Athletics and Intramurals

Academics come first at Willamette, but that doesn't mean we don't know how to play. We offer numerous sports opportunities to keep you active and fit while you earn your degree. And when we're not on the field, we can be found in the stands, cheering on our fellow Bearcats to victory.

More than a quarter of our students are varsity athletes, choosing from among 20 different sports, but they also come to Willamette for the rigorous academic program. By developing skills of collaborative thinking, organization, perseverance and prioritization, our scholar-athletes make the most of their top-notch liberal arts education to build a successful life long after graduation.

Our athletes represent us impressively on the field as well. Willamette's NCAA Division III athletics program has produced national champions, numerous conference titles and, recently, our sixth Olympic athlete — Nick Symmonds '06, who ran the 800-meter race in Beijing.

While many students pursue varsity competition, others want a different challenge. About 97% of students join an intramural team or sports club during their time at Willamette. These student-run programs offer a flexible, friendly atmosphere of competition, and with such a wide variety of athletic groups to get involved in, it's easy to make new friends, stay active and have fun.

NCAA men's varsity sports

baseball, basketball, crew, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field

NCAA women's varsity sports

basketball, crew, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, volleyball

Club sports include:

men's and women's lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, ski and snowboard, cheer squad, men's rugby, dance team, swing club, rod and reel, bowling, backpacking, rock climbing, kayaking, cycling, scuba

Intramurals include:

soccer, grass volleyball, indoor volleyball, basketball, racquetball, flag football, indoor soccer, mushball