University is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience — a mix of lectures, late-night study sessions, endless coffee runs, and, for many, stepping into adulthood for the first time. Yet, one of the most underrated parts of university life isn’t found in the classroom at all. It lies in the vibrant communities of sports teams and societies that fill campuses with energy, diversity, and opportunities.
For students navigating the transition to independence, joining a sports team or a society can be transformative. Beyond just “something extra to do,” these groups provide real, tangible benefits that shape students personally, academically, and professionally. In this article, we’ll dive into three of the biggest benefits of joining a sports team or society at university — benefits backed by lived experiences, research, and student stories.
1. Building Lifelong Friendships and a Support Network
Starting university can feel like being dropped in the middle of a busy airport without a map. Everyone is rushing around with their own destinations, and you’re just trying to figure out where to go. This is where societies and sports teams come in — they offer instant community.
When you join a society, you’re surrounded by people who share similar passions, whether it’s chess, photography, drama, or debating. Sports teams provide a similar bond, uniting students under a shared goal of training, competing, and celebrating victories (or commiserating over losses) together.
Why Community Matters at University
Humans are wired for connection, and university can feel isolating, especially for international students or those moving far from home. Having a group of peers who understand your challenges, celebrate your wins, and check in on you when you’re struggling creates a safety net.
Example: A former student once shared how joining the basketball team helped him overcome homesickness. He said practices weren’t just about training but also about laughing over shared mistakes, weekend trips for tournaments, and even learning how to cook meals together in cramped dorm kitchens. That “team family” made the difference between feeling lonely and feeling at home.
Key Benefits of Friendships in Societies and Sports Teams
- Built-in social circle from day one.
- Emotional support during stressful times.
- Networking opportunities that extend beyond university years.
- A mix of friends across different degree programs.
2. Enhancing Personal Growth and Transferable Skills
University isn’t only about academic knowledge — it’s also about developing the skills that shape your future career and personal life. Joining a society or team is a crash course in learning things you can’t pick up from textbooks.
Leadership and Teamwork
Societies often have committees, meaning you can take on leadership roles — president, treasurer, events coordinator, etc. Sports teams also demand collaboration, strategy, and discipline. These roles teach students how to manage people, plan events, handle conflict, and work toward common goals.
Time Management and Responsibility
Balancing coursework with practices, meetings, and events sharpens time management. Employers often say that graduates with extracurricular experience are more reliable and adaptable because they’ve learned how to juggle multiple responsibilities.
Confidence and Communication
Standing up to speak at a debate society or taking responsibility for your teammates on the field naturally builds confidence. You learn how to express ideas clearly, handle setbacks gracefully, and carry yourself with assurance.
Table: Academic vs. Extracurricular Learning
| Skill | Learned in Class | Learned in Societies/Sports |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | Essays & Exams | Strategy sessions, debates |
| Communication | Presentations | Team huddles, public events |
| Leadership | Group projects | Society committees, team captain roles |
| Time Management | Deadlines | Balancing training & classes |
| Resilience | Challenging courses | Handling losses, setbacks, event failures |
3. Boosting Mental and Physical Wellbeing
University life can be stressful. Between exams, deadlines, and financial pressures, many students struggle with anxiety, burnout, or loneliness. Joining a sports team or society provides a much-needed outlet to recharge, refresh, and rebalance.
Physical Health Benefits of Sports Teams
Playing sports regularly improves cardiovascular health, increases energy, and enhances sleep quality. Even casual participation in intramural teams boosts fitness while adding a fun social element.
Mental Health Benefits of Societies
Not every student is an athlete — and that’s okay. Societies offer creative and intellectual outlets that reduce stress. Whether you’re performing in a theater group or joining a cultural society, having that “escape” from academic stress is vital.
Emotional Wellbeing and Stress Relief
Studies consistently show that students involved in extracurricular activities report higher levels of satisfaction and happiness. This is because shared hobbies and goals release endorphins and provide positive reinforcement.
Pros & Cons List of Joining Sports Teams vs. Societies
Sports Teams
✅ Improves physical fitness
✅ Builds discipline and resilience
✅ Competitive spirit adds motivation
❌ Requires physical commitment and time
Societies
✅ Welcomes all skill levels and interests
✅ Wide variety of choices (cultural, creative, academic)
✅ Flexible participation compared to sports
❌ Some societies may have less structure or commitment
People Also Ask (PAA) Section
Q1: Why should I join a society at university?
Joining a society helps you meet like-minded people, build transferable skills, and create balance outside of academics. It’s one of the fastest ways to feel part of the campus community.
Q2: Are sports teams only for experienced athletes?
Not at all. Many universities offer beginner-friendly clubs, intramural teams, and recreational leagues designed for those who simply want to stay active and have fun.
Q3: How do societies help with future careers?
Societies provide leadership opportunities, event management experience, networking, and skills like communication and teamwork that employers highly value.
Q4: Can joining a team or society help with mental health?
Yes. Being part of a group reduces feelings of isolation, helps manage stress, and gives you a sense of belonging, which positively impacts mental wellbeing.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the right society or sports team?
Think about your personal interests, your long-term goals, and how much time you realistically have to commit. Attend “freshers’ fairs” where clubs showcase what they offer.
2. What if I don’t know anyone when I join?
That’s completely normal. Most students join societies and teams specifically to make friends. Committees often organize icebreaker events to help new members settle in quickly.
3. Do employers really value extracurriculars?
Yes. Employers consistently highlight extracurricular involvement as a strong indicator of leadership potential, time management, and adaptability.
4. Can I join more than one society or team?
Absolutely. Many students balance two or three societies depending on their workload. The key is to avoid overcommitting and burning out.
5. Are there costs involved?
Some teams and societies may charge small membership fees to cover equipment, events, or trips. However, universities often subsidize these costs, and the experience is usually well worth it.
Final Thoughts
Joining a sports team or society at university isn’t just “something extra.” It’s an investment in your growth, wellbeing, and future. You’ll make friends who feel like family, develop life-changing skills, and protect your mental and physical health in the process.
Whether you’re sprinting across a pitch, debating in front of an audience, or exploring photography with fellow enthusiasts, these experiences shape the university journey in ways lectures alone never could. If you’re starting or already in university, don’t hesitate — sign up, show up, and discover the transformative power of being part of something bigger than yourself.