Santa Clara University

What is a Club Sport?

Club Sports are student-driven, self-funded teams that have an interest in competition, sports, and physical activity. 

Who is eligible to join a Club Sport team?

Any full-time Santa Clara University undergraduate student in good standing is eligible to join a team. Some teams do allow graduate students, faculty, or staff however faculty and staff club members cannot compete, only practice. Please check directly with the club to learn about their specific membership requirements.

How do I join a Club Sport team?

Please contact the club President to get more information on joining a club.

Are there tryouts? 

All of our clubs welcome beginners!  However, some club teams choose to limit their roster size and may have tryouts.

When and where do clubs practice?

Many of our clubs practice on-campus at the Pat Malley Fitness and Recreation Center or out on Bellomy Field. Clubs that require additional facility resources practice off-campus throughout the Bay Area.

What is the level of competition?

In general, Club Sport competition falls between intramurals and intercollegiate athletics.

Do I need experience in the sport?

Many Club Sport teams take members of any and all skill levels.

Do I have to pay a fee?

Fees vary from club to club.  Please contact each club directly to inquire further. 

Can I start a new Club Sport team?

The Club Sport program is no longer accepting applications from prospective teams, and is currently capped at 18 clubs.  If you want to start a "recreational" club that doesn't compete against other universities, you should contact the Chair of the Student Affairs Committee (Associated Students) to inquire about becoming a Registered Student Organization. 

Can a Club Sport team member still play intramurals?

Club Sport members cannot participate in an intramural event of the same sport (example: a Men's Volleyball club member cannot play intramural volleyball). However, Club Sports members are welcome to participate in all other intramural events.