Written by Emily Sugiyama
Athletics are undeniably a huge part of the Husky experience. In fact, outside of Washington, UW is possibly more commonly referred to by its mascot. The Huskies have quite a tradition of football, and the games bring massive flocks of students, alumni, and local fans out to cheer. Basketball is definitely growing in popularity, and both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have had growing success in recent years. Besides football and basketball, which are the most watched and talked-about sports at UW, plenty of other sports get a lot of attention and some big crowd turnout. Gymnastics, volleyball, and soccer are all popular for spectators. Crew is perhaps the sport with the most history at the UW, and every year, masses of people turn out for races at the Montlake Cut on Lake Washington.
UW sports are typical events for friends to enjoy together. Many students get a big group together and go out to cheer for the Huskies, whatever the season or sport. If students don’t participate in varsity sports, many of them play intramurals. Some students keep a very busy schedule with class and a couple intramural leagues per quarter. Most people say that being involved in intramural sports really changes their UW experience for the better. Intramurals are a great way to meet people and stay involved. Students rally around games and sporting events, and it’s definitely an experience of camaraderie and school spirit. As UW fans love to say, “Real dawgs wear purple,” and over-excited dawgs have purple and gold pumping through their veins.