Supporting Your Recreation and Wellness
To keep providing the recreation services you love, CSUCI is proposing an increase to the Recreation and Athletics Fee. This fee hasn’t increased since 2013-2014, but rising costs and growing demand for programs make this change necessary.
Over the years, student assistant wages have increased almost 8% annually, and general costs for equipment, goods, and services continue to rise. To maintain a safe and updated environment, we’ve had to make operational adjustments and invest in equipment upgrades. Without a fee increase, it will be harder to sustain or expand programs at the Rec Center, Boating Center, and other facilities, which could impact their quality and accessibility.
What Students Are Saying
Campus Recreation plays a big role in student success and well-being. Students who use recreation programs often perform better academically and are more likely to graduate:
- Retention Rates
- 2022-2023: Students using Campus Recreation had a 63% one-year retention rate compared to 53.5% for those who didn’t. Fall-Spring retention was 89% versus 75.1%.
- 2021-2022: Students using Campus Recreation had a 66% one-year retention rate compared to 55.6% for those who didn’t. Fall-Spring retention was 91% versus 77.8%.
Why the Recreation and Athletics Fee Matters
The Recreation and Athletics Fee is a mandatory campus fee that’s part of your total cost of attendance. Financial aid can cover it for eligible students, helping reduce financial stress while ensuring access to important programs like fitness classes, sports clubs, and outdoor adventures. By investing in these resources, CSUCI can enhance your college experience, build community, and support your personal and academic success.
Pros of Raising the Recreation and Athleticss Fee
- Improved Access and Quality: More funding will ensure well-maintained equipment, safe facilities, and updated resources for fitness, intramural sports, sports clubs, and adventure programs.
- Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs: Students will save on fees for the Rec Center, Boating Center, fitness classes, and sports clubs.
- Expanded Programs: Funding will support new and expanded sports clubs, outdoor adventures, and recreational programs to meet student interests.
- Better Support for Students: More resources mean enhanced campus life, fostering self-care, community, and a stronger CI identity.
- Promotes Equity: Ensures all students, regardless of background, can participate in recreation programs without financial barriers.
Cons of Raising the Recreation and Athletics Fee
- Financial Strain: Some students, especially those not eligible for financial aid, may feel added financial pressure.
- Uneven Benefits: Not all students use recreation services, which might raise concerns about fairness.
- Higher Overall Costs: Any fee increase adds to the cost of attendance, which could affect some students’ financial situations.
What Happens if the Fee Doesn’t Increase?
Without the increase, the quality and availability of recreation services may decline:
- Reduced Services: Some programs, like fitness classes, intramural sports, and boating activities, may need to be cut back or eliminated.
- Longer Wait Times: Limited funding could result in fewer staff, leading to delays in accessing facilities and programs.
- Outdated Equipment: Without sufficient funding, equipment and uniforms may become outdated, impacting safety and usability.
- Higher Personal Costs: Students may need to use off-campus facilities, which are often more expensive and less convenient.
- Fewer Opportunities: Limited resources could mean fewer on-campus events, tournaments, and student job opportunities.
Why This Matters
Investing in Campus Recreation is about more than fitness—it’s about creating a vibrant campus life where students can connect, thrive, and succeed. By supporting this fee increase, we can ensure that every student has access to high-quality recreational services that enhance their college experience.