Answers to the most common questions about joining a club team, who can play, time, cost and starting a new club.
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Varsity, club or intramural?
| Varsity | Club Sports | Intramurals | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who you play | Other colleges, under NCAA and ACC rules | Other colleges and universities; not part of the NCAA or ACC | Other BC students, on campus |
| Who runs it | Boston College Athletics | Student officers, with support from Campus Recreation | Campus Recreation |
| How to join | Some sports allow walk-on tryouts; others only recruit | Contact the team's officers; most clubs hold tryouts | Register a team or sign up as a free agent |
| Commitment | Mandatory practices, games and travel; usually a full year | Most practice 2–3 times a week and compete on weekends; may not be a full-year commitment | Usually one game a week in seasons of 3–6 weeks; no travel |
| Learn more | BC Eagles | Club Sports | Intramurals |
Questions
What is a club sport?
A club sport is a student-run organization for students who share an interest in a competitive sport. Clubs are officially recognized by Campus Recreation, Athletics and the Student Programs Office.
Clubs usually practice several times a week and travel to compete against other colleges, but they aren't part of the NCAA or ACC. Many have coaches, but the officers and athletes run the team: they schedule games and practices, manage the budget, hire coaches and plan travel.
Who can play?
To play on a club team, you must:
- Be a full-time BC undergraduate or graduate student
- Meet the eligibility rules in your team's constitution
- Meet the eligibility rules of the league your team competes in
- Have a Campus Rec membership. Undergrads get one with tuition; Woods College and graduate students buy a membership.
Faculty, staff and alumni can't play on club teams. Only athletes on the team's roster, which is kept on file with the Club Sports office, can use club equipment, practice times or compete.
How do I join a team?
Each club sets its own membership requirements, and most hold tryouts before their competition season. Find your sport and contact the team's officers to learn more.
How much time does it take?
It depends on the club, but most teams practice 2–3 times a week for about two hours and compete once a weekend during their season.
What does it cost, and how are clubs funded?
Club Sports are supported by Campus Recreation and can receive funding from the Club Sport Council Executive Board. Clubs also fundraise and charge dues to cover their costs, and some receive donations. Dues vary a lot by sport, so ask the team's officers.
Pay your dues and fees through the Club Sports payment portal. Want to support a team? Give to Club Sports.
Are clubs competitive or recreational?
Most BC club teams are highly competitive and aim to compete at the national level, so most hold tryouts and make cuts to keep their rosters a manageable size. Some clubs also have a recreational side; ask the team's officers. Looking for something more casual? Try Intramurals.
What if I get hurt?
Club athletes can see the Club Sports athletic trainer in Room 402 of the Margot Connell Recreation Center. See Athletic Training for hours and how to book an appointment.
How do I start a new club?
Don't see your sport? Students can propose a new club team. Proposals are due by March 31 each year.
- Read the New Club Sport Proposal Process (PDF).
- Email your proposal to the Assistant Director, Competitive Sports. You'll find their contact information in the Staff Directory.
Proposals for a sport that duplicates or substantially overlaps an existing BC club team won't be accepted.