Seven reasons students should get involved in club sports at Winthrop
Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 11:42AM By Jeff Brodeur
Jeff BrodeurA short walk around the Winthrop Coliseum is all it takes to see how much pride our school takes in its varsity athletic programs. While all the Championship banners and trophies are impressive, this shouldn’t discourage the more casual athletes on campus to get in the game.
Winthrop currently offers 14 club sports ranging from basketball, to Taekwondo, to Quidditch, open to athletes and non-athletes alike to join.
Here are seven reasons why students to get involved in club sports:
Reason #1: It’s a good incentive to stay on campus
One of the biggest mistakes a new student can make is to pack their bags and go home every weekend. It forces them to resort back to their normal routine instead of gaining the full college experience. And why not take full advantage of the campus that you’re paying tuition to stay on?
Reason #2: You can meet people who share your interests
Aside from getting an education, isn’t this what college is all about? Especially for first year students, it’s crucial to get involved and build relationships right off the bat. Joining a club sport does just that. They surround you with people who share the same interests as you and force you to spend time with them on a regular basis.
Reason#3: You can stay in shape
We all know of the infamous “Freshman 15”. Winthrop offers a wide variety of clubs that get you out of the room and moving, regardless of your athletic ability. For those looking for an intense, heart pounding workout, the University offers basketball and three variations of martial arts. For those looking for a more leisurely form of exercise, perhaps the outdoor adventure club would be a better fit.
Reason #4: It’s Free!
All it’s takes is a quick email to the club you’re interested in and at the most a few papers to sign. That’s it. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t any less fun. All of the club sports are still organized and professional, just without the pressure or cost that comes with playing varsity sports. The people who organize these clubs are passionate about what they do and are eagerly waiting to teach their sport to anyone who’s willing to play.
Reason #5: They can work around your class schedule
Academics are (and if they aren’t, they should be) the top priority of everyone here at Winthrop. Club sports do their best to keep their game and practice schedule on the weekend or later during the week to try and avoid any conflict. If you have to miss a practice or a game for any reason, it won’t be held against you. Clubs will always be looked at as extracurricular, and nothing more.
Reason #6: There’s something for everyone
Winthrop currently offers 14 active club sports, and they span a wide variety of interests. Have an idea for a new sport that isn’t offered? Start your own up. If your sport generates enough interest, you can fill out an application and make it an official Winthrop club sport. The possibilities are endless.
Reason #7: It’s fun!
Isn’t that what it’s all about?
So what are you waiting for? Get out of the dorm and join a club sport.
