What is a Club Sport?
A club sport is a student-run organization that promotes and develops interest in a particular sport. Club Sports under the department of Athletics participate in intercollegiate competition against area colleges and universities. Each club is an official member of their respective sports’ governing body with organized competition at the local, regional, and national level. Club sports are officially sponsored by the College through the Bates Department of Athletics.
What is the difference between intramurals and club sports?
Although both are managed by the Department of Athletics, club sport teams are led and organized by students. Team practices, meetings, competitions, budgets, and fundraisers are organized, managed, and led by club officers and club members. Additionally, club sports travel to other colleges and universities to compete, while those playing intramurals compete against other Bates students.
What is the difference between Athletics sponsored club sports vs. BCSG (student Government) sponsored club sports?Athletic sponsored club sports are specifically required to join a league overseen by a governing body and compete vs other colleges. BCSG clubs do not have that requirement and often focus on playing the sport here on campus with other Bates students in a less formalized environment.
Do I need experience to participate?
Not necessarily. Many of the clubs recruit athletes of any skill level and are willing to teach newcomers their sport. All levels of experience are welcome to join.
Do club sports conduct tryouts?
All full-time Bates students in good standing with the college are welcome to be a member of a club and may not be denied membership. However, some club sports conduct try-outs to determine playing time during intercollegiate competition. For more information on a specific team, contact the club officers or reach out to clubsports@bates.edu.
How do I join a club sport?
All clubs will be tabling at the student orgs and club fair at the start of each semester. Additionally, you may join a club by contacting the officers listed on DSE or that club’s website. All club participants must join their club's roster on DSE.
What kind of commitment do club sports require?
Club sport commitments vary. Some clubs have both a competitive and developmental season that may span much of the academic year, while others may have a single season that spans 6 weeks. Clubs typically practice between 2 and 4 times per week and most often compete during the weekend while their season is in session. Competition attendance may also be mandatory for some clubs.
What are the benefits of joining a club sport?
Joining a club sport has many rewards. Among them are making friends, getting exercise, using your student fee to its fullest, traveling to new and interesting locations, and the respect that comes with representing Bates College on the playing field.
Are there costs associated with participating?
Membership dues vary for each club. Higher dues can be expected for club sports that require a lot of equipment, special facilities, and plan to travel frequently. Some clubs do not collect any dues. Fundraising efforts will help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for members.
Still Have Questions?
For any additional questions, please contact the Club Sports Office at clubsports@bates.edu
