ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y., May 29, 2012 — It wasn’t a bird or a plane flying through the air in Ellicottville last month. It was the St. Bonaventure men’s rugby team.
Coming off a 15-2 season where they climbed to 10th in the national rankings, the team tested themselves at Holiday Valley’s Sky High Adventure Park.
“I can’t think of a better way to conclude our season and school year than to visit Sky High Adventure Park and enjoy the natural beauty of Western New York,” said Clarence Picard, head coach since 2006. “We are lucky to have such a unique facility so close to campus where we can try something new and come together as a team.”
Holiday Valley’s Sky High Adventure Park offers a variety of challenges for the entire family. A series of platforms, bridges and zip lines cover four wooded acres between Holiday Valley’s ski slopes.
One of the biggest challenges participants face is their own fears. Although safety is a top priority, several adventurers had to take a proverbial leap of faith before beginning the course.
“I have to admit, I was scared at first,” said Kevin McCorry, a junior journalism major and club president. “But everyone was encouraging me and once I took that first step my fears vanished and I had a great time.”
The platforms, built in the trees, are connected by a variety of bridges offering physical and mental challenges. From spinning logs, to hanging chunks of wood, to narrow suspension wires, each obstacle requires strategy and balance more than strength.
“This was definitely one of the best experiences I’ve had at St. Bonaventure,” said captain Alex Brussard, a junior management major. “I can’t think of a better way to commemorate our season than to spend time with my teammates, challenge ourselves mentally, and just have a lot of fun.”
For more information, safety regulations, or to make reservations, call 716-699-HIGH or visit www.holidayvalley.com.
About the University: Inspired for more than 150 years by the Catholic Franciscan values of individual dignity, community inclusiveness, and service, St. Bonaventure University cultivates graduates who are confident and creative communicators, collaborative leaders and team members, and innovative problem solvers who are respectful of themselves, others, and the diverse world around them.