Walk On Varsity Sports

ClassOf18

5-Year Member
Joined
Oct 22, 2013
Messages
4
I understand that many sports at the Naval Academy are very competitive, and mostly comprised of recruited athletes. Are there any Varsity sports that accept a large number of walk-on athletes? Are there any sports where most of the varsity athletes did not play the sport in high school? How large a percentage of teams are composed of recruited athletes?

Just a high school senior who is trying to get a little more insight into the possibility of Varisty Athletics at USNA next year.
 
There are a few varsity sports you can walk-on for.

The biggest walk-on sport at Navy would be their sailing team (both offshore and dinghy). From what I hear, it is a very laid back atmosphere, but will consume a large portion of your time (3:45pm to 7:00pm/7:30pm each day, and most weekends from the start of the year to thanksgiving). Same hours in the spring (but less weekends) from after spring break to graduation. You will also participate in an ocean race, in place of one of your summer training cruises. For the offshore team, most walk-ons will start as junior varsity for the fall semester, and then get integrated into the varsity team in the spring in prep for the summer cruise. For the dinghy team, most walk-ons start as crew. For both sides of the team, its an excellent way to build your leadership skills, and your connections as well!

The other sport that comes to mind is crew. 5:00am workouts on the water, and afternoon sessions are the norm. A sport that definitely keeps you in shape!

If you struggle academically though, you may want to reconsider as it will be a large time commitment on your end (most varsity sports will be). However, it you can manage your time well, its well worth it! Being on a varsity team definitely has its perks!

Please keep in mind, just because these sports take walk-ons, doesn't mean you won't have to earn your spot on the team. You'll probably still have to go through try outs and survive a round or two of cuts, before actually walking on.
 
Many of the "traditional" team sports are very difficult to be a walk on. For example, I spoke to the varsity soccer coach, and he said "Well we only allow eight or so mids from each class on the team, and we've recruited 7 for the class of 2018. Plus we are looking at the eighth. But anything can happen." So I want to keep your eyes open the beauty of club sports and intramurals. Don't get discouraged if you really want to be on a varsity team, just understand you have to work that much harder! :thumb:
 
One of the pluses to Varsity Offshore Sailing is the summer racing. My S has done, in successive years, Marion to Bermuda, Newport to Bermuda and Marblehead to Halifax. Nothing quite like having lunch with Ross Perot in Bermuda or taking a island tour/cruise on his yacht.

Additionally, he has done New York Yacht Club regattas in Newport, RI a few times. Another great sailing venue.
 
I am currently a Plebe who walked on to the Lightweight Crew Team. I have no prior rowing experience. I just picked up the sport over Plebe Summer and now it is my favorite thing about the Academy. It is challenging, yes. But what do you expect from a varsity Division I sport? You do get in excellent shape with Crew and you'll make amazing friendships. My roommate walked onto the Varsity Offshore sailing team (no prior sailing experience) and he loves it as well.

Bottom line, don't be afraid to try out for a sport like crew, sailing, marathon team, triathlon, or another not-so-commonly-recruited-for sport at the Academy. You will not regret it.

Good luck with everything and BEAT ARMY!!!
 
Great Sport

blue17,

Looks like you have an outstanding new coach he comes from some really excellent rowing programs... Nice job in Brunswick! If you are new to the sport where in the boat have you rowed. Stern pair, motor (6, 5, 4, 3), bow pair, stroke??? All the very best to you in your Plebe year, I hope to see a regatta or two and watch the Navy team win. Don't let Havard get you by a bow ball.
 
Ex.BT.USN,

Our new coaching staff on the Lightweight side is excellent! I am a starboard oarsman and have been rowing mostly 4 & 6 seat (or 3 & 5 if the boat is reversed). I'm looking forward to an awesome Spring season and to crushing those other freshmen crews!
 
Back
Top