Photograph by Tyler Stieber

Platteville Tuggers is in its first year at UW-Platteville. The team hopes to compete in their first match Dec. 5. From front: junior Amber Langmeier, freshman Melissa Weller, senior Sarah Becker, sophomore Korissa Prine and junior Alisha Parrt practice their pulling skills.

Tug-of-war is not just a Homecoming event anymore.

Those who enjoy pulling the rope can live out their fun with the new Platteville Tuggers club, started last year by the club coach and president, Amber Langmeier.

“Starting a club here at Platteville has always been one of my goals since I started, and to see it finally happening is so rewarding,” Langmeier said.

The Tuggers do not just pull for fun; there is a lot of practice and skill involved in the event. Participants even have a chance of going to championships to tug for titles.

“It’s not just crazy jerking, and pulling,” said Langmeier. “It’s a great way to stay in shape and make new friends too.”

Langmeier loves tug-of-war. The sport has allowed her to travel to Canada during the summer for competitions. She traveled to the Netherlands to pull in the 2006 World Championship, where her team placed 4th in the open 560K weight class.

Like any other sport there are rules and regulations when it comes to tug-of-war. There are certain weight classes for men, women and co-ed teams. Special shoes must be worn for outdoor and indoor matches, and members are not allowed to wear gloves.

The Tuggers have not had a match this year, but are hoping to set up the first of many matches as an indoor match on Dec. 5 in Oregon.

There are currently 10 members of the Platteville Tuggers. Practices are every Monday from 3-4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5:30-6 p.m. Practices are open to anyone interested, and people can join at any time.

“Practices are fun, but still a work out, and of course it motivates people to be better,” said Langmeier.

If you are interested in joining the Platteville Tuggers, contact Amber Langmeier at langmeiera@uwplatt.edu.