Club Sports
I'm a student, can I participate?
Students must meet all of the following requirements to participate in American University Club Sports:
1. Be enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at American University and consequently be taking the minimum number of credits required by the University to be considered a full-time student.
2. Meet all eligibility requirements stated in the individual team’s constitution.
3. Meet all eligibility requirements set forth by the league that the team competes in.
4. Be a member of American University Recreational Sports & Fitness Department by filling out required fitness center registration form. All Club athletes must also be on the club team roster with active information, this can be completed through the Club Sports team portal found at here.
What are the difference between Varsity, Intramural and Club Sports?
Varsity sports must follow NCAA and Patriot League rules and regulations (American University is a Division 1 school). Practices and games are mandatory and travel is required to play other universities. Some varsity sports might allow walk-on tryouts, while others purely recruit. Also, varsity sports usually require a full year commitment.
Intramural Sports are competitive sports played at American University among other AU students. There are 3 program offerings, leagues, tournaments, and one day events. Games are held on campus and no travel or practice is required.
Club Sports teams play other colleges and universities but are not part of NCAA or Patriot league. The teams are supported by the Recreational Sports & Fitness department and request funding comes from American University, team fundraising, and team dues. Club officers are responsible for hiring coaches and scheduling games and practices. Club sports may not require a full year commitment.
What is the time committment?
The time commitment required varies by club, but most teams practice 2-3 times a week for about two hours and compete once per weekend during their competition season.
Do teams have try outs?
Try outs vary depending on sport, some of our programs host try outs while others accept all committed participants.
I'm a alumni/faculty/staff member, can I participate?
Unfortunately, you are not permitted to participate in Club Sports.
Can a start a new club that is not listed?
If the sport you are interested in is not active at AU, applications for new clubs are accepted each Spring from Janaury 16th through March 1st for consideration the following year.
Students may use the application guide to help draft a proposal.
How do I join a club sport?
Check out our current club sports and email the appropriate contact listed for more information.