University of Idaho Greek life concentrated its competitive energy to soccer in the name of charity for Kappa Delta sorority’s annual philanthropy event, Shamrock.
The Shamrock soccer tournament gave students an opportunity to spend time with one another and give back to multiple charity organizations.
Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA) and Boost Collaborative were the organizations for which the proceeds of the philanthropy went toward, said Rachael Wilkinson, vice president for community service at Kappa Delta. PCAA aims to protect children from abuse during youth and ensure a safe upbringing. Boost Collaborative is a local organization out of Pullman that supports families and children with disabilities.
Nicole Etchemendy | Argonaut
Referee, Bailey Scrimsher, signals for a player to throw the ball in while his teammate runs up beside him prepared to receive it at the Shamrock soccer tournament put on by Kappa Delta.
Both of the organizations contribute to the sorority’s main platform, promoting confidence in others, Wilkinson said.
By putting together a team and showing up at Guy Wicks Field, teams from all backgrounds contributed to the success of this event.
As the players flooded into Guy Wicks Field that morning, a sense of community was present almost immediately.
“I think it contributes a lot to the community because it’s an event I can go to and it has a relaxing environment, but it can also get really competitive depending on how much people get into it,” said Summer Burton, a member of Kappa Delta. “Most people who come really want to be here. I look forward it every year.”
Skyler Wilburn, a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity (FIJI), said Shamrock is one of the philanthropies he and his brothers at FIJI look forward to every year.
“I think this is a great thing for the Greek community,” Wilburn said. “There is a lot of negative connotations towards the Greek community, so having events like these is a really big positive step in the right direction.”
More than 20 teams participated in the games that day. Some came in full soccer attire, others showed up in sleep wear, a few singlets were spotted running around on the field.
The Kappa Delta chapter from Washington State University even came to Moscow and took part in the friendly competition.
“I’ve seen four years of Shamrock,” said Anna Adruzak, president of Kappa Delta at WSU. “It’s cool to see how they put on their event and how it all comes together. It’s really a fun way to bring everyone together. It’s a Sunday morning, and it’s nice to see everyone wanting to participate and be here.”
FIJI came out on top in the men’s bracket for the day and the Kappa Delta chapter from Washington State University was the champion of the women’s bracket. But the overall winner of Shamrock was Delta Sigma Phi fraternity after the donations were counted up.
Nicole Etchemendy
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