Oberlin sponsors 20 intercollegiate athletic teams, but not everyone who harbors an interest in sports is ready to make the commitment to a varsity program. The club sports program offers an exciting alternative for students looking for a competitive experience in a less formal setting.
Both the experienced and the novice are welcome in 14 different club teams and activities ranging from Ultimate Frisbee and diving (both sky and scuba) to the martial arts and ice hockey. There are separate teams for men and women as well as coed programs in such sports as fencing and ice hockey. If the team concept is too formal, students can become involved in activities such as aikido and white-water rafting.
Club sports differ from varsity programs in many ways, but one of the most important is that they are organized and operated completely by students. Schedules, meetings, practices, and transportation to competitions are all arranged by students. Funding comes from the student finance committee and is supplemented by an intramural and club sports budget through the recreation office.
Although clubs sports are a little-known entity to some students, participation has reached nearly 16 percent of student enrollment. Club sports have realized a membership increase of approximately 10 percent in the past year, with aikido, rugby, and Ultimate Frisbee being three of the most popular programs. Leslie Goldman, a junior from Boston, relishes the opportunity to continue the sport she cherishes most. Involved in horseback riding since she was seven years old, Goldman is a member of Oberlin's equestrian team. "It's great to be able to continue riding," she said, "and it gives me a chance to meet other students with a common interest."
Club sports do more than fill the void between classes and studying. Goldman says the activity helps make her a better student. "Riding is a great stress reliever. It helps me focus and concentrate on what I'm doing. I often go riding to relax before studying for exams."
Senior Eric Nordstrom, a member of the water polo club, cites improved health and fitness as benefits. "Club sports are a great way to get exercise, yet still have fun," he said. "It's important to get regular exercise to stay in shape and keep from getting sick."
Club sports also offer valuable real-life lessons, according to Don Hunsinger, director of athletics and physical education. "Learning about competition is a vital part of education, along with all the positive experiences of being on a team," he said. "The ability to schedule, organize, and raise funds is an important skill to have when students enter the real world."
The opportunity to participate in less traditional sports is an integral part of campus life for some students, and it may also be an inducement to enroll for some prospective students as well. Dayan Birchler, operator of Muddy Creek Farm and coach of the equestrian team since its inception, knows this firsthand. "I have received calls from 20 prospectives inquiring about the equestrian team. It means a lot to them," she said.
Despite limited financial resources, Oberlin's club programs have experienced success at various levels. The women's Ultimate Frisbee team placed second in the Midwest region this year and will be making its first trip to nationals. The men's Ultimate team will be making its third trip to the championship tournament after placing third at the regional competition. Junior Shuna Klaveness will represent the equestrian club at the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association national championships this year. Over the years, several Oberlin riders have qualified for the IHSA regionals and have won numerous blue ribbons in competitions.
--Scott Wargo
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