For many university students, getting a post-secondary education can be a stressful thing and learning to deal with that stress is a vital part of how well you will feel on a daily basis. A great way to bust stress is through some recreational physical activity, which can be found in a wide range of Campus Rec activities.

Campus Rec is perfect for everyone; it features competitive sports and divisions for those who are looking for it, but it also offers beginner and non-competitive levels for a variety of sports, from curling and dodgeball to yoga and figure skating. It’s never too late to get involved or try a new sport.

With leagues and beginner classes just one night a week, the time commitment isn’t as serious as other leagues so students won’t have to worry about it affecting their studies. All things considered, Campus Rec sports is the best option available to students who are still looking to stay competitive with sports, as well as non-competitive students looking to stay in shape or try new things.

Campus Rec’s Learn-to’s have caught on in the last few years and offer a great way to experience a sport or activity for the first time. There are many classes, including belly dancing, kayaking, scuba diving, squash and social dancing. These are a great way to learn a new skill or refresh your memory on one.

Third year Edwards School of Business student Luke Melnyk has captained his own football and dodgeball teams as well as played on an inner tube water polo team through Campus Rec. He fully recommends the stress-relieving activity for any university student.

“It’s been great, I’ve made a lot of memories and met a lot of great people I wouldn’t have otherwise,” Melnyk said. “Playing Campus Rec is a fantastic way to clear your mind and stay active. I can’t emphasize enough how much it has helped me through the tough school year. Additionally, it’s affordable and only takes about an hour out of your night.” 

All Campus Rec sports are offered through the College of Kinesiology and you have to meet one criteria to be eligible — you must be an enrolled U of S student. A small registration fee is also required, but in comparison to other places the prices are very affordable.

For example, playing in the Adult Safe Hockey League at local rinks in Saskatoon costs around $9,000 for a team for the winter, while Campus Rec is around $500 per team for the season, all while having the convenience of playing on campus.

Third-year engineering student Jonah Tupper has participated in Campus Rec during his years at the U of S, partaking in sports such as dodgeball, volleyball and hockey. He finds it to be a very cost-effective way to still have fun.

“It’s been a great time. It’s a very good way to stay active, while being able to hang out with friends and have a good time,” Tupper said. “I have played in other hockey and football leagues of Saskatoon and the costs are much higher.”

Tupper, who is always looking to try new sports, would like to give curling and futsal a try. He has just one piece of advice for students considering trying out Campus Rec.

“I’m going to quote Shia Labeouf here and say DO IT.”

Registration forms can be picked up in the College of Kinesiology general office, but you better hurry. Some deadlines are already fast approaching and forms must be handed in by the first few weeks of school.

For more information follow @CampusRecUofS on Twitter for up-to-date information on all leagues and events.