There was a battle on the Canada-U.S. border this fall – and no, it wasn’t a War of 1812 re-enactment. Rather, it was a dodge ball game between Brandon University and Minot State University fought across the 49th parallel in Manitoba and North Dakota. The event was held – somewhat ironically, considering the circumstances – at the International Peace Garden.
More than 150 students from both sides participated in this second annual event, which aims to foster cross-border friendships and partnerships between the two universities, says Brandon University President Deborah Poff. David Rowland, dean of students at Brandon, says the camaraderie “reaffirms our commitment to continue to organize this event as part of our orientation for years to come.”
Brandon has yet to win the dodge ball championship. Following five series of round-robin play, Minot State managed to retain the championship title it first won in September 2011. “We’re looking forward to next year,” says Mr. Rowland, “when our students will fight to bring the title to Canada.”