The University of Toronto’s leagues, sports clubs, and fitness programs let students participate in activities from the elite level – producing national champions in team and individual disciplines – to recreational programs for every ability level.

 

Varsity Blues

U of T’s intercollegiate sports are often obscured underneath the constant talk of academic excellence, but the university’s teams have a rich history and continue to perform at the top of their leagues.

Through the Varsity Blues, you can meet athletes of your caliber and compete with other university teams in sports including badminton, baseball, basketball, football, hockey rugby, soccer, swimming, tennis, and track and field. For the more outdoors-inclined, you can also represent U of T in mountain biking, nordic skiing, or rowing.

“[It’s] a great lifestyle choice,” says Blues female rookie of the year, runner Rachel Jewett. “It adds structure and a degree of organization to school life [and] it’s a great way to make friends and build a support system, as well as to feel connected with the school.”

Interested athletes are encouraged to contact the coach prior to trying out. Open tryout dates are posted on varsityblues.ca

 

Intramurals 

For those who aren’t ready for the commitment of Varsity sports, or simply looking for a fun, social way to exercise, intramurals are the answer. More than 10,000 students participate in different levels of tri-campus, men’s, women’s, and co-ed sports leagues at U of T. There are plenty of sports to choose from, from indoor soccer to ultimate frisbee and inner tube water polo.

Students can join teams at any time prior to playoffs and need to play 50 per cent of the regular season to participate in the playoff games.

Contact info for college/faculty representatives is available at uoftintramurals.ca

 

Clubs

Less conventional sports not easily translated to team competitions find their place on campus in clubs. UTSU sports clubs include rock climbing, kung fu, table tennis, and quidditch, to name a few.

Browse the UTSU clubs list on utsu.ca and contact clubs directly to find out the proper procedure for becoming a member. Ask about associated fees, club meeting times, and equipment requirements.

 

Hart House Recreation

Behind its unassuming exterior Hart House hosts an impressive range of fitness facilities as well as helpful classes on getting started. Hart House offers instruction in aquatics, body awareness, cycle fit, dance, martial arts, personal fitness, squash, yoga, and more.

Register at Hart House Recreation’s office “The HUB,” or online at harthouse.ca/classes

Becoming involved in sports around campus, whether at a more professional level with the Varsity Blues, or for your own personal enjoyment in a Hart House fitness class, will provide an outlet for the stresses that the semester can bring. The University of Toronto has a team or sport for all levels of skill and interest, so make sure to check them out!