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The Importance of School Clubs

Book Club members gather before a meeting. Pictured are (from left) Carly Gregg, Charlie McGill, Julian Pora-Parks, Liam O'Gorman and Nora Mayral-Boyle.

Clubs are the backbone of Post Oak: they connect the community through shared interests, allow students to take on leadership roles, and give them the opportunity to dive into an interest, whether as a club leader or a member. Post Oak has about one club for every eight students.

Anyone can start a club at any point throughout the year - all you need is a president, one member, and a teacher to sponsor it. Because it’s so easy to start a club, students do it all the time. Although some clubs might fail, the enthusiasm for starting clubs is a testament to community involvement. 

Clubs have always been a part of Post Oak. In fact, some clubs were started right around the inception of the high school. One example is Photo Club, which has an enthusiastic member base of almost one-quarter of the school. The enthusiasm for it, as for other clubs, is real; presidents and members participate not to bolster their resumes, but because they have a genuine interest in the subject. As Jaydn Cleary , who has been the President of Photo Club for the past three years, says, “Photo Club has provided me with many wonderful opportunities to explore myself creatively as well as help others to do the same. It fills me with joy to see our pictures displayed throughout the school.” 

I myself am the president of Book Club at Post Oak, a club I started this year in order to motivate myself to read more, bring my love of reading into the school to create a community of readers, and read books/short stories that do not appear on our class syllabi. I came up with the idea over the summer and pitched it during the club fair, which is an event at the beginning of the school year when students join clubs and founders pitch them. The club started out with 12 members; after some inevitable attrition, we stand at seven members. So far we’ve read John Cheever’s short story “Goodbye My Brother,” W. W. Jacob’s short story “The Monkey's Paw,” and about half of Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild . By the end of the semester, I hope that we’ve finished Into the Wild and maybe gotten started on another book.

I believe that literature is one of the most important elements of society today. It teaches critical thinking, exposes readers to different world views, showcases other cultures, and fosters imagination and creativity. But reading is also important for social reasons. Book clubs provide an opportunity for individuals of different backgrounds and passions to gather around a shared interest and enjoy each other’s company. While people usually read alone, they also connect with others through books. Reading has the built-in potential for community, since readers often have strong opinions on a work of literature and want to share them with others. The community that Book Club creates is important to me, and it’s one of the primary reasons I created the club. If other book clubs are interested, I would love to join them in reading a novel next semester. You can reach out to The Post Oak School to contact me. 

Clubs of all kinds provide an important sense of community at a school and give students an opportunity to delve into interests of all kinds. I’m glad that Post Oak makes it so easy to create and join clubs. They have added much to the culture of the school and to my experience as a student. 

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A Comprehensive List of High School Clubs Students Can Join or Consider Starting

The Importance of High School Clubs

Versatility of Club Participation

List of High School Clubs

Starting Your Own Club

How to Start a High School Club

Most high school students know that joining, leading, and starting clubs is a great way to make friends, do something you feel good about, explore a passion, and stretch yourself beyond your day-to-day classes.

Of course, you also probably know that club participation looks great on your college application, which means it’s worth considering the benefits different kinds of clubs offer in terms of personal growth, skill building, etc…

But time constraints, lots of classwork, or the simple challenge of having too many clubs to choose from may make it hard to get started…If you have questions like:

Is joining a club worth it?  

How do I decide what kind of club to join?

What’s more beneficial — joining a club or starting my own club?

then keep reading…

In this post we’ll help you feel more confident about choosing a club that matches your interests and college aspirations.

The Importance of High School Clubs for Students

You know high school isn't just about hitting the books, right? This is a time when you can expand your horizons and explore your passions and the world outside of school with peers who share your interests.

1. Exploring Interests and Building Character

One amazing way to do that is by diving into extracurricular activities — those fun and engaging things you do after school and to make the most of summertime as well. Let me tell you why they're not only a great chance for some group fun but also incredibly important for your personal growth and future college dreams.

First off, extracurricular activities help you grow as a person . By joining a club or starting one yourself, you're stepping out of your comfort zone, learning new skills, and meeting people who share your interests.

2. Developing Essential Life Skills

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , students who get involved tend to have better time management skills and higher self-esteem. When you're part of a club, you're basically leveling up your teamwork, leadership, and communication skills without even realizing it.

3. Making an Impression on College Admissions

Now, let's talk about the college dream and getting into top colleges . Selective colleges are highly competitive, but they also value well-rounded individuals who can contribute to their campus community.

