The University of Arizona has announced that five sports teams that were competing as club teams will now be re-designated under a new classification: Elite Team Sports.
This classification elevates select club sports programs, allowing them to more actively recruit students and coaching staff, strengthen fundraising efforts, and foster stronger connections with alumni.
Overseen by Campus Recreation, the designation includes men's rugby, men's and women's wheelchair basketball, and men's and women's ice hockey. Each of the five teams will work together under the Elite Team Sports banner by combining resources and sharing best practices.
"I want to provide an opportunity for these elite student-athletes to compete at the highest level they possibly can, because they deserve the very best of what we have to offer at the University of Arizona," said Troy Vaughn, executive director of Campus Recreation. "Club teams have been a part of the U of A for decades, with long, successful histories and incredible support from their alumni. While our teams may not compete in the NCAA, this is a great opportunity to show alumni and the campus community just how important these teams are, and what they bring to the university."
By establishing Elite Team Sports, Vaughn said, the U of A is developing a highly competitive middle point between club and intercollegiate athletics that reflects the equally competitive nature of those select club teams.
"Each of these teams competes at the national level and creates a large buzz in the community," he said. "Our hockey teams are in one of the most competitive leagues outside of NCAA athletics, and our men's team recruit the same players as Division III schools. Our wheelchair basketball teams have both won national championships and will host the tournament next spring. Rugby plays against varsity teams like Army and Cal, and they are highly ranked. We need to do everything we can to ensure that we attract the best possible student-athlete."
