Why You Don’t Need to be a Varsity Athlete to Play Sports at University

Author: Amy Thompson
Posted on June 16, 2020

The transition from playing a lot of sports in high school to not being on any varsity sports teams in University can be a bigger adjustment than you might expect. For many students (myself included) this is the first time that your schedule is not jam-packed with practices and games. It feels weird having so much free time and without that structure it can honestly be so challenging to try and manage your time efficiently and get enough physical activity.

Yes, going to the gym and going for walks at Waterfowl Park can help you stay in shape but, intramural sports are the most fun way to stay physically fit all while still having that competitive edge. Joining your residence’s intramural sports team is a definite DO as a first-year student at MTA. It is the perfect way to show your house spirit (and get points for House of the Year) as well as show your friends from other residences which is the better house! Not to mention, intramural sports are a low-commitment, fun way to meet new people and incorporate balance into your life – which is really important to do as a student!

I have made some of my favourite memories playing intramural sports with my friends! And, the most fun times were had when we had never played the sport before. This was especially the case for my residence’s volleyball team. When I was in first year, my friends and I formed a team and many of us had never played before! Yes, we did lose almost every game BUT we also had SO many laughs. This past year our team made it to the volleyball finals against Mount B, which was such an accomplishment for us! This just goes to show that you don’t need to have any prior experience or skill when it comes to playing intramural sports. So, don’t be nervous to sign up for a sport that you have never played! You might meet some of your bestest friends and make some of your favourite memories!

Photo: Campbell Hall's intramural volleyball team