Looking to be active and make friends? Even if varsity collegiate sports aren’t for you, intramural and club teams can keep you involved in your favorite sports while providing social perks as well.
Working exercise into your weekly routine is good for your body as well as your mind. Regular sweat sessions lower stress levels, improve concentration, and increase your energy. In a recent Student Health 101 survey, 75 percent of respondents said that “fun” was the number-one reason they joined a team. Sports facilitate bonding, and give you the chance to play, literally! Everyone needs to share the uninhibited part of his or her personality; when you’re relaxed, it’s easier to make and deepen friendships.
Intramural and club sports are especially helpful for new students, and are also great for older students. Albert R., a junior at Colgate University in New York, notes, “Sports can help build chemistry with people, especially [when you do] something memorable or trip and fall and look like an idiot, but it’s hilarious.”
Club and intramural sports offer a good environment for friendly competition and trying a new sport. Brielle M. and Ashley W., both juniors at University of Maryland-College Park, agree. Brielle explains, “Intramurals are relaxed. Time is often negotiable—perfect for students trying to balance everything.”
Ashley notes, “Intramurals are for everyone, regardless of athletic ability. The purpose is to have fun and stay fit.”
Whether you’re a superstar athlete or a newbie, you’ll find fun and camaraderie on an intramural or club team. Emily S., a senior at Radford University in Virginia, shares, “I love intramural sports. They give me a break from classes and help me feel better in general.”
LAURIN WOLF is a writing major and senior at Johns Hopkins University.
