This article originally appeared in the Rough Draft print issue, in stands August 2025. It has not been updated and some information may be out of date.
The University of Utah is a school well-known for many things, whether that be on or off-campus activities or in the classroom, or outside of it. Despite being well-known for their education, research and overall structure of learning, the U also excels in the sports world. If you are a sports fan or an avid sports player who enjoys playing for fun, there are many ways to get involved, even if you aren’t a 5-star athlete.
Watching sports
The University of Utah has dominated several sports for many years. For example, the Red Rocks Gymnastics team made history last season by making their 49th consecutive NCAA National Championship appearance. Utah football has won 28 conference championships throughout the years, as well as two back-to-back recently in the Pac-12 in 2021 and 2022. Utah ski team also won its 17th national title this season, and its fourth in five years. These are just a few examples of how Utah is a dominant force and well worth watching. Many Utes have become professionals in their sport after playing at the college level as well.
Being a part of the MUSS gives you many perks as a Utah student. If you buy a MUSS pass for football, you get access to every home game, tailgating activities with fellow MUSS members, giveaways, free swag and many more incentives. If you could not buy a pass this year, you can get a chance to claim a ticket the week of the game you want to go to. Besides football, there are many other sports you can watch in person with ease.
For example, the following sports provide free tickets for students and guests as well: men’s and women’s basketball, women’s soccer, gymnastics, volleyball, baseball, softball, lacrosse and more.
Playing for fun: intramurals
If you want to be involved with sports on campus, you can sign up to play in one of the many recreational leagues the U has to offer. For just $30 per semester, you get access to a pass to sign up for any of the sports offered during that period. Some example sports in the fall include: flag football, soccer, sand volleyball and ultimate frisbee. If those are outside your interest, you can sign up for the next semester.
Even if you are not a professional, intramurals are a great way to meet people on campus, as they involve you working in a team and give you the chance to try something new if you have not played it before. These leagues are more “relaxed” compared to the other options on campus, and are a great way to spend time and get interested in the sport.
For frequency and how often you’d play, you would likely commit to either one or two evenings/nights a week, which allows you to allocate time properly and gives you options.
More competitive: club sports
If you are on the more competitive side of the sport you want to play, you can try playing on a club team. In the realm of club sports, you have over 20 options of sports to choose from. Club teams don’t just have you play on campus; some clubs play other club teams from other schools.
These clubs offer scheduled practices, travel, competition, and leadership experience. The cost of playing on a team can vary, from the $100 range to over $2,000. If you are willing to commit the time and effort to play on one of these teams, it can be a great choice for you.
If the sport you would like to take part in as a club member is not here, you can have the choice to create your own club. You must complete the application and follow the steps listed on it. Overall, if you are a competitive person who wants to represent the U, playing a club sport is a great way to compete and have fun.
Overall, there are several ways to be involved in Utah sports. Whether that is cheering from the side for your fellow Utes, or partaking in a fun recreational league, as well as playing in a club sport. There are many ways to have fun on campus, and playing sports is a great way to make friends, exercise, work on team-building as well as being able to get a new hobby or even a new interest in what you are playing. If you are interested in more information, check out the campus rec site at campusrec.utah.edu.
