It seems as though many students don’t know much about club sports at the University of Kansas.

Nicole Walters, Shawnee sophomore, could name only six of the at least 26 different club sports at the University.

“They never publicize their events, ever, unless the people on the teams do it themselves,” she said.

The general opinion among many students was there was a lack of advertisements by club sports around campus.

However, while many may not know about club sports, participation is fairly high. Jason Krone, associate director of recreation services and director of club sports, said there were more than 900 participants in the overall program.

Krone said the information was out there, but people had to pay attention.

“We provide them with opportunities to talk about their clubs whether it is at an info fair, during Hawk Week, or even putting up a table in the Recreation Center where they can have 3000-5000 people walk by it in just a day,” Krone said of how he helps club leaders. “This is their club and how they grow is up to them.”

Club sports are not only a way to meet people and a reason to take trips out of town.

“I think the obvious advantage is that members of the clubs get to continue participating in a sport that they love, whether through practicing only or competing on a regional or national level.” Krone said.

It isn’t just about playing games, though.

“Other advantages can include belonging to a group with like-interests that can help break down a large university into a small group in which they feel comfortable,” Krone said.

There are also many options to choose from, including cycling fencing and even clubs as obscure as Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art.

Students can go to www.reacreation.ku.edu, go to programs & activities, then sports clubs and finally clicking on current clubs to get involved. All club sports that Recration Services sponsors are listed there.