Athletics & Recreation

Students practice yoga outdoors

“In my long experience at Swarthmore, we have always played to win, but not for the winning.”
—William Hyde Appleton, Swarthmore president, 1889–1891

A liberal arts education challenges students not only to hone their intellectual curiosity, but also to commit themselves to habits of physical and mental wellness. At Swarthmore, 22 varsity sports and numerous offerings of club sports, student activity groups, and physical education courses offer a wealth of opportunities to pursue a healthy and physically active lifestyle. 

Swarthmore also supports holistic well-being for each individual, and collectively for our campus community, with programs and collaborations across the College. Learn more about Be Well@Swarthmore.

Go, Garnet!

The Swarthmore College Garnet compete in the Centennial Conference against Division III peers. Our program boasts a long and decorated history with eight national championships and more than 330 All-Americans since the 1860s. Swarthmore student-athletes are not only successful in their respective sports; since 1903, 17 of the College’s 28 Rhodes Scholars have competed in varsity athletics.

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Swarthmore memorabilia

Kenji Yoshii '20

“Being a student-athlete teaches you how to be responsible for the well-being of others and to make personal sacrifices for their betterment. Like a liberal arts education, it fosters a flexible mindset that prepares us for our future.”

—Kenji Yoshii ’20

Student in white jersey receives high fives from teammates

Men’s Varsity Sports

Men's swim team with trophy in pool

Women’s Varsity Sports

Volleyball team celebrates in dog pile

Club Sports

A club sport is a chartered organization that is run by students who have a common interest in a particular activity for competitive, recreational, or instructional purposes. There are currently seven groups recognized as club sports at Swarthmore: men's and women's badminton, men’s and women's fencing, men’s and women's rugby, men's and women's squash, and men’s and women’s Ultimate Frisbee.

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Fencing in Lamb-Miller Fieldhouse

Club Sports: Richelle Robinson '20

“Club teams do a great job of maintaining and building a sense of community through traditions, social events, and tournaments, which are great ways to bond and make connections with your teammates.”

—Richelle Robinson ’20

Student holds rugby ball outdoors in rain

Be Well @ Swarthmore

Be Well @ Swarthmore supports holistic well-being for each individual, and collectively for our campus community, with programs and collaborations across the College.

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Students do yoga in amphitheatre

Spaces and Places

Our facilities, including the state-of-the-art Matchbox fitness center and newly designed Clothier Baseball Field, help community members reach their full potential as they strive for mental, physical, and spiritual wellness.

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Outdoor view of Matchbox fitness center