Returning due to popular demand, laser tag was brought back to campus this past week. The demand for the recreational shooting sport was so high that Gaels began to line up before the designated time. Many were waiting eagerly to play after two years and by around 6:50 p.m., a few students had already played a few rounds.
Murphy Green was transformed into a small arena with camouflage tents that were divided across Murphy Green for players to hide. Music played adding a soundtrack to these fictional battles, while white fog was emitted to obscure players.
Harry Savell, a senior, was among the first students to play. He sums up laser tag best, “Laser tag, you are it.”
Pizza and light refreshments were served to hungry combatants. As soon as they were done, players quickly lined up for another round of fun. On the steps of Murphy Green, one could see the constant back and forth from the area.
The event was hosted in collaboration with GAB (Gaels Activity Board) and the CEO Club. According to the president of CEO club, Louis Porco, a double major in entrepreneurship & business management, the planning of laser tag was an exciting task for both clubs.
“It was awesome to work with GAB, they reached out to us and asked us if we could cosponsor this event,” Porco explained.
Porco happily agreed, believing it would be a good way to meet freshmen and give back to the Iona community.
For each round, players were either on the blue or red team designated by their laser guns. Signaling devices in the equipment register hits to indicate who is out. Before playing, students had to sign a consent form to ensure everyone’s safety. Unlike other recreational shooting sports like paintball, getting hit by a laser gun is completely painless. However, one must be careful when running and tumbling to get the perfect shot. Afterwards, they were instructed to follow the rules of the game. Laser tag itself is pretty simple, but the excitement comes from strategy and coordination. Figuring out when and how to attack successfully can be challenging, especially when you know the other team so well.
As one of the first events on campus, many freshmen were in attendance. Kern Flanders, who is majoring in biology, considers the Iona community to be very welcoming. Flanders thought the laser tag was cool and had a blast.
“There is always something to do on campus and people to interact with. Honestly, I have only been here for two days, but I am enjoying the experience so far. I already feel like my home,” he explained.
Fun happened all around, not just for those who were playing. Some taunted their friends, while others enjoyed looking on by the benches. The night ended with happy Gaels walking home reminiscing over what just occurred and wishing they could just play one more round.
