Students who have resided within the Eden Prairie School District throughout their school years can most likely recall playing pinguard in their elementary gym classes, then continuing to play in almost every grade up to the high school. This seems to have sewn the seeds for EPHS intramural pinguard, which has gained a cult-like following from players and supporters alike. The 2008 Winter Intramural Pinguard roster boasts a staggering 18 teams participating, all with 10-14 players each. “There is really no one type of kid who plays pinguard. Everyone and anyone plays,” said sophomore John Moen, a member of team Irish Green. Team names derived from the t-shirt colors that are mandatory for players to wear to all games, range from Black to Heliconia.
Games, held every Tuesday, last for 30 minutes and garner in a spirit of fierce, yet friendly, rivalries and competition between all of the teams. “Every time I play, I grab the bull by the horns, but I always write my will first,” said Moen. Many pinguard players are known for being emotionally invested in their teams. By flinging foam balls at the opposing team and their respected pins, players are able to release energy and aggression to gain pride and excitement, all with a hearty helping of teamwork. While the occasional injury may occur, it is seen by a hazard of the trade by the players.
Most Pinguard players have trouble finding something, if anything, wrong with the game. “Pinguard is the greatest game the world has ever seen,” said Moen. Despite the glorious victories and the crushing defeats handed out every 30 minutes each Tuesday, it appears that Pinguard has gained the momentum to hold its own in the EPHS intramural world.
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