A variety of UVA sports

Before I came to college I wasn’t at all into sports. My high school didn’t have a lot to offer to spectators and I was never very into watching professional sports. When I came to UVA I learned how exciting college athletics can be. Some of my best memories from college have to do with attending sporting events. Everyone knows about basketball, it has already warranted its own post. But UVA has so much more to offer in addition to hoops.

The athletics program boasts 25 varsity athletic teams and has won 21 national championships, the most recent victory belonging to men’s soccer. Women’s soccer and men’s baseball are up there too, both finishing second nationally within the past year.

UVA’s student section, Hoo Crew, does a good job of promoting student attendance at a variety of sporting events. Not only does more varied attendance give you a better chance of getting tickets to basketball games at JPJ, but it makes you a more well-rounded and dedicated fan. My personal goal is to try to attend an event for every sport. In my experience so far I can say soccer, baseball and lacrosse events are just as exciting as any other sport.

As an extra bonus, many times varsity athletes will come out to support other sports at UVA. For example, last year Joe Harris threw the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game at Davenport Field. In addition, men’s basketball players can be spotted at the women’s games at JPJ.

If you’d rather play than watch I would recommend looking into club sports or intramural sports at UVA. Club sports are more competitive and intramural sports are much more casual. For intramurals you can sign up with a group of friends, your dorm or as a free agent. These sports range from soccer and football to ultimate Frisbee and dodgeball and are always a lot of fun.

So no matter what your degree of enthusiasm for sports may be now, be prepared to become an instant fan when you come to UVA!