PirateQ 
Community members driving by the Pensacola State College track at 8:00 a.m. on Sept. 21 to grab a coffee to kick-start the weekend may have done a double take as they witnessed 16 teams in different company and organization T-shirts stretching and warming up. This was only the start of an Olympic-style, co-ed team competition that celebrates health and wellness in the workplace while emphasizing teamwork, communication, team building and fun.
Events included challenges like the new Split Mug Race, Bucket Challenge, Dodge Ball, Frisbee Chaos and Obstacle Course. To compete in all events, teams must consist of 20-32 members (at least six females), and the Games are open to all local companies. Participants must be at least 18 years old and regular employees; employees’ spouses are allowed to participate (up to 50% of a team’s roster).
The PSC Pirates made a good showing at the event, with two teams totaling 42 participants who were a mix of staff, faculty and administration from multiple campuses. The Pirates earned the coveted Spirit of the Games Award, for their hospitality, helpfulness, team spirit and overall good sportsmanship throughout the day; PSC placed fourth for large companies, overall. Several team members placed in six individual challenges: Crazy Raft Relay, Eggsecutive Toss, Hot Shot, Hula Hoop It Up, Vandy Football and Wheelbarrow Relay.
Dr. Jon Stephenson, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, praised the participants after the event, saying to them, “I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your participation in the Corporate Cup this year. Your enthusiasm and team spirit truly made the event a memorable experience. It was inspiring to see everyone come together, compete with passion, and support one another. Whether you were playing, cheering, or volunteering, your contributions were invaluable and showcased the strength of our team. I’m already looking forward to next year!”
Awards are given to the top teams in each individual event, and the overall winner earns bragging rights and the Oscar Brock Memorial Cup Trophy for the year. This year’s Large Company winners, first through third places, were Navy Federal, Ascension Sacred Heart and Florida Power & Light. Small Company winners, first to third places, were Institute for Human & Machine Cognition, Florida Blue and Medical Licensure Group. To encourage participants to adopt a healthy lifestyle, team members receive a limited Y membership.
A detailed listing of events and winners are found on the event website at www.ymcanwfl.org