Within the rich tapestry of the Athletic Union, there are many clubs and teams which need little introduction. However, there are also other university clubs which cater to the less mainstream sports; clubs which, for the most part, go unnoticed by the larger student body. As many people are unaware of the location of the AU notice boards, which contain the essential information and news for each club, many clubs are unable to attract new members post-freshers’ week. In addition to this, not all clubs compete in BUCS events, which seem to increasingly be the standard by which a club’s success is determined. Here is a quick guide to some of the AU’s lesser-known clubs and how you can get involved.
The University’s Boat Club is one of the oldest clubs in the AU, established in 1947, however despite this, there is still confusion among students as to what exactly they do. Stuart Beards, president of the club explains, “most people seem to think that boat club involves sailing boats, however we are in fact boats as in rowing boats”. The club has a rather unusual setup, sharing facilities with the community rowing club after the AU decided to cut support. Stuart explains, “the boat house is situated on the river Hull, by the wind turbine in Oak Road Playing Fields. Club members usually row at the weekends and during the week depending on the tide, and the students run two circuit sessions in the Sports Centre on Tuesdays and Fridays.” If you would like to know about how you can join the club, visit their website www.hubc.co.uk/joiningus or turn up to a training session.
If flat rivers aren’t your thing, the University also boasts a Canoe Club, with a very different take on river travel; club secretary Charlie Rowland explains “We mainly do white water river trips involving rapids of varying degrees of challenge to suit the group’s needs. We also have an indoor pool and outdoor flat water training.” For those who are interested but apprehensive, Charlie insists no prior canoe experience is required, “we cater for all abilities and have great social events. Training sessions occur weekly to build up people’s confidence and we have been very good at getting people up to a high standard in a small amount of time. We don’t expect people to be paddling hard rapids straight away and as this can be a high risk sport, group leaders are always conscious of the group’s ability and tailor trips and sessions to their needs”. Those interested can email club president Chris Wreakes (wreakesy@hotmail.com) or check the club’s Facebook page.
Many people have become aware of the University Ice Hockey team after their success this season; however for those who prefer the less aggressive ice sports the university also has a Figure Skating Club. Club Representative and next year’s club President Alex McClean, was quick to stress that the club is open to anyone. “A lot of people are put off thinking that they have to have some experience of skating which isn’t true. We introduce people to figure skating, starting from beginner to competition level. We have biweekly training sessions taught by professional coaches and competitive skaters.” If you are interested you can visit their facebook page, contact the club President (07891282896) or turn up to a practice session, which begin Thursdays at 7:15pm in the Blades Bar at Hull Arena.
The University is also home to a Trampoline Club. Trampolining is a sport which everybody can do to some degree and, as club president Helen Fox explains, there is no previous experience required to join. “People worry that everyone will be really good and that they will look silly. Trampoline Club takes people of all abilities and people who have never bounced before. We train twice a week and compete twice a year, including a tour to Ireland. We don’t have strict training sessions; if you want to come along for a bit of fun that is fine and if you want to train properly, we have qualified coaches allowing you to learn new moves”. Those who would like to join the club can turn up to training, which is in the Sports Centre Tuesdays 7pm and Sundays 11am, or visit the Facebook group.
There are just a few of the clubs in the AU, and if you would like to know about more, visit the AU notice boards which are situated on the 1st floor of the Union next to the JamRadio studio.
Sam Haidemenos
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