Most colleges have a full range of intercollegiate teams, so you can attend sports competitions year-round. At larger schools, more popular sports, like football and basketball, may attract fans from all over the area. Smaller sports will also attract a group of fans. While being a spectator does not provide you with much exercise, it is a great way to show school spirit, to have fun with friends, and to cheer your school's team on to victory.

At smaller schools, you will still find intense intercollegiate rivalries. You are also likely to have free admission for every contest. But the biggest advantage is that you are likely to know one or two of the athletes representing your school. Perhaps the star quarterback was in your English class your first semester or the starting forward on the basketball team was your freshman-year roommate. This can personalize an event for you, and your support will mean a lot to your athlete friends. Another advantage of a small college athletic program is the opportunity for good seats. You may be able to walk in just before the game begins and still get an excellent seat in perfect view of all the action.

Attending sporting events is more than just an opportunity for you to express school spirit or support your friends. A soccer or football game offers a chance to get out of your residence hall and away from your studies for a few hours. If the weather is nice, a football game is a great outdoor event. And if the weather is cold or rainy, a basketball game could be a great way to get out of your comfort zone while still being involved on campus. By attending sporting events you may also end up in some photos featured in a local newspaper, on the campus website, or in the college yearbook, providing you with a fun memento of your college years, or something you can send home to your family. Whatever your motivation, take advantage of these opportunities and support your teams.