Amy Thompson, a high school counselor in New York wants students to know that  “Admission officers can see through the applicant who joins a million different clubs in their junior or senior year” so it’s important to “use your [extracurricular] activities to show colleges who you are.”

Thompson’s best advice: “don’t just join something to pad your resume. Pick something you’re genuinely interested in… and show…some level of initiative or leadership.”

That’s right, alongside your grades and test scores, colleges want to know how your values, passions, and interpersonal skills will enhance campus life.

Extracurricular activities are one key ingredient of high school success and your chance to let prospective colleges all the genuine passions, commitments, and abilities that make you special — all the personality traits that are going to elevate your personal essays !

• Further reading: What Do Colleges Look For In Students & How To Stand Out

Interested in learning more? Attend one of our free events

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The Versatility of High School Club Participation

So, there’s not much debate when it comes to the benefits of club participation, club leadership, starting a club among other kinds of valuable extracurricular activities . And, if you’re motivated to learn and grow, and improve your chance for getting into a great college AND increasing your chances for succeeding in college , you’re probably already involved in a club or trying to figure out your next steps — for picking a club, joining a club, or getting more involved in club leadership.

Choosing Clubs Based on Personal Interests and Goals

But you still have to consider what kinds of clubs offer benefits that match your personal passions and your college aspirations…

Kevin's Story: Balancing STEM with Literature

Let’s imagine a student named Kevin, and let’s suppose Kevin is a sophomore interested in STEM subjects at school. Kevin really needs opportunities to escape from the rigor of his classes, so he’s looking for a club experience that’s fun and social and doesn’t involve science, but that will also elevate his college profile. Based on that, Kevin decides that joining a Literature Club, not a science club, is the way to go.

Dana's Journey: Paving the Way in Engineering

Let’s imagine another student, Dana, who is also on a STEM track. Suppose Dana has an itch for real-life tinkering and experimentation and believes that as a woman she needs to really “lean in” when it comes to forging a path in engineering, a field where women are less represented .

The only science club at the school that Dana finds interesting is an Environmental Club. But Dana wants something more hands-on and engineering focused, so after finding a supportive teacher to be the club advisor, she convinced some classmates to join together to launch the school’s first Robotics Club.

How to select a high school club right for you?

As you can see, there are lots of directions you can take when it comes to choosing a club and finding clubs with the benefits that are right for YOU…

Use the high school clubs list below for help, so you can quickly sort out what clubs are the best fit for you. The list includes popular clubs and some more unique clubs and highlights some of the unique benefits that set different kinds of clubs apart!

And, if the clubs that interest you aren’t available at your school… what then?... Don’t worry, after you check out the high school clubs list in this post, you’ll see some tips to help you decide if starting your own club is the right way to go, along with the steps you’ll need to follow to start a club.

Extracurriculars Around the World

Comprehensive List of High School Clubs and Their Benefits

Academic clubs.

If colleges are looking for “well rounded” applicants, then are academic clubs even a good idea?

Glad you asked… Colleges actually know darn well that some of their top academic achievers are not going to be so well rounded. In other words, a diverse student body at an academic institution is going to include some students with very intense academic passions and commitments and some more well rounded students.

So, being a fanatic for an academic subject doesn’t mean you won’t be a strong candidate for college! On the contrary — it’s just that colleges want to know what your real passions are, and they’re going to also recruit some more well-rounded applicants so campus life is more diverse and balanced.

So, if you’re aiming to showcase an exceptional giftedness for a specific subject or just have an unquenchable passion for the subject, then pursuing those interests in an academic club could be a good choice.

Key Benefits of Academic Clubs

• You demonstrate exceptional motivation for self-directed learning in a subject you’re passionate about
• Creative activities may help you discover new insights, perspectives, or passions related to the subject you’re obsessed with
• May involve opportunities to participate in stimulating academic competitions or project fairs — and even win awards
• You’re turbocharging your academic credentials before applying to college

Popular Academic Clubs

• Math Club — From study groups, to research projects, to exploring new math concepts and theories, math clubs are a great way to explore math with more freedom and creativity!
• Science Club — Science clubs offer you an opportunity to explore the science topics you’re most passionate about, conduct experiments, organize projects addressing real-life problems and solutions, or attend or promote a science fair.
• History Club — Dive deep into historical events and periods, organize museum visits, explore new books on topics of interest, pursue a creative project, such as a historical re-enactment of an important event.

