Dear Coach Bryant:
My daughter really wants to row in college, but she hasn’t gotten much traction from the varsity coaches she’s reached out to. We’re starting to wonder if we should have her look more seriously at club programs instead. That’s left us torn — worried that club sports won’t be competitive enough for her, but also worried that if she doesn’t embrace club sports, she’ll miss out on exploring schools that could otherwise be a great fit. How do we help her evaluate whether a club program could actually be a great option for her?
Conflicted in Cary
Dear Conflicted:
College club sports should almost always be part of the conversation. Too many families dismiss club programs because they assume they’re simply a step below varsity. In reality, some club teams compete at an incredibly high level, travel nationally, and provide a college athletic experience that is every bit as rewarding. Others are much more recreational. The key is understanding that the label “club” tells you very little about the actual experience. Instead of asking whether varsity or club is better, ask which program is the best fit for your daughter’s goals.
Understand How the Programs Differ
Varsity athletic programs are part of the college’s athletics department. Coaches are university employees, recruiting is formal, and qualified recruits may receive admissions support through the athletic department. Student-athletes also typically receive athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, academic support, equipment, uniforms, and team-funded travel.
Club sports usually operate through Campus Recreation or Student Affairs rather than the athletics department. Club coaches generally do not influence admissions decisions, and participation should not be viewed as an admissions advantage. Some clubs have paid coaches, strong alumni support, and generous funding, while others are entirely student-run.
Evaluate the Team—Not the Label
Every club program is different. Some compete in organized national leagues with demanding practice schedules, competitive tryouts, and extensive travel. Others meet a few times each week and focus more on recreation and community. That’s why it’s so important to ask questions.
How often does the team practice? Who pays for travel and uniforms? Is there a paid coach or is the team student-run? How competitive is the league? How long is the season? Are athletes recruited for the team?
The answers to those questions will tell you far more than whether the team is called “varsity” or “club.”
Choose the College Experience You Want
If your daughter truly wants the structure, resources, and commitment that come with varsity athletics, it may be worth expanding her college list to include more varsity opportunities. But if she loves her sport and wants to continue competing while also prioritizing academics, internships, study abroad, or other aspects of college life, a strong club program may actually provide a better overall experience.
Don’t let the absence of a varsity team automatically eliminate a college from consideration. Some of the happiest former student-athletes I know competed for outstanding club programs because the overall college fit was exactly right.
The Reality
The reality is that varsity and club describe how a program operates—not necessarily how competitive it is. If your daughter isn’t receiving the varsity recruiting interest she hoped for, don’t assume her opportunity to compete in college is over. Instead, widen the search and evaluate each program on its own merits. Some club teams offer an exceptional athletic experience, while some varsity programs may not be the right fit academically, socially, or athletically. Instead of asking only, “Should I play club or varsity sports in college?” encourage her to ask, “Which college and athletic experience will help me thrive?” That shift in perspective often leads to a better long-term decision.
Best,
Coach Bryant
