With warmer days ahead, Brock University Sports and Recreation is launching three Community Sport Leagues to give Niagara residents more options to stay active, meet new people and enjoy some friendly competition this spring and summer.

The programs are open to adults 18 and older, with volleyball and pickleball leagues beginning in May, and ultimate Frisbee starting in June. Most leagues run for six to nine weeks, with one game played per week.

Registration is now open online.

Associate Director of Recreation and Community Engagement Salée Johnson-Edwards said the leagues were designed to build connections and deepen engagement with the broader University community and residents across Niagara.

“This is an opportunity to expand our reach with additional adult programming, giving different folks another avenue to come to Brock and be part of the campus community,” she said. “The University offers a range of popular community-based programs and while we are already seeing youth participating in our swimming and summer camps, for example, we’re now looking to engage further with the adults bringing their kids here and with our alumni community.”

Intramurals and Community Program Co-ordinator Loren Dillane said the leagues offer a welcoming environment that appeals to both novice players looking to join a team for the first time and more seasoned athletes who want to continue playing sports they love.

The leagues range from recreational to intermediate/competitive, but the focus is on fun and inclusivity.

“Creating a community-focused atmosphere has been at the foundation of what we’re offering, bringing together advanced players and those who are still learning in a high-energy, supportive environment built on values of sportsmanship and respect,” Dillane said.

He said the programs offer a pathway for Brock student-athletes to continue to stay active and engaged in sport at the University after they graduate.

The leagues are also an opportunity for players to develop new friendships while keeping fit, Johnson-Edwards added.

“The programs provide different types of movement and opportunities for all people who may not want to play at a more competitive level but still want to get a workout in and gain the sense of community that comes from playing on a team,” she said.

As to what the future holds, Johnson-Edwards said the goal was to start small and then scale the leagues’ offerings in line with demand, making adjustments based on player feedback.

“Our focus for now is about getting everyone in the door and playing sport, and then we’ll grow together,” she said.

All volleyball, pickleball and ultimate Frisbee games are self-officiated and will be played at Brock University facilities, including the Walker Sports Complex and on grass fields beside Alumni Field.

Participants should bring athletic clothing and appropriate footwear. Equipment is typically provided, but participants may also bring their own.

Players can register as a team or an individual and can request to be placed with friends when registering individually.

Registration is now open online through the Brock Recreation website. For questions about registration, contact the Welcome Desk at 905-688-5550 x4060 or [email protected]