Building Ideas for College Sports Teams and Clubs
1) Take a Hike
Western North Carolina has some of the best hiking on the East Coast. From short, beautiful loop trails to rugged and rewarding backcountry treks, you can find it all in our area. Here are a few team-building hikes convenient to Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College:
- Lower and Upper Long Branch, Little Savanah, and Gribble Gap Loop: Just shy of five miles, this hike provides amazing views of WCU and the Smokys.
- Stecoah Gap Via the Appalachian Trail: Spend some time on the famous AT and see some incredible views with this six-mile loop.
- Bartram Falls Trail: This challenging five-mile out-and-back is incredibly difficult, but the reward is seeing a stunning waterfall up close.
- Lakeshore Trail and Tunnel: This three and a-half-mile out-and-back starts on an abandoned road with a tunnel. Your team will bond by chanting together inside the tunnel and hearing the tunnel return the chant.
There are countless other areas perfect for hiking and bonding on the trail.
2) Go Whitewater Rafting
Our part of North Carolina is one of the few places in the South with whitewater rafting readily available. The Nantahala Outdoor Center provides incredible whitewater tours:
“With full or half-day trips and six different rivers to choose from, NOC offers a wide range of trips and packages for any skill level and adventure for all ages. Professionally trained guides are experts at providing skilled instruction, knowledge, and fun!”
You have to work together when you’re in the water to stay in the boat and get down the river. Your team will inevitably bond in the river.
3) Zip Through the Trees
In addition to fighting the rapids in the river, you can zip through the trees and see the Great Smoky Mountains from a completely unique perspective.
“Soar high above the trees with our signature Mountaintop Zip Line! Perched on the rim of the Nantahala Gorge, guests glide over 350 feet above the Nantahala River below, with spectacular 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala Gorge.”
4) Take a Train
Based in charming Bryson City, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad takes passengers from downtown to picturesque Fontana Lake, where you’ll enjoy stunning views from the seat of an old-timey steam engine. Time traveling through the most beautiful part of the state is sure to help your team or club bond together.
5) Experience Tactical Laser Tag and GellyBall
Laser Tag
Laser Tag has completely changed from what you might remember. From a previous article:
“Laser tag has evolved in the best of ways. Have you ever wished to experience the action from your favorite video game firsthand? Embark in combat with a variety of weapon modes and character roles. You’ll never want to be stuck behind a screen again after you’ve added team and individual objectives, as well as scenarios like Battle Royale with shifting storm damage.”
You won’t believe how much more fun laser tag has become!
GellyBall
“GellyBall ammo is 90% water, biodegradable and non-toxic, containing no paint or stain.” – GellyBall.com
One of the most thrilling new games, GellyBall, is quickly gaining recognition. Beginning in Texas, GellyBall has since spread throughout the country and the world. In fact, there are over 800 GellyBall sellers spread throughout 22 countries. The rapid expansion of GellyBall shows that this game has something special to offer.
The blasters are accurate and intuitive, so it’s easy to learn how to play, and you’ll likely find your team won’t want to stop!
Elite Action Gaming Brings Team Bonding To You
While most of these activities require you to travel with your team, Elite Action Gaming brings laser tag and GellyBall to you. We can set up outside or indoors, so weather doesn’t have to be a concern. If you have a team that needs to bond, reach out to our team at Elite Action Gaming today!
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