Bears get the scoop on club sports

Photo by Elaina Dixon 24

Photo by Elaina Dixon ’24

Marin Himes

Most athletes understand the differences between club and school sports; from mental health to general skills, different programs have different needs. 

   School sports consist of a concentrated season where you play a lot of games in only a couple of months. Whereas club is more tournament, showcase, and practice heavy. Club sports tend to cost more money. No matter the level of play, out-of-state travel is typically required for club. 

   In general, school sports are more fun. The season is played with friends, teachers are coaches, and there are pre-game team meals. Club sports do have upsides. Teams get to play other teams from around the country, stay in hotels with teammates, and go out to dinner with them. 

   Mental health within sports is not taken seriously enough. No matter the type of sport, student-athletes deserve more attention. Club sports give students opportunities that are hard to recreate but these opportunities also apply heavy pressure. Whether it is recruitment, practice, or a game, club sports take everything a step up. 

   School sports seasons are short because there are three different seasons that fit into a couple of months. This causes school sports to be beyond mentally draining. For example, volleyball plays 22 games in three months but for club volleyball that many games could take five months. 

   No matter the team, club, or circumstance, sports are overwhelming and can sometimes be too much.