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Club Sports lacrosse athletes play on Katy O. Rady Field with the Palisades rock formation seen in the background.

Club Sports

Compete. Lead. Belong.

Club Sports at Western Colorado University gives students the opportunity to compete at a high level while building leadership skills, lifelong friendships, and a strong sense of community. Our programs are designed for students who want to stay active, represent Western in intercollegiate competition, and be part of something bigger than themselves. 

Western Club Sports teams travel throughout Colorado, Utah, and Montana to compete against other colleges and universities, with many teams pursuing regional and national championship opportunities. Most teams practice around three times per week and compete during both the fall and spring seasons. Practice schedules are designed with student availability in mind, allowing athletes to balance academics, athletics, and campus involvement. Whether you are an experienced competitor or looking for a new challenge, Club Sports offers an opportunity to grow, compete, and connect. 

W mountain topography
A rugby player holds a rugby ball and smiles with W Mountain behind him during the Homecoming Parade.

Invest in the Student-Athlete Experience

At Western Colorado University, Club Sports provides students with opportunities to compete at a high level while developing leadership skills, character, and lifelong friendships. Support from alumni and community partners plays a vital role in making these experiences possible. 

Your contributions help fund travel, equipment, league dues, uniforms, facility access, and national competition opportunities for our student athletes. Every donation directly impacts students by expanding access to competitive athletics and helping teams represent Western and the Gunnison community with pride. 

Together, we can continue building a strong tradition of teamwork, leadership, and opportunity for current and future generations of Club Sports athletes. 

A man swings a baseball bat.

Baseball

The Baseball Team is one of the longest-running and most successful club programs at Western Colorado University. In 2010, the team earned a national ranking of eighth in the United States and advanced to the NCBA World Series in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, marking one of the program’s most historic achievements. Competing in NCBA Division II, District VIII, the team continues to build on a strong tradition of competition, teamwork, and player development. 

Despite Gunnison’s long winters and late-arriving spring weather, the team works hard year-round to prepare for conference and regional competition. The program welcomes players of all skill levels, from experienced athletes to students looking to continue their passion for baseball in a competitive and supportive environment. Through practices, travel, and competition, players develop strong bonds while proudly representing Western on and off the field. 

Men's Basketball

The Men’s Club Basketball Team at Western Colorado University is a competitive and fast-growing program that travels throughout Colorado and neighboring states to compete against other collegiate club teams. The team provides student-athletes with the opportunity to continue playing organized basketball while balancing academics and campus involvement. 

Open to students of all skill levels, the program welcomes both experienced players and those looking to improve their game in a competitive environment. Practices focus on skill development, conditioning, teamwork, and game strategy while fostering a supportive and team-oriented culture. The program emphasizes sportsmanship, leadership, and community, fostering lasting friendships and memorable experiences through travel and competition. 

The men's club sports basketball team.
Male boxer throws an uppercut punch at punching bag held by the coach.

Boxing

The Boxing Club has been a proud part of Western Colorado University for more than 50 years, making it one of the university’s longest-standing club sports programs. Open to all ability and experience levels, the club welcomes everyone from first-time boxers to experienced competitors looking to continue training and competing at the collegiate level. 

The program focuses on discipline, conditioning, confidence, and technical skill development in a safe and supportive training environment. Over the years, Western boxers have competed successfully through the United States Intercollegiate Boxing Association (USIBA), with several athletes earning national titles and recognition. Beyond competition, the club promotes personal growth, mental toughness, and camaraderie among members who share a passion for the sport. 

Men's Hockey

The Men’s Club Ice Hockey Team at Western Colorado University competes as an ACHA Division III hockey program and plays between 18 and 24 games each season against collegiate opponents across the region. The team offers student-athletes the opportunity to compete at a high level while continuing their academic careers in one of Colorado’s most passionate hockey communities. 

While previous playing experience is encouraged, the program values dedication, teamwork, and a strong commitment to improving both individually and as a team. The Mountaineers pride themselves on building strong relationships within the Gunnison hockey community through volunteer work, youth engagement, and support for local organizations. The team culture emphasizes accountability, hard work, and representing Western with pride both on and off the ice. 

A western hockey player skating to the puck at practice.
A Western women's hockey player shoots the puck and scores a goal.

Women's Hockey

The Women’s Club Hockey Team at Western Colorado University provides an inclusive and supportive environment for athletes of all skill levels. Whether players are experienced competitors or stepping onto the ice for the first time, the program is dedicated to helping every athlete learn, improve, and enjoy the game. 

