Commander dives into intramural battlefield

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David Owsianka
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Going into the battlefield of intramural sports the 56th Security Forces Squadron received support on the field and sidelines from their commander.

Maj. Gerald Mulhollen, 56th SFS commander, has actively participated and supported his squadron after becoming part of the unit.

"Interacting with my Airmen allows me to see how they react to adversity whether it's on the field or court," he said. "I also get to see my young Airmen's leadership abilities."

According to Mulhollen, sports are the ultimate reality TV, because it shows the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

"I like the fact that you have to earn things in sports," he said. "It's great to watch people put their hearts and souls into something and see how they interact and grow as a team."

In the two years Mulhollen's been commander, SFS has won two one-pitch softball tournaments, the 2011 softball championship, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, tennis, May fitness month bowling, a track meet, micro soccer tournament and the 2011 commander's cup; they placed second in 2012 spring softball; and placed third in winter 2011 basketball and flag football.

Staff Sgt. Michael Dicicco, 56th SFS trainer and augmentee coordinator, recalls a moment during an intramural basketball game when the team needed a body and Mulhollen came from the stands to play.

"During the game, he contributed a few points that helped us win," he said. "If he didn't play we would've had to forfeit."

Airmen like Dicicco, who play intramural sports, appreciate having Mulhollen support them at intramural games.

"Normally Airmen don't see their commander in the stands, let alone on the field playing next to them," he said. "It lets us know that he's interested and cares about the unit."

To Mulhollen, intramural sports isn't just about the adventure that comes from the play of the game, it helps build a stronger squadron.

"I think as a leader it's important to be involved with your Airmen during the duty day and be a part of their lives," he said. "The more you know about the Airmen you work with, the better leader you will be for them."