Mission
The mission of University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Campus Recreation is to provide inclusive facilities and programs that enhance the experiences and well-being of the community. By cultivating a sense of belonging and empowerment among the Roadrunner community, Campus Recreation plays a crucial role in helping students from all backgrounds thrive, offering spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental and social growth.
Programming Highlights
Organized Outdoor Trips
These trips allow students to engage in paddling, climbing, biking and backpacking activities. Some trips are instructional, helping participants develop skills for future independent adventures. Other excursions are more social, providing a relaxed atmosphere for students to explore local San Antonio trails with peers. The trips encourage students to step out of their comfort zones, experience new environments and foster connections.
Outdoor Resource Center
Outdoor Pursuits offers an equipment lending program that allows students to borrow gear for outdoor exploration. Students can rent items such as tents, sleeping bags, bikes and kayaks at no cost for up to seven days. This program removes the financial barrier from outdoor recreation and encourages students to get out and explore.
Demo Kitchen
A free instructional series teaches students practical cooking techniques and emphasizes the importance of nutrition and cost-effective meal planning. Each session is designed to make healthy eating accessible, providing students with detailed cost sheets and nutritional breakdowns of recipes from a registered dietician. This program imparts valuable life skills and fosters community as students cook and learn together in a fun, interactive environment.
Group Exercise Lotería
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the department hosts an attendance incentive that blends physical activity with a classic Mexican game. Students receive a card with selected Group X classes and win prizes by getting their card stamped and completing patterns such as columns, rows or blackouts.
Emerging Leaders Institute
Every student employee seeking leadership roles must complete the program before assuming their position. The hybrid program combines Microsoft Teams for online learning modules, including a Clifton Strengths assessment, resume reviews and leadership training. These sessions cover topics including applying strengths to leadership, time management, emotional intelligence, holding peers accountable and Verbal Judo, a technique for managing difficult conversations.
The program concludes with mock interviews conducted by professional staff, ensuring they complete the program prepared to excel in their new leadership roles.
Description of Facilities
Aquatic Center
- Features a heated lap pool and leisure pool.
- Provides students with exercise and stress relief options.
Rec Field Complex
- A central hub for student athletic activities and campus-wide events, like April 2024’s total eclipse viewing party.
- Offers ample outdoor space for intramural and club sports.
- Contains a 54-foot Rockwall which is coming up on its one-year renovation anniversary.
- The Rockwall offers a range of climbing experiences for all skill levels while encouraging students to challenge their limits and build confidence.
Outdoor Resource Center
- Provides the tools and equipment necessary for students to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding region.
- From camping gear to kayaks, students can access everything they need for outdoor adventures.
Fun Facts
- University of Texas at San Antonio is one of 22 universities in the U.S. designated as a R1 research institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution.
- Nearly 45% of UTSA’s undergrads are first-generation college students.
- Campus Recreation offers Unwind Before the Grind, an initiative designed to reduce stress and promote wellness in the weeks leading up to finals. Activities include Therapy Dog sessions, DIY aromatherapy workshops, healthy snack giveaways and Art of Wellbeing sessions in collaboration with UTSA Wellbeing Services.
- The department has a lost and found clothing donation program with all unclaimed clothing donated to the Roadrunner Pantry. When student staff are awarded professional development funds from the department to attend conferences or obtain certifications, they must also volunteer at the pantry.
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