Everyone must participate in a sport. The D-1 teams usually have recruited players. I don't know how that is done or if they fill all vacancies during the year. Of course not everyone is a recruited athlete at WP, so you look for something that is of interest to you. In order of how a cadet fulfills their requirement in my view is;
1. Something they know or have played
2. Something they enjoy and have desire or passion
3. Something that offers the most athos
4. You have a friend and want to join them
There are so many options to keep you busy. The danger can be, too much fun stuff and falling behind on academics. This can be a real danger. Your TAC will review, maintain your schedule and be a watchful eye over you. D-1 level teams have tutors that travel with the team to help them with lessons they are missing and homework. You must understand WP follows the Thayer method of study. Frankly, I don't know how they keep up with the academic demands and juggle their military and athletic schedules. On average a Cadet carries 18 to 21 units every semester. I think they power through it just because of their youth.
Youth wasted on the young.......if I had a second chance.......I.......
Push Hard, Press Forward