Arts and Culture Clubs

Clubs on the arts and culture club list cover lots of ground: visual arts, music, theater, literature, and more. Arts and culture clubs are great for anyone who wants to take advantage of extracurricular activities that offer enrichment and a platform for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth.

These clubs often allow you to make friends while participating in activities that honor individual self-expression and diverse viewpoints, talents and interests.

If you’re looking for a respite from rigorous academic classes or you just want a space to embrace and explore your individuality alongside like-minded peers, arts and culture clubs offer lots of possibilities.

Key Benefits of Arts & Culture Clubs

• Cultivate self-awareness and cultural awareness
• Explore expressive and creative activities you don’t experience in your regular classes
• Discover and develop innate creative talents
• Build confidence, self-esteem, and self-discipline from completing artistic projects or putting on performances
• Be able to showcase holistic talents and interests when you apply to colleges

Popular Arts & Culture Clubs

• Drama Club — Develop acting skills, escape into fictional settings and events, have a ton of fun playing different roles, try out script writing and develop creative writing abilities, practice putting yourself out there and building confidence by performing on stage, or strut your teamwork skills helping out backstage
• Art Club — Explore various art forms, enjoy and learn from peers with diverse talents and creative interests, explore your inner creativity in the company of supportive peers, organize exhibitions or visit art museums or exhibits, volunteer as a mentor to facilitate art-related extracurricular activities for grade school kids.
• Literature Club — Host book discussions, explore one author or literary genre, write book reviews to submit to the school paper, organize vocabulary competitions, work with school staff to invite authors to speak at school assemblies, or put on your own book talks in the school library.

Sports and Physical Activity Clubs

Sports and Physical Activity Clubs are great if you want to get in shape, stay in shape, or enjoy an extracurricular activity that lets you get physical activity after a full day of classwork.

Like athletes, these clubs come in all shapes and sizes, so you can join or start a club focused on a niche activity that you’re interested in — with lots of options, such as basketball, soccer, and track, or trying out more niche activities like rock climbing, yoga, or ultimate frisbee…

These clubs also instill qualities of resilience, perseverance, and determination, and that fact won’t be lost on admissions officers when you apply to college down the road. Who knows, your passion and commitment can also pave the way to a rewarding sports scholarship !

Key Benefits of Sports & Physical Activity Clubs

• Get more balance in your school day with some refreshing and healthy physical activities
• Develop new friendships with peers who have different academic interests
• Build your teamwork skills
• Stay healthy and fit, and build self confidence
• Boost your college profile by demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and time management skills

Popular Sports & Physical Activity Clubs

• Soccer Club — Learn teamwork, participate in tournaments, hone your understanding of soccer techniques, rules, and strategy.
• Yoga Club — Focus on mental and physical well-being, seriously de-stress from school work, and explore the benefits of a healthy mind-body connection along with potential new friends.
• Running Club — Make new friends, build amazing stamina and perseverance, push your limits and develop resilience — enduring qualities you can also apply in academics and that will help you stand out when you apply for college down the road.

Social and Community Service Clubs

Social and community service clubs offer you opportunities to make a positive impact on both your immediate surroundings and the broader world.

Participating in these clubs will be a great way to extend your collaboration, communication, and leadership skills.

Social and community service clubs allow students to investigate and advocate for various social policy topics, and organize activities such as debates, community service projects, educational forums, or book discussions.

Wondering what kinds of issues and policies to put at the center of your club…? Usually, students focus on issues they feel passionate about or see as a concern in their community. Some great “causes” to consider include homelessness, climate change, public health issues, education, fighting poverty or hunger, and more.

By participating in these clubs, you’re going to cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility.

Social and community service clubs can help you develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by different communities. And, as you wrestle with the challenges of spearheading social change with the support of other club members, you’ll discover the power you can have in helping shape a better world.

Your teamwork and collaboration efforts — as you organize events, fundraisers, and initiatives — will also nurture leadership skills, tactical communication skills, and problem-solving abilities, setting you up for success in many different future endeavors.

Additionally, these clubs give you many opportunities to enjoy belonging and connection as you collaborate with peers with similar values and aspirations.

