As a Big 10 school, the University of Wisconsin offers its students the chance to watch some of the country’s best collegiate athletes compete on the field, on the court and on the ice. For Badgers who want to take their love of sports beyond just viewership, intramurals may be the answer.

The University offers numerous intramural sports leagues, meaning no matter who you are, you’re sure to find something right for you on campus. Students who haven’t played a sport in a while or want to try something new are also welcome, considering the leagues have different levels depending upon how competitive or skilled you are in a certain sport.

Intramural sports at Madison run year-round, and there are many options during each season. Students can pick sports like soccer, softball, baseball, basketball, lacrosse, golf, spikeball or just about anything else. The program also offers non-sports leagues such as video games and different pick ‘em leagues for sporting events like the World Cup and March Madness.

While the intramural sports program is sure to provide you with at least one league you’ll love, they also provide the opportunity to participate in multiple leagues without spending too much money out of pocket.

There are three different options for the Intramural Sports Pass. The best value is the year pass which costs $45 and gives students unlimited access to all intramural sports for the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

If you only want to participate in a specific semester, the semester pass might be a better fit for you. This pass allows students unlimited access to all sports for either the spring or fall semester at the cost of $25. Lastly, the summer pass costs just $5 and gives you access to any sports during the summer semester.

You may have to shell out a few dollars to participate in intramural sports, but they offer the priceless opportunity to meet new people, which is something that is especially important during the first semester at the University. Whether you choose to join blindly and meet people along the way or join up with existing friends, intramural sports facilitate bonding between members of the student community in a way that is not easily found in other places around campus. 

Madison is a great place for all sports fans. Whether that means participating, spectating, or both, UW gives students an outlet to get a fulfilling athletic experience throughout their academic careers.