Mount Royal University offers more than organized campus athletics.
The university’s intramural program allows students to stay active, meet new people and compete in a flexible setting.
Unlike varsity athletics, which require tryouts and significant time commitments, intramural sports are recreational leagues open to students of all skill levels.
According to Mount Royal University’s Intramurals and its 2025–26 handbook, the league runs through both the fall and winter semesters, offering a variety of sports and skill levels. Intramurals include several sports, each with structured schedules, standings and playoffs.
Teams typically play their game once a week during the season, allowing students to participate without the time commitment required for varsity athletics.
Students can register as full teams or individually. Depending on the level, there can be between 8 and 12 teams. Players can join a free-agent team, which consists of players without a team, or form a team with friends who share the same passion for the sport.
A range of sports for different skill levels
MRU offers various intramural sports, including basketball, dodgeball, futsal, hockey, and volleyball, allowing students to try new activities or continue playing sports they enjoy.
Leagues are divided into different skill levels to ensure enjoyment for all participants.
The recreational division is designed for students who are new to a sport or looking for a more casual experience. Intermediate serves as the next level, featuring teams that play more competitively.
The advanced division is intended for players seeking a faster-paced and more competitive environment.
Students say intramurals build friendships and community
For fourth-year biology student, Kiana Vadiat, intramurals have become a consistent part of her year at MRU.
She first heard about the program during orientation but decided to join later in her degree program.
Vadiat began playing intermediate volleyball in the fall of 2025.
“When I first came to MRU, I was made aware of it during orientation, but didn’t decide to play until later on,” she said.
Now in her fourth year, Vadiat says the opportunity to play a sport she loves with friends has been a highlight.
“My favourite part is being able to play volleyball in general, since the opportunity to do so is very limited unless you play for a competitive team. I also like being able to make a team with my friends,” she said.
Brady Elchitz, a fourth-year student at the University of Calgary, has been involved with MRU intramural for three semesters now. Elchitz first learned about the league through friends. He added that the tone of competition shifts depending on the stage of the season.
Elchitz said he would recommend MRU intramural to others, especially those looking to stay active while meeting new people.
“I would recommend it to a friend for sure. It’s a great way to reach out within the community and have a good time while doing it,” he said.
Registration and requirements for participation
Students are required to pay a registration fee when signing up for leagues.
These costs vary depending on the sport and level of play. Registration must be completed before players are placed on a team and scheduled for the regular season.
Vadiat said the sign-up process was straightforward once the steps were completed online. For Elchitz, however, the experience is more complicated as a University of Calgary student.
He has to go through additional steps, including paying a semester registration fee and an extra membership fee to access the facility.
In addition, he is required to visit the facility in person to finalize his registration, at which time he qualifies for a discounted rate.
After completing payment, participants must take a short participation quiz to be eligible to compete.
The quiz covers important information about league rules, sportsmanship and creating a positive intramural environment. The material is based on the intramural handbook and ensures that all players understand expectations before the season begins.
Registrations for the next intramural season are expected to open ahead of the fall 2026 semester, giving both new and returning students another chance to get involved.