Lander University physical education majors captured first place in the recent Superstars competition of the South Carolina Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (SCAHPERD).
The 98th annual SCAHPERD conference, held in Myrtle Beach, brought students from colleges and universities across South Carolina together to test both their knowledge and skills. Designed as college bowl-style challenge, participants competed in a variety of high-energy events, including beach games and academic challenges, to showcase what they have learned through their degree programs.
The winning award for Lander’s team marked the inaugural presentation of a new traveling trophy — a handmade surfboard engraved with the winning institution’s name — to launch a tradition for the competition.
The winning Lander team included Cooper Strange, of Greenville; Sophie Shortall, of Mauldin; Michael Ashley, of Donalds; Saudi Gavin, of Dorchester; Sam Mueller, of Rainsville, Alabama; and Ethan Syswerda, of Greenwood. The group competed under the direction of Dr. Mengyi Wei, a Lander assistant professor of physical education and exercise science.