Written by Simran Mehta
Ever wondered what Intramural Leagues are really like? We talked to players across campus to give you a closer look at what these leagues offer and why you should join this season!
Intramurals are one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get involved at UBC. Whether you’re looking for a weekly burst of energy, a chance to stay active between classes, or a fun way to spend time with friends, Intramural Leagues offer a space where everyone can play, regardless of experience or skill level. These leagues don’t just give students a place to compete; they create an environment where people can unwind, connect, and build community.
The different league tiers are designed to create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where students can enjoy recreational sport in a low-pressure setting. Some players register with entire friend groups, while others join alone and meet their teammates for the first time on game day. No matter how you sign up, these leagues make Intramurals accessible, social, and fun for everyone.
What league categories and tiers are offered?
Mixed Leagues
Mixed Leagues require teams to have a balanced gender ratio, with a maximum of half of the players playing at one time being self-identifying men. This structure creates an inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming atmosphere for all participants.
Mixed leagues are a great choice if you’re looking for a fun blend of competition, teamwork, and community. Sports commonly offered include volleyball, basketball, soccer, flag football, futsal, ice hockey and ultimate, each available across multiple tiers so players can choose the pace and competitiveness that fit them best.
Open Leagues
Open Leagues have no gender requirements, making them one of the most flexible and accessible intramural options. Teams can form freely, which is perfect for friend groups, residence floors, coworkers, or anyone hoping to join a team without restrictions. Popular Open League sports include soccer, volleyball, basketball, dodgeball, futsal, pickleball, roundnet, and badminton, each designed to welcome a wide range of players, from complete beginners to long-time athletes.
Women Leagues
Women’s Leagues provide a space for self-identifying women players, and trans women are fully welcome and included. These leagues offer a supportive environment focused on community, confidence, and skill development while still delivering the fun and competitiveness of intramural play.
Understanding the Tiers
To help players find the right fit, each sport is offered across different tiers:
Tier 1: High-intensity, competitive play for experienced athletes
Tier 2: Balanced competition, great for intermediate players
Tier 3: Casual and beginner-friendly, focused on fun and building skills
These tiers ensure that all participants, whether they are new to a sport or experienced competitors, can enjoy a level of play that matches their comfort and ability, making intramural leagues a space where every student can find their fit: structured competition, casual weekly games, inclusive team environments, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people.
What Do Participants Say?
Players in Leagues come from different programs, year levels, and sporting backgrounds, yet they all share similar experiences: supportive teammates, fun weekly games, and opportunities to build community. We asked several players about their experiences this season. Here’s what they shared:
Why Did You Decide to Join?
Many players joined to stay active during the term, reconnect with a sport they loved, or simply because their friends were signing up too.
“Playing in the Open soccer league filled the gap after I stopped playing competitively. It brought back the teamwork and excitement I’d been missing.
“I joined because my friends and IM staff members were playing too, it seemed like a great way to stay active throughout the week.”
How Would You Describe the Vibes?
Overall, players describe the leagues as welcoming, fun, and the perfect blend of competition and community.
“Everyone seems to be there for the same reason, to stay active, have fun, and relive that competitive edge in a relaxed setting.”
“The vibe is really chill. Most teams are super friendly as well!”
“It’s competitive in a fun way, not a stressful way.”
Favourite Moments?
From buzzer-beating goals to sunny afternoon matches, players shared small but memorable highlights from their season.
“Scoring those last-second goals in a hard-fought match, celebrating with teammates who’ve become close friends, that’s unbeatable!”
“Not one specific moment, but I really miss playing on those sunny days earlier in the term.”
“One highlight was a particularly strong rally in badminton that demonstrated how much our team had improved over the term.”
Feeling Connected to Campus
For many, joining intramurals helped make UBC feel smaller and more familiar, building friendships that extend beyond the field.
“Playing intramurals made campus feel a lot smaller and more familiar. I connected with students from different faculties, there’s a real sense of community.”
“Intramurals helped me meet random people when we needed subs… plus working as an AD adds another layer of community.”
Are All Skill Levels Welcome?
Players emphasized how accessible the leagues are thanks to multiple tiers, supportive teammates, and a culture that prioritizes fun.
“The league is designed so anyone can join, whether you’re seasoned or just starting out. People are supportive and welcoming.”
“With three tiers, players can compete at their own level, making it fair and fun for everyone.”
What Would You Tell Someone Considering Joining?
“Definitely try it. It’s a great way to take a break from coursework and even learn a new sport.”
“You don’t need to be good, just show up and it’ll become the highlight of your week.”
Why Should You Join?
Beyond the games themselves, Leagues offer meaningful benefits:
- Meet new people from across campus
- Stay active during busy academic weeks
- Build teamwork and communication skills
- Boost your mental well-being
- Join a supportive, inclusive community
Whether you’re competitive, casual, or completely new to the sport, there’s a place for you.
So, Should You Join?
Absolutely! Leagues have something for everyone. Whether you’re competitive, casual, or just looking for an active break from coursework, these leagues offer a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment to connect with others and stay active. Every season brings unique teams, new friendships, and memorable moments—from close matches to post-game hangouts that quickly become weekly traditions.
If you’re new to intramurals, these leagues are one of the easiest ways to get started. You’ll find patient teammates, flexible tiers, and staff members who are always happy to help. And if you’re returning for another season, you already know how energizing it feels to walk onto the court or field as part of a community that shows up for each other.
Whether you’re signing up with a full team or joining as a Free Agent, there’s a place for everyone—from absolute beginners to long-time players.
And if you’re planning to join solo, don’t miss Free Agent Night! It’s one of the best ways to meet potential teammates, join a team on the spot, and get comfortable with the league before the season begins.
- January 7: WTWW Free Agent Night
- January 8: General Free Agent Night
Learn more about Free Agent Night here
You can also check out the Free Agent Night recap video here
Registration opens November 24 at 1PM, so gather your team, explore your favourite sports, or take a chance on something new. Get ready for another exciting term of UBC Intramurals—we hope to see you out on the court or field soon!