The Competition is Intense

Not too soon after I arrived at Ridley Hall, I became aware of what was to become one of the highlights of the Easter term - the Annual Lawn Croquet Competition. This longstanding tradition even has a champions’ board posted in the Common Room opposite the Dining Hall. I was somewhat honored to be recruited into the tournament, an honor I quickly declined - I am no croquet master - and as I quickly discovered - neither are many of the competitors! However, having a room on the ground floor of F Staircase gave me ample opportunity to observe the many hours of practice exercised by the teams that had formed from the student body.

This is serious stuff, mind you. It is the topic of conversation at meals - the coordination of which becomes the major distraction from study as end of year essays, interviews, and exams begin to stress. And it's all in good fun.

I couldn't help but wonder though, how properly British this was - a lawn croquet tournament as the competitive sport. But again, it was perfect. The game does not require a great deal of physical prowess, endurance, or the "stuff" or our more American competitive engagements. It's not flag football on the quad, or half-court b-ball as when I was in seminary (of course there is no gym here at Ridley). It's a gentle and gentile game that allows men and women to play with and against one another. It allows people of all skill levels to make their errors and the occasional great "strike." It is in its own way, fully inclusive of anyone in this community that wanted to be engaged. I can see why it is so attractive.

It was marvelous to behold just this afternoon as the final game was being played and the championship was coming down to "match point" that nearly everyone gathered around the courtyard as a hushed tone waited on the players to make their moves. When the decisive point was scored there was, you guessed it, polite applause all around. It was a delight to behold. Soon thereafter, everyone got "back to business." Preparing essays, studying for exams, rehearsing for sermons, getting ready for interviews with prospective placement supervisors. It served its purpose.

Soon the courtyard will transform again - from a playing field into a lecture hall as a grand marquee (we call it a tent) appears for the Moule Lecture next Wednesday and for the "Leavers Ball" on the Tuesday following. You'll hear more about those events as they draw near. I fear discussing them too much yet since they signal that my time here at Ridley Hall will soon draw to a close.

So, let's just let each day come as it will.