The team competes against collegiate opponents while fostering a culture built around teamwork, confidence, and personal growth. New members are always encouraged to join, and the club works to make the sport accessible by providing extra equipment for players who may not yet have gear. Through practices, games, and team activities, athletes build lasting friendships while representing Western in a positive and competitive environment. 

Men's Lacrosse

The Men’s Lacrosse Club at Western Colorado University competes in the Rocky Mountain Lacrosse Conference within the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA). Since relaunching in 2021, the program has experienced rapid growth and has become an important and competitive part of Western Club Sports. 

The team is committed to building a strong culture centered around hard work, accountability, and continuous improvement. Student athletes have the opportunity to develop their skills through structured practices, competitive games, and team-focused training while competing against programs throughout the region. Players of all experience levels are encouraged to reach out and become part of a growing program with an exciting future. 

Current western player attempts to block alumn's stick from throwing the ball
Women's rugby team playing a tough game.

Women's Rugby

The Women’s Rugby Team at Western Colorado University provides students with the opportunity to compete in a fast-paced and physically demanding sport while building leadership skills, confidence, and lasting friendships. The program welcomes athletes of all experience levels, from experienced rugby players to students trying the sport for the first time. 

Women’s Rugby emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and personal growth both on and off the field. Through practices, matches, travel, and team events, players develop a strong team culture while proudly representing Western and the Gunnison community in collegiate competition. 

Men's Rugby

With a history spanning more than 35 years, the Men’s Rugby Team is one of the oldest and most respected intercollegiate club sports programs at Western Colorado University. Competing in the Small College Division under National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) within the High Peaks Collegiate Rugby Conference, the team has built a tradition rooted in excellence, toughness, camaraderie, and pride. 

The program welcomes athletes from a variety of athletic backgrounds and experience levels, including students who are brand new to rugby. Players develop physical fitness, teamwork, leadership, and resilience through practices, matches, and travel experiences. Known for its strong team culture and dedication to both competition and community, Western Rugby continues to provide student-athletes with a rewarding and unforgettable collegiate experience. 

Western player kicks the ball after a try point
Natasha Kasozi winds up to kick the soccer ball during a drill at practice with the NCAA Women's Soccer Team.

Soccer

The Co-Rec Soccer Team at Western Colorado University is an active and welcoming club that competes during fall and spring seasons, offering opportunities for year-round participation. The team brings together students from a wide range of backgrounds who share a passion for the game and enjoy competing in a fun, inclusive environment. 

Open to all skill levels, the club focuses on teamwork, fitness, and building a strong sense of community among players. New participants are welcomed each semester, making the team a great opportunity for students looking to stay active, meet new people, and continue playing soccer during their college experience. The program emphasizes sportsmanship, camaraderie, and creating a positive environment both on and off the field. 

Softball

Club Softball at Western Colorado University encourages students to pursue an active lifestyle through competitive and recreational opportunities in the sport. The club is open to athletes of all experience levels and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about softball, regardless of prior playing knowledge. 

The program provides a supportive and enjoyable environment where players can improve their skills, build confidence, and compete alongside teammates who share a passion for the game. Through practices, games, and team events, student-athletes develop friendships, teamwork, and leadership skills while representing Western in intercollegiate competition. The team is always looking for enthusiastic new members who want to stay active and be part of a positive team culture. 

Linnea Baldner prepares to bat during a softball game. She faces the camera as she looks towards the pitcher. She has the bat raised over her left shoulder.
A Western Women's Volleyball player jumps up next to the net to block the ball from coming over.

Women's Volleyball

The Women’s Club Volleyball Team at Western Colorado University is dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and competitive play for students who are passionate about volleyball. Competing through the National Collegiate Volleyball Federation (NCVF) and the Mountain West Volleyball Conference, the team faces collegiate competition from across the region while continuing to grow and strengthen the program each season. 

Open to players of varying skill levels, the club provides opportunities for athletes to improve their skills, compete in tournaments, and build lasting connections with teammates. Practices focus on teamwork, communication, conditioning, and player development in a supportive and energetic environment. The program is always looking for new participants who are excited to compete, improve, and represent Western Club Sports. 

Contact Club Sports

Any questions about our Club Sports teams? Reach out to our Assistant Director of Campus Recreation for more information.