Sport Clubs: Frequently Asked Questions
Find out more information about the new University initiative to bolster Sport Clubs.
Q: How do I join a sport club?
A: In order to join a club, check the full list of active sport clubs. With each link you will find contact information for the desired club. Contact the president and they will be able to give you all the information to join their club.
Q: What kind of sport clubs does the University of Richmond sponsor?
A: Our program sponsors men's, women's, and co-recreational teams in sports ranging from soccer to ultimate frisbee to ice hockey. Check out our list of active sport clubs to find out whether we have your sport.
Q: I don't see my sport on the list. How can I start a team?
A: First, it's a good idea to gauge student interest in your club. Once you've established that people are interested, you must meet with the Director of Student Activities to discuss the procedures for becoming a student organization. After you have received student organization status, contact the Manager of Sport Clubs and Outdoor Adventure. We’ll guide you through the sport club renewal process. After you’ve completed the renewal process, we'll invite you to our next Council meeting to introduce your club. The Council will vote on whether to approve your club the following meeting.
Q: How often do sport clubs practice and compete?
A: The number of weekly practices and competitions vary widely for each club. Some clubs practice up to five days a week and compete every weekend, while others practice just one day a week and compete once a semester. You can contact the Club President of the team that you are interested in to find out specific practice and competition information.
Q: How much does it cost to participate in a sport club?
A: All University of Richmond students are eligible to participate in the Sport Club program for free. Most clubs do, however, require that members pay annual or semester dues. Some clubs also require specific equipment that may cause members to incur additional expenses. Costs vary widely for each club, so contact the Sport Club President to find out specific information and to discuss special circumstances.
Q: Does the University of Richmond fund sport clubs?
A: The University currently allocates $60,000 to the Sport Club program. The Sport Club staff use existing Policies and Procedures to allocate these funds to clubs in three categories: Matching Funds, Incentive Money, and Sport Club Council Money. The amount of funding allocated to each club ranged from $0 to $5,000 last year. In addition to these funds, clubs participate in various fundraising events throughout the year to raise money for their teams. Typical fundraisers include car washes, candy sales, working concessions at basketball games, team nights at local restaurants, and parent/alumni mailings.
Q: What kind of leadership opportunities exist for me in the Sport Club program?
A: Sport clubs provide students excellent leadership opportunities. Most clubs have a full slate of officers (president, vice president, secretary, treasurer). Some clubs also have additional officers depending on the needs of their organization. Additionally, all sport club members are eligible to run for a position on the Sport Club Executive Council (president, vice president, secretary, treasurer). The program also provides members with the opportunity to participate in special recreation projects and/or committees.
Q: What does the future hold for sport clubs at the University of Richmond?
A: The University of Richmond plans to be a national leader in the development of varsity clubs. Sport clubs are highly beneficial to students and the university; they promote social and academic interaction among people from a broad range of backgrounds and encourage healthy lifestyles that inspire academic productivity and personal growth. Given these benefits as well as the rapid growth of sport club programs nationally, the University will generously support our clubs and provide ample resources for our programs to flourish.
Q: What is a varsity club?
A: Varsity clubs are sport clubs given many of the privileges of NCAA varsity sports. However, they do not provide scholarships and are not recognized by the NCAA. Varsity clubs cost universities less than varsity sports, and provide students an opportunity to live balanced lives academically, athletically, and socially.
At the University of Richmond, varsity clubs will be recognized as flagship programs receiving the highest level of university funding and administrative support to make this a positive and successful experience for the students. Paid coaches and athletic trainers will be present and available at all practices and competitions to ensure quality coaching, supervision, and risk management. Safe and efficient travel will be provided to minimize missed class time and allow sport club athletes to focus on their studies. Clubs will travel and present themselves in a manner befitting the University of Richmond—in official team attire, respectful and proud.
Q: Which sport clubs are currently being considered for varsity club status?
A: Given the promise of the men's lacrosse club and women's crew club, both programs are being considered for varsity club status.
Q: What impact will a significant increase in sport club funding have on student life, satisfaction, and success? What will be the return on our investment to the University?
A: We anticipate increased resources will equal increased impact in the following areas:
Student recruitment/retention: Successful clubs and inspired coaches will help with recruitment and retention of students.
Connections and support system: First-year students make an immediate connection while teammates and coaches provide a much needed support system.
Leadership opportunities: Sport clubs help prepare students to live lives of purpose and become responsible leaders in society.
Health and well-being: Participation in sport clubs promotes physical fitness, relieves stress, and helps students with their emotional and psychological well-being.
Alumni relations: Increase opportunities for alumni involvement and relations
Didn’t find the answer to your question? Contact Kerry McClung, Manager of Sport Clubs & Outdoor Adventure.