Not Just A Hockey Town: 4 Sports Leagues in Grand Forks

Just like many fellow folks in the area, I live and breathe University of North Dakota hockey. A season ticket holder, and destination game traveler, I pour a lot of time and energy into that team. Regardless of the number of playoff overtime games I see, I’m there every step of the way. During the offseason, and even during the season, I find other activities and sports leagues in Grand Forks that I can put the same time and energy into. We’re not just a hockey town, after all. Competition lurks just around the corner! Here are some some of my favorite leagues to check out for yourself.  

LUG is described as the “largest social student sports league in North America,” with seasonal sports such as softball, golf, and hockey (yes, I know – off to a great start mentioning hockey in the “not just hockey” article, but hear me out). LUG’s reputation continues to grow and for those here for college, or perhaps coming to the area for college, LUG offers an alternative to the traditional intramural system (and even other established recreational leagues). They’ve created  a unique community amongst younger demographics. Teams receive custom LUG jerseys and gear when they register, and the league itself hosts a variety of socials and other offerings for its players to celebrate their work and connect. LUG’s website also makes note of young professionals’ teams, showing it’s not just a student activity, it’s a community offering.  

If given the chance, there are two yard games that I would try out for at the Olympic level: the first is ladder golf, and the second is cornhole. Now, there’s a reason I note “try out” and not “I would be on the Olympic team.” Reason number one is because the Olympics very wrongfully do not offer these two prestigious sports currently, and the second reason is because I’m not Olympic-level… yet! Choice Health & Fitness offers a summer cornhole league, hosted on Monday nights at Bringewatt Park (where volleyball leagues also take center court). Teams consist of two to four people, with games running through the end of July. Registration has already passed for this season, but be sure to keep Choice’s Cornhole League in mind as you’re tossing the bags around this summer!

A newer multi-sport complex, PlayIT! truly serves up something for everyone. Ping pong, billiards, foosball, wheelchair basketball and even air hockey (mentioning alternative forms of hockey in half of my list… who knew there were so many types?) – all of these and more are available! PlayIT! runs their leagues after at least eight teams have registered for a specific activity. Not necessarily interested in competing? That’s okay, too! If you look good in black and white, sign up to serve as a referee or stat keeper and help these leagues run smoothly.  

If you follow Downtown Axe on Instagram, you might recognize me from their social media posts. (No, they don’t pay me royalties. I really should be cashing in on that.) Their seasonal Axe Leagues offer an amazing space for experienced pros to compete, as well as space for newcomers to learn from the pros. I joined Downtown Axe’s very first league. As a newbie, I  could hardly get my axe to stick. Now, several seasons later, I’m winning games in league playoffs in style (I mean, look at that outfit). While a championship evades me still, each week I learn from others and improve my game! News about upcoming leagues will be shared on their website and social media accounts. Be sure to give them a follow! 

Whether you’re playing puck or throwing axe, or anything in between, you’ll find countless activities and sports leagues in Grand Forks! Grab some friends, pick something new, and go compete. You just might go pro!