Club Sports

Fairmont State University Club Sports thrive on the dynamic energy and dedication of student members who spearhead every facet of their respective clubs. The cornerstone of a successful program lies in the commitment, engagement, and participation of our students. Fairmont State Campus Recreation sponsors 5 club sports teams, providing them with advisement, facilities, and resources to compete at the highest level against other colleges and universities.

CheerleadingDance TeamMen's RugbyWomen's Rugby

If you're enthusiastic about launching a club sport at Fairmont State University, we strongly encourage you to make direct contact with our Intramural and Club Sports Coordinator, J.R. Lowery, who can be reached at john.lowery@fairmontstate.edu or via phone at 304-333-3776.

The following is a list of responsibilities that the Department of Intramurals & Club Sports will use to assess each club team.  In order to be considered in good standing, a club team must meet all criteria and guidelines set forth.

All sport clubs will fall under the direct guidance of the Office of Intramurals & Club Sports.    The Director serves as a resource person to help provide direction and continuity to the club.  He/she can contribute valuable knowledge and experience related to University operations and policies.  The Director may be called upon to give input and/or feedback regarding the programs and activities of the club, but his/her foremost task is to facilitate self-government by the students while providing help or guidance as needed.  The Director is also responsible for verifying the club team roster which includes verifying enrollment and GPA.  While the Department provides advisement and administrative assistance to club teams, the emphasis is placed on student leadership and involvement, with the success of each club dependent on the dedication and commitment of its student leaders and team members.  Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring that a Release and Waiver of Liability/Informed Consent, Medical Information Form, Statement of Risks & Hazards Form,and all other required paperwork has been signed by each team member and submitted to the Intramural Office prior to his/her participation in club activities.
• Securing an updated, completed roster, Coach Contract Form (if necessary), and all other necessary paperwork.
• Verifying the club roster for accuracy and eligibility.  This includes enrollment and GPA status of all rostered students. (2.0 cumulative and minimum 6 credit hours)
• Assisting in the scheduling of practice and meeting facilities/times/dates and home games.
• Ensuring that all visiting teams submit a Visiting Team Roster.
• Provide equipment storage facilities.  Loan equipment as needed.
• Assist in the marketing and information distribution for all club teams.
• Being available to meet with the president (student leader) and other team members as needed.
• Acting as a sounding board for the club team in dealing with ideas and concerns.
• Advising the club team regarding University policies and procedures.
• Encouraging the development of initiative, responsibility, and leadership in club members.
• Encouraging sound financial practices for the management of club funds.  Assisting in reviewing the club budget and making recommendations as appropriate.

While each club team may choose whether it wishes to have a coach or instructor, the Department of Intramurals recommends that competitive teams have a coach who is at least 21 years of age (This may be a requirement of some leagues or conferences.) The Department of Intramurals is not responsible for the selection, training, supervision, or compensation of coaches or instructors. They should be selected on the basis of their expertise and experience in the sport, certifications as appropriate, personal references, and their perceived ability to relate to club members. It is suggested that the club provide the coach/instructor with a position description that includes his/her responsibilities and authority. Several forms, including a Coach/Instructor Application and a Club and Coach/Instructor Agreement, are available for club use.

The responsibilities of the coach/instructor should include:

• Following risk control and safety guidelines as established by the club, the Department of Intramurals, and/or any other governing bodies for the sport or activity.
• Coordinating practices/classes and providing instruction and training that will help club members to develop and improve their skills.
• Providing on-court/on-field management for competitions.
• Promoting fair play and sportsmanship at all practice/class sessions and competitions.
• Abiding by all applicable rules and regulations of Fairmont State University and any conference, league, or association to which the club may belong.
• Conducting himself/herself in a professional manner that will reflect positively upon the club and Fairmont State University.
• Ensuring that all required documents are completed and turned into the Department of Intramurals & Recreation

If you have questions regarding the Club Sports Program, please contact J.R. Lowery at John.Lowery@fairmontstate.edu or (304) 333-3776.

All forms are located in ImLeagues and should be completed electronically.

• Club Information Sheet
• Club Roster Form
• Medical Release/Code of Conduct/Statement of Risks & Hazards
• Medical Information Form
• Accident / Incident Report
• Travel Roster
• Trip Planning Form
• Visiting Team Waiver