While most of the time you’ll hear students interacting or walking around SXU’s campus, there may be a time you hear the clacking of croquet mallets against wooden balls. A local resident, Thomas Wilson, will often set up a course and encourage others to join in.
“Having grown up a block from SXU, I have always accessed the front lawn for various activities from playing tag with my school mates to honing my skills with a nine iron or pitching wedge.” said Mr. Wilson, when asked about how he came to play on SXU’s campus. “It is a lovely place to walk, bike, contemplate under a tree, or play a few games of croque.”
Serving as a place to enjoy himself since his childhood, SXU attracts those who are around. Regardless of the activity, there are always people enjoying the nature of the campus, and some join in for a round of croquet with Mr. Wilson.
Regardless of who you are, he is more than willing to include others and urges them to take up this sport. Even if you’re a security guard wondering what he’s doing, he’ll want you to join in.
“In the beginning we were scrutinized by campus security as they patrolled. Once while patrolling they exited their vehicle, approached and inquired what game we were playing?” he explained when talking about various interactions he’s had. “We ended up briefly explaining the rudiments of the game and had the officers hitting balls for a couple wickets. They left with a new found appreciation of the subtlety of the game.”
Being a part of a croquet club, he plays all over the city but the proximity of SXU and the expansive lawns allows a great spot to set up a game. Usually setting up in front of the Warde Academic Center, you can find him with other members of the club, or other people he knows and they are always willing to share some knowledge.
While croque is a game many are unfamiliar with, those who step out of their comfort zones and join Mr. Wilson for a few games will leave feeling happy and fulfilled, even if they were skeptical at first. The friendliness of Mr. Wilson paired with the beautiful and welcoming environment of SXU will often lead to others joining in.
With his love of the game sparking interactions, he encourages anyone, student, security, or other locals to participate and find the same love he has. One person in particular, Jack Justic, a coworker of Mr. Wilson and local resident, highlights his experiences participating in an unfamiliar game.
“I knew of the game but had never had the chance to play. When Thomas asked me to join, I thought it’d be a fun experience and since it was something I never tried, I thought it’d be a good chance to learn something new.” explained Mr. Justic. “The welcoming group as well as the pleasant environment of Saint Xavier made it a great time. I definitely recommend others join in and try it out too.”
For someone who has never touched the game, it’s something that’s easy to get the hang of and the group who set it up is just as easy to get along with. You don’t need a certain level of athleticism to participate, even if you’ve never heard of it, you can pick up a mallet and easily get the hang of it.
“It’s just an overall relaxing game. There’s competition, but the game is more about having a good time with those around you instead of trying to be the best.” Continued Mr. Justic. “With people of various ages in the group I played with, really anyone can play and be pleased with how they do”
With a game that dates back to the 14th century still connecting people nowadays, sometimes it can be a simple and timeless game that helps to bring people together. While many people are wary of the idea of trying something new, stepping out of your comfort zone will always help you to grow, and with croquet there is no exception.
So if you’re ever wandering through SXU’s campus and happen to hear that faint clacking among the bustle of the students and cars, don’t be alarmed. It will most likely be Thomas Wilson and some others playing a few rounds of croquet and don’t hesitate to try to join, you may leave with a new passion or some lasting memories.
By Danny Justice