Key Benefits of Social & Community Service Clubs

• Practice coordination, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills
• Find opportunities to channel your social justice passion and empathy into action and heighten your awareness of the power you have to make the world better
• Your experience will help you showcase great qualities when you apply to college, such as empathy, initiative-taking, social responsibility, and an ability to connect academic learning with social action

Popular Social & Community Service Clubs

• Debate Club — Enhance your public speaking poise and confidence, learn new critical thinking skills you can apply to other subjects and later in college, and enjoy a form of competition that’s intellectually stimulating.
• Community Service Club — Organize charity events, volunteer at local nonprofits, find fun and creative ways to raise money for worthy causes as you make friends and build community with other students.
• Environmental Club — Promote sustainable practices, organize clean-up drives, learn practical advocacy skills — like how to advance a petition or policy, how to do community outreach to promote an event for community awareness  or to recruit new members to your club.

Some Unique Special Interest Clubs

• Benefits include polishing your resume, especially if you plan to apply to college as an engineering major.
• Benefits include cultivating a more well-rounded personality and enriching your perspectives on culture and society.
• Benefits include developing and demonstrating exceptional curiosity and mature communication, critical thinking, and problem solving skills.

Starting Your Own Club: Pros and Cons

Some students think it’s essential to start their own club because it’s necessary if you want to stand out when it’s time to apply to college. But maybe your decision-making should consider the bigger picture… It makes more sense to focus on your passions, genuine community interests and needs, and the interests of peers at your school.

So before diving into the deep end when it comes to the demanding work of starting a new club, ask yourself the following:

• Do I have the time and energy to take this on?
• Will this kind of club have meaningful benefits for participants? For others?
• Will it attract enough of my peers to be sustainable?
• Will I be able to earn the support of a teacher advisor and school administrators?

Now let’s get into the real PROS and CONS of starting a club in high school…

Starting a high school club can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges. Here are some important pros and cons to consider:

Pros of Starting a High School Club

1. Your interests are front and center: You can create a club that aligns with your interests, passions, and hobbies, allowing you to connect with like-minded peers.

2. Exceptional Leadership Training: Starting and leading a club helps develop valuable leadership skills that can be beneficial in future endeavors, including college and career opportunities.

3. Impact: Your club can make a positive impact on the school and local community through various activities, events, and initiatives.

4. Networking: You'll have the opportunity to connect with students from different grades and potentially collaborate with teachers and other staff members.

5. Resume Booster: Being involved in starting and running a club can enhance your resume and go a long way in helping you demonstrate initiative, organization, and commitment on your college apps.

Cons of Starting a High School Club

1. Time Commitment & Time Management: Managing a club can be majorly time-consuming, especially when it comes to planning meetings, events, and coordinating with members!

2. Startup Hurdles: Starting a club from scratch can be exciting, but the minutiae of paperwork, forms, charters, budgets, finding an advisor, and gaining administrative approval, can feel bureaucratic and tedious.

3. Finding Members: It might be challenging to attract and retain members, and maintaining their interest and engagement over time can be tricky.

4. Conflict Resolution: This might not be the first challenge that comes to mind, but depending on what type of club and the personal interests of those who participate, moderating conflicting interests and opinions to forge consensus among the founding club members can be difficult.

How to Start Your Own High School Club: Six Steps to Follow 

If you decide to move forward and start a club, here’s what you’ll need to do next:

• Identify a niche or interest
• Gather a small group of like-minded fellow students to be trailblazers with you
• Seek approval from school administration and find a supportive club advisor (usually a teacher or other staff member)
• Organize a couple of initial meetings to work on and build consensus around planning and goal setting with an eye to the activities, and structures that will help make the club fun, beneficial, supportive, and rewarding for all involved
• Come up with a club mission statement and meeting schedule
• Publicize your club, and include: the name, mission, and goals, how to join, and the meeting times and location

Once your new club is off and running, remember to create time for gathering some member feedback to guide future planning. 

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been thinking about joining a club or starting a new club, or wondering whether club activities are even worth it then we hope the list of high school clubs and our discussion of the unique benefits clubs offer will make it easier for you to take your next steps and get involved before high school passes you by…

As an extracurricular, your club activities don’t have to take up lots of time. And, for the time you do put in, you should get lasting friendships, memories, and benefits…

Finally, motivated students thinking about applying to selective schools should also remember that club participation is a great way to become more well rounded or showcase unique commitments, passions, and interests — all of which have a positive impact on your college admissions prospects and on college life as well!

Like most things, taking the next step and taking initiative get easier with practice. So now it’s your turn…

Here are some action steps you can take right now:

• Review the list of clubs above, make your own “short list” of prospective clubs to join or start, decide what your next step is and give yourself a deadline for action!
• Get connected with Crimson Education for more information on individualized college prep support.

