This handbook has been compiled to serve as a policies and procedures reference for all Club Sports Teams recognized by Gardner-Webb University. This Club Sports Handbook provides policies and procedures to meet the unique needs of Club Sports Teams. Club Sports Teams are “Student Organizations,” and operate under the direction of the Division of Student Development. Except as provided in this handbook, Club Sports Teams are subject to the Student Organization Handbook.
This Club Sports handbook serves to assist teams in the administration of their organizations and outlines the standards, policies, and procedures to be followed. These guidelines are written to ensure fair and equal opportunity for all GWU Club Sports participants. The policies and procedures identified in this handbook are not an exhaustive listing. The University reserves the right to impose additional/different policies and procedures as the need may arise. Questions and concerns not addressed in this handbook should be directed to the Assistant Director of Student Engagement.
A Club Sports Team, or Club Sport, is an organization formed by individuals with a common interest to participate in a particular competitive sport. Club sports are designed to provide opportunities for students to participate in a variety of sports and recreational activities and are not a part of the NCAA intercollegiate sports programs administered by GWU Athletics. More specifically, Club sports teams are formed so the participants can learn new skills, improve existing skills, engage in competition, and enjoy recreational and social fellowship. This program emphasizes student leadership and recreational opportunities.
Many students choose club sports because their sport is not offered through the varsity or intramural sports programs or they do not wish to make the time commitment necessary for a varsity sport. Unlike intramural sports, club sports compete against other institutions of higher education from the local and regional areas on a non-varsity level. Each club sports team is a registered student organization that provides instruction, organizes practice, and schedules competitions in a specific sport. As a student organization, each team is administered, developed, and coached by students on that team. Club sports are partially funded through the University and no student-athletes are on scholarships. Our student-athletes play for the “love of the game” and the lasting relationships established with their teammates
The mission of Gardner-Webb University Club Sports is to provide students the opportunity to participate in competitive sports against intercollegiate club sports teams, with an emphasis on student leadership, development, and involvement.
