Athletics are an extremely influential part of Michigan State University, but that’s to be expected from a Big Ten school with a national following and several national championship titles. Whether it is basketball, hockey, or football games, students across the campus gather their friends, don their favorite green and white apparel, and root for the MSU Spartans throughout the season. Sports are a major part of campus life for most MSU students, but most are more than spectators. Each semester, MSU’s IM facilities offer a variety of sports for everyone from beginners to hardcore athletes. In the fall, the IM facilities offer basketball, soccer, and volleyball, along with hockey, badminton, and individual golf and tennis tournaments. Other sports, including inner tube water polo, lacrosse, softball, and wallyball are available in the spring. With 50 additional club sports to choose from, many students find an activity or two they are interested in. Fitness classes are available at all three of the IMs. IM West is the largest building of the three. It houses 12 racquetball courts, four squash courts, a weight room, and seven basketball courts, as well as both indoor and outdoor pools.
Also included in IM West are two tennis courts, four volleyball courts, six badminton courts, and an aerobics room. IM East has four basketball courts (also used for volleyball and badminton) eight paddleball courts, two squash courts, and an indoor track. IM-Sports Circle has an indoor pool and fitness room, two gyms, and two dance studios available to students. Demonstration Hall is also open to students, usually for indoor soccer and roller hockey. Near the Hall and Munn Ice Arena are two large fields that can be used for soccer, touch football games, or softball. There is currently talk of building a rock wall in one of the athletic facilities, as well.