In short, it is definitely not too late to join a sport at university.
The first semester of this university year is long over. Christmas and New Year have come and gone and, if your festive period was anything like mine, an impressive amount of turkey, mince pies and chocolates would have been consumed. Not to mention the amount of alcohol. It probably felt like being back at uni for a week or so!
It is now time for New Years’ resolutions, with people promising to kick their bad habits and replace them with healthier ones. The majority of these resolutions tend to be health based, whether that’s finally joining the local gym, promising to finally get into running, or starting to cook meals with enough greens to cover the entire plate. However, some people also choose to put themselves out there more with their New Year resolution. Encouraging themselves to meet new people and experience new opportunities.
The perfect time
I would argue that joining a sports club at university is the perfect way to combine both these factors. However, many prospective members believe this is not possible because, as mentioned earlier, we are already a third of the way through this academic year. But this certainly is not the case. University sports clubs accept members all year round. In fact, joining a club a bit later actually offers a number of advantages to those interested.
Firstly, it will cost less for the membership. This is because you will not be joining for the whole year, so it won’t be expected of you to pay for a full year’s membership. I know it can feel daunting joining a bit later. Most members have had at least a semester to get to know each other both socially and on the pitch.
However, there is no need to worry, as uni sports clubs will be making an active effort to push for new members at the start of the second term. This will certainly make joining the team a lot easier. The club will be actively aiding your integration into the group, as opposed to leaving you feeling like an outsider.
In fact, I can assure you that at your first training session, or social, you will be the most popular person there, with the fellow members of your new club eager to get to know another like-minded person. The committee of the club especially will offer a warm welcome, and will be accepting of you whether you are at county level or a complete beginner.
No pressure
Furthermore, there will be no pressure from anyone at the club to attend the socials, or drink an excessive amount whilst there. I know there is a certain reputation around sports teams at universities which may be somewhat disconcerting. But you can be certain that you will never be made to feel uncomfortable. Initiations for new members will only be undertaken if you are happy to do so. The majority of sports clubs now have a welfare secretary on their committee. They are a friendly face to turn to if you do encounter any issues.
Joining a sport at university is a perfect way to act on your New Year’s resolution. It certainly is not too late to become a member. In fact, joining now is something I would highly recommend, with the new opportunities only adding to your university experience.
See also: University sports costs explained