A lot of people think that college club sports are the ugly stepsister to varsity sports and may look down on them. After all, aren't club sports made up of lesser-skilled players who are there because they couldn't make varsity? 

Turns out, that is not the case. There are many reasons athletes join club teams and many club teams that have varsity level players–they just don't want to practice 6 days a week and play games two times a week. It isn't because they don't love the sport, but it is more because they have other things to focus on. This seems like a good move if you aren't trying to make it to the big leagues since many club players retire after college and will get no recognition during their college career.

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People who play club sports most likely practice two to three times a week and they are usually optional. So. If you have a paper due the next day or an exam to study for, it is no big deal if you can't make a practice unlike if you're on the varsity team. The club level will have around five to eight games a semester. 

From the varsity point of view, you have a lot more practices to attend and some of these will likely be in the morning. You will definitely be in shape for the season and your weeks are packed with things to do besides practice–think film sessions, media days, lifts and more. If you are up for all of that and you have the skill set to match then varsity is your way to go. If you just want a more relaxed team, then club is your move. 

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Joining club sports at college is very simple and easy for everyone to do. It is not a tryout, everyone is welcomed. There will usually be a club fair at most schools that you can attend and get the information for the club sport of your interest. There will be a signup sheet that will let you receive emails about practices or any events. Even if you miss the club fair you can always find someone involved and just tag along to the practices and from there you can join officially. This is the beauty of club sports because it is not mandatory and very simple to join.  

At the end of the day, the college experience is different for everyone so everyone's choices will be different. Make the choice that's best for you. 

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* Originally published on July 25, 2022, by Chris Russo