Key Resources & Further Reading

• Join our free webinars to ace your university applications
• Free eBooks and guides to help with the college application process
• Which Summer Activities Do Colleges Like?
• 10 Passion Project Ideas for High School Students
• The Key to Choosing The Right Extracurricular Activity
• 18 Examples of Great Extracurricular Activities For Colleges
• Top 10 Benefits of Extracurricular Activities in High School

About the Author

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus is a former educator with a passion for languages, literature, and lifelong learning. After obtaining a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz and exploring university life in Paris, Keith earned his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and then worked for 16 years in K12 education before setting up shop as a freelance writer.

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The Best Club Ideas for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Many high school students find the activity list on college applications to be a daunting task. This section will ask you to list your extracurricular activities and the roles you’ve played in them. While the personal statement, supplements, and transcript often get the most focus, the activities list is also important and shouldn’t be overlooked. It shows admissions officers how you’ve spent your time outside of class over the past four years. Starting one or more high school clubs is a great way to impress admissions officers. This blog will share high school club ideas that can offer a rewarding experience and help you stand out on your college applications.

Creative Club Ideas For Your High School Curricular

Every student at some point worries that their extracurricular activities aren’t enough, that they’re somehow the wrong choices, or that they don’t fully reflect who they are as a candidate. If any of these concerns are on your mind, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

We believe in being proactive and tackling these issues early by selecting your clubs thoughtfully and committing to them.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best clubs to start in high school, from mathletes to the debate team, and address common questions like: How many clubs do I need to join to get into Harvard ? Or, Is HOSA better than Doctors Without Borders? What about contests and competitions? There’s a lot to unpack here, so let’s get started!

The Artistic Route: Club Ideas for the Artistically Inclined

If you’re passionate about the arts, joining or starting a high school art club is a great choice. These clubs offer a supportive space where you can participate in creative activities and work with other artists.

Being part of an art club lets you explore your creativity, express yourself, and showcase your talents. You’ll have plenty of chances to try different art forms and improve your skills. These are unique clubs to start in high school:

The Tech-Savvy Route: STEM-Based Club Ideas

High schools offer many STEM clubs for students interested in science, technology, engineering, or math. These clubs let students explore advanced concepts, do hands-on experiments, and immerse themselves in various STEM fields.

Joining a STEM club can be a great experience. You get to follow your passions, learn life skills, and prepare for future careers. These clubs also provide a supportive environment where you can learn from others and work together on exciting projects. These are the STEM-based clubs to start in high school that look good for college:

For the Socially Aware: Liberal Arts Club Ideas

Social sciences and liberal arts clubs let high school students explore topics like human behavior, culture, and society. These clubs offer a space for discussions, analysis, and creative expression in areas like history, psychology, sociology, philosophy, and literature.

They inspire curiosity and help students build important skills like critical thinking, communication, and empathy, which are important to understanding and engaging with the world. These are the clubs to start in high school that look good for college:

For Students with Hobbies :Hobby-Centric Club Ideas

Hobby clubs in high schools offer students a fantastic way to pursue their personal interests and unwind from academic pressures. These clubs are centered around activities that students genuinely enjoy, from knitting and gardening to video gaming and photography.

These clubs provide a more relaxed environment where students can explore their hobbies, learn new skills, and even teach others, all while having fun and taking a break from their regular school routine. These are unique clubs to start in high school that are aligned with your hobbies:

How many extracurriculars do you need to impress college admissions officers?

Everyone knows that one person who seems to do fifty extracurriculars in a single semester, launches a rocket to the moon, and still aces their math test. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by these stories, but here’s a pro tip: forget about them. You don’t need a hundred extracurriculars to get into an Ivy League school. Let’s say it again for emphasis: you do not need a hundred extracurriculars to get into an Ivy. Ten would be even too much!

What’s far more important than the number of activities you’re involved in is the focus of those activities. Maybe you’re a theatre enthusiast who spends countless hours rehearsing for productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Crucible. Or maybe you’re an athlete dedicated to competing on varsity teams and traveling for matches. These are serious time commitments, and colleges understand that. The truth is heavily focusing on one or two passions often pays off more in the long run. This focus can lead to awards and recognition in your chosen field.

So let’s put the myth of the “super-student” to rest. The number of extracurriculars you take or clubs you join doesn’t determine your college admissions outcome. What truly matters is the quality of your involvement. When it comes to deciding which activities to continue and which to let go, trust your instincts. If you dread practicing the violin but love every minute of ballet, your heart already knows where it wants to be.

