Written by Alexis Guzman | August 24, 2024
Club sports at USC are offered recreationally to any students enrolled in the institution.
The facts
Sports are a big part of many children’s youth. Once high school ends, being an athlete also ends for most. The great thing about USC recreational sports is that it allows students to continue their athletic journey at a less competitive level than collegiate sports. It means a lot of people don’t have to give up the sport they love just because they haven’t been recruited for a college team.
Club sports are registered student organizations with a sports-minded philosophy. These teams travel and compete against other universities but do not require the same commitment as a varsity sport. Clubs do practice several times a week and take up more time than intramurals,
While club sports do require a commitment, they are designed to be flexible and accommodating. They understand that academics come first, and they strive to work around your class schedule. Each sport and the club associated with it has a different practice schedule, so shop around and find something that fits your needs.
When in a club sport, you get to travel…across town…or across the country! Either way, it’s pretty cool.
Club sports at USC offer a diverse range of activities, including baseball, basketball, ultimate frisbee, beach volleyball, fencing, field hockey, softball, swim, and more. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone’s interests and skills.
For a complete list, visit recsports.usc.edu.
Dues
All club members pay $25 for a pass that provides services to clubs and receive benefits such as free clinics, injury prevention, and access to club events. Each club has its dues, some more expensive than others. These dues go directly towards the club. Aside from the $25 dues, students are also expected to pay out of pocket for any traveling expenses for games or matches. Some may offer financial aid and some may not — it’s always a good idea to reach out to current members or the club’s executive board to figure out what they offer and how flexible they are.
Clubs will hire a volunteer or pay for a coach to come and coach them. This coach is typically either familiar with the sport or an alumnus of that club. Every club is different and decides how to hire a coach, usually through a selection process or based on recommendations from existing members.
To get involved
Reach out to the club you’re interested in. Inquire about practices, dues, and what is needed to join. Many clubs have tryouts, but some don’t and just take sign-ups. The most straightforward way is to reach out via social media and email to events beginning the semester, like RecFest, which usually happens in the second week. All links to club sports social media pages are here.
What days would I practice?
Practice schedules depend on the club and practice space. Many clubs practice off-campus, so it depends on what this off-campus venue can also do. Club sports use a lot more involvement. Practice several times a week. It’s a lot more of a time constraint. It takes up much more of your time; everyone is a student, so club sports try their best to work around class schedules.
How do I join?
Contact the clubs you are interested in through recsports.usc.edu.
Each club has its Instagram platforms connected to the page so students can reach out to members.
Club sports at USC are not just about the game, they’re about the community. They are inclusive and welcoming to all walks of life and provide an opportunity to create lasting friendships and memories. There’s a club for everyone, there’s something for everyone.