About Vikes Athletics
With 88 national titles to its name, the Vikes athletics program takes pride in being one of the best in Canada. The Vikes began interuniversity competition in 1969, but athletic teams at Victoria College date all the way back to the 1930s.
The Vikes are members of three university sports organizations - U SPORTS (formerly CIS), Canada West University Athletic Association (CWUAA), and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
The Vikes also compete in the BC Premier rugby and field hockey leagues, and compete annually in the Canadian University Rowing championship and Golf Canada's Canadian University/College Golf championship.
University of Victoria
The University of Victoria, one of Canada’s leading universities, provides both students and faculty with a unique learning environment. UVic has earned a reputation for commitment to research, scholarship and co-op education. The university is widely recognized for its innovative and responsive programs, interdisciplinary and international initiatives, and a diverse and welcoming learning community. Maclean’s Magazine has ranked UVic as one of the top three comprehensive universities in the nation for three consecutive years. Explore UVic
Athlete Eligibility
Specific eligibility requirements vary between U SPORTS and NAIA sports, but at a minimum Vikes student-athletes must be enrolled in a minimum 4.5 units per term and maintain full-time status throughout the year. However, each student-athlete’s situation is unique. Detailed eligibility rules can be found on each governing body’s website, or you can talk to your coach. U SPORTS Eligibility, NAIA Eligibility
Financial Awards
Vikes athletes are eligible for a variety of sport-specific and general awards that are handed out based upon athletic, academic and leadership criteria. Funds for these awards are provided through the generosity of department and university sponsors, the provincial government, and department fundraising initiatives. Each team is allocated a certain amount of funding for athletic awards and the maximum award that a student may receive is the equivalent of tuition plus mandatory fees. Athletic Awards, UVic General Awards
Media Coverage
Competing in a market with just few other professional sports teams, the Vikes attract considerable coverage from Victoria’s expansive media market and across the province. The Vikes also have great relationships with local media outlets including CTV Vancouver Island, CHEK TV, the Times Colonist newspaper, Black Press News and radio stations such as CFAX, Kool FM and 100.3 The Q!
Facility Useage
Each UVic student is granted a Vikes Active Living base membership with a valid ONECard. Membership information can be found here. Varsity athletes also receive access privileges to the CARSA Fitness Weight Centre.
Athletic Therapy, Physiotherapy & Massage Therapy
The UVic Sports Injury Clinic is located in the lower level of CARSA and a certified athletic therapist is available to all varsity athletes for consultation and treatment. UVic Physiotherapy, offers treatment of muscular-skeletal injuries, guidance for strength and conditioning programs, digital muscular evaluations, and development of rehabilitation programs. Also, available for a fee outside of varsity fees is a registered massage therapist.