Is community service a fool-proof extracurricular?

Community service can be a really awesome and meaningful way to spend your time. It’s not just about ticking a box or making your college application look good; it’s also about actually helping people and connecting with others who care about the same things you do. When you get involved in community service, you’re doing something positive for the world around you and learning more about what your community needs.

But keep in mind, not all community service is the same. Just like with clubs and your club ideas, what you get out of it depends on how well it matches your interests. If you’re into the environment, you might really enjoy joining a local clean-up or helping out with a conservation group. If you’re more into education, maybe tutoring or volunteering at a library would be more your thing.

And if you don’t see anything that excites you, don’t worry—get creative! You can reach out to local organizations or even start your own project. Whether it’s organizing a food drive, planning a charity event, or setting up a mentorship program, there are tons of ways to make your own community service project. The solution is to do something that really matters to you, so you can enjoy it and make a real impact at the same time.

Why start a new club in high school?

Starting a club in high school with your club ideas is a great way to fill a gap you’ve noticed. Maybe you’ve looked through all the existing clubs and realized there’s no a cappella group, but you’ve always dreamed of living out your broadway fantasy and being the next Barbara Streisand. Or maybe you have a passion for photography, but there’s no club for that at your school.

In situations like these, the best move is to create your own club. If you’re interested in something, chances are other students are too! Why not take the lead and start a club that you and your classmates will enjoy? Plus, colleges love seeing that you’re proactive and ready to take on leadership roles.

How to start a club in high school

So, you have the club ideas but you do not know how to start a club in high school. Starting a club in high school can be an exciting way to make a mark, but it’s important to know the steps involved. Each school has its own set of rules for starting a club, so your first move should be to check your high school handbook or ask an administrator about the process. Many schools will require a faculty advisor to oversee the club, so think about which teacher might be the best fit.

For example, if you want to start an art club, your art teacher might be the perfect person to guide you. Or, if you’re interested in starting a math club, consider reaching out to someone in the math department.

You don’t have to limit yourself to teachers you already know—this could be a great chance to connect with a new faculty member and build a strong relationship. Having a teacher on board not only gives your club legitimacy but also shows that you’re serious about your initiative.

Plus, taking the lead on starting a club demonstrates your willingness to contribute positively to your school community, something that both your peers and college admissions officers will notice. Starting a club is about creating a safe space for your interests and ultimately showing that you’re committed to making a difference in your school.

Consider this before you start a club

Before you kick start your club ideas, it’s crucial to understand that starting any new initiative requires both time and dedication. Creating a club goes beyond just having a great idea—you’ll need to put in the effort to get it off the ground. This might mean making posters, flyers, or using social media to spread the word about your new club.

You’ll also need to think carefully about how to structure the club. For example, if you’re starting a volunteer club, you’ll need to reach out to local organizations to establish partnerships and plan activities. Consider all the organizational tasks that will be involved, from setting meeting schedules to planning events.

It’s also a good idea to invite friends to help you out—clubs often thrive when they’re a team effort. This makes the work more manageable and gives you a chance to build your teamwork and collaboration skills, which are highly valuable in any group setting.

In addition to the basics, some clubs—especially those that are part of national organizations like HOSA—require extra steps to get started. To charter a chapter at your school, you’ll need to contact your state advisor or the organization’s headquarters to request a charter packet and number. You’ll also need to affiliate your school with the national organization, which might involve paying fees and completing paperwork.

Make sure to handle these logistics well in advance, and if your club requires membership fees, collect those early to avoid any last-minute issues. Starting a club can be a lot of work, but with careful planning and the help of your peers, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many clubs should I join in college?

In college, it’s best to join 2-3 clubs that genuinely interest you. This allows you to get involved without overloading your schedule, giving you the chance to make meaningful contributions and build connections. Quality involvement matters more than the quantity of clubs.

2. How do I choose a club to join? 

Choose a club that aligns with your interests, passions, or career goals. Consider what activities you enjoy, the skills you want to develop, and how the club can help you connect with like-minded people. Attend a few meetings or events to see if it’s a good fit before committing.

3. What clubs look best on college applications?

Clubs that align with your interests and show leadership, commitment, and impact look best on college applications. Academic clubs, honor societies, and those related to your intended major are particularly strong. However, colleges also value unique clubs that highlight your passions, creativity, and dedication, especially if you’ve