Hannah Greene | Sports Editor
Western Oregon offers a variety of club sports, some being Tier I — competitive play with seasons and multiple games/tournaments — and Tier II which do not normally compete and are more of a gathering of people with similar interests. Western has many teams returning hungry for more wins, championships and titles.
Men’s Rugby returns this season after an extraordinary year full of victories and achievements. This team has a strong tradition of success and recognition across the pitch; they are nationally ranked 30 out of 240+ teams. Men’s Rugby is an excellent choice for anyone looking to step on the gridiron and battle it out.
Women’s Soccer is back and ready for more grueling battles, hopefully able to put away a win against the only team that beat them in their previous season: University of Oregon Gold. This is Women’s Soccer first year as an IFC funded club team, thanks to the hard work and perseverance of graduated player and club founder, Haylie Shinsato.
Men’s Lacrosse, another highly successful club sport at Western, returns this year after a national ranking with multiple individual honors. They begin practicing this fall to prepare for their season during Spring Term.
Along with these fall teams are Women’s Rugby, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Volleyball, Men’s Basketball, the Rock Climbing Team, and Dance Team which performs at halftime during every home football game.
Tier II club sports include a running, tennis and wrestling team.
For those looking for something active with no big time commitment or a lot of traveling, club sports is the way to go. Some club sports are free to join while other teams fundraise throughout season to help with any costs that may be needed. Club sports offer a way to exercise, have fun and meet great people while being a part of the school and getting the chance to rep Western’s red and black proudly.
For more information about club sports, how to join, teams schedules and more, visit wou.edu/campusrec/programs/club-sports/ or follow their social media pages on Instagram. Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu
