At the Department of Intramural and Recreational Sports we're not just about having fun in leagues, tournaments, special events or facility use. We're about providing opportunities for the development of special skills like leadership, time management, group dynamic skills and for the development of a sense of ownership between participants and the university. It is a common belief among higher education professionals that the establishment of this sense of ownership or belonging is one of the critical requirements of a successful collegiate experience and significantly improves the rate of retention and academic success for those who do. Through collaboration with other areas of Campus Life, participation in our programs will also help you find out about interesting opportunities in other parts of the campus community.

Through participation in this rich and diverse program, participants can expect to develop:

• Complex cognitive skills such as reflection and critical thinking.
• The ability to apply knowledge to practical problems encountered in ones vocation, family or other areas of life.
• An understanding and appreciation of human differences.
• Practical competence skills such as decision making and conflict resolution.
• A coherent integrated sense of identity, self-esteem, confidence, integrity, aesthetic sensibilities and civil responsibilities.
• Leadership through the group dynamics associated with the organization of team functions
• Time management skills through the required organization of daily, weekly and monthly obligations
• Development of a sense of community or ownership between the participant and the university
• Acquisition of lifetime sport skills
• Acquisition of lifetime occupational skills through the sports officiating program

Dare to Play Fair is our program designed to promote sportsmanship and fair play primarily in the structured league, tournament and special event area of our program. It is our belief that programs where sportsmanship principles are stressed while threatening atmospheres are suppressed will foster the development of other important skills and qualities as well as promote the ideal of a campus community through the creation of an inclusive culture that welcomes participation by all. All teams participating in any program must sign the following statement prior to starting play. The spirit of the project is also carried out throughout the year by being included on all pieces of program publicity and awards given to winning teams.

"The goal of the Intramural and Recreational Sports Department is to provide quality recreational sport programming that fosters an atmosphere of respect and appreciation within the diverse population that comprises the University of Louisville. Participation in recreational sports will provide many opportunities to interact with a very diverse group of people that make up the University of Louisville community. In an institution of higher education it is imperative to always practice the highest standards of personal conduct and integrity in order to develop and establish an ethical learning environment for all students, faculty and staff. All intramural programs are open to any current student, faculty or staff member but it is important to remember that participation in these programs is a privilege that can be revoked at any time. Behavior that contributes to the creation of a threatening, dangerous or harassing atmosphere for other participants, spectators, game officials or intramural staff will not be tolerated. The Department of Intramural Sports is committed to protecting the opportunities for all university students, faculty and staff to receive the benefits of participation in a program that promotes a healthy and inclusive atmosphere."

"The recreational sports facilities of the University of Louisville are intended to be places of enjoyment, socialization and recreational fulfillment for the university community. Everyone can have fun with some type of activity if we remember the basic purpose of play and recreation. Good sportsmanship is a basic requirement at all time. Whether associated with structured activities or informal recreation, all participants of activities share a responsibility of mutual respect for other participants as well as the facility. Failure to conform to an acceptable level of respect and sportsmanship may render participants ineligible to utilize recreational sports facilities. The Department of Intramural and Recreational Sports may impose restrictions including placing participants on a probationary status, suspending participants from the use of facilities or making referrals to the university discipline process."

Mission Statement

The Department of Intramural and Recreational Sports operates under the following mission statement. It's purpose is to provide guidance and a general philosophy of intentional diversity in programming throughout the entire program.

"The Department of Intramural and Recreational Sports is a rich resource for participants who wish to pursue a healthy lifestyle. Through participation in various programs, participants can derive a multitude of personal benefits including improved levels of physical fitness and wellness, improved opportunities for social interaction, improved time management skills, the opportunity to engage in a group dynamic setting, improved dedication and motivational skills, the opportunity for a healthy means of stress relief, as well as the creation of a sense of ownership and belonging between students and the University of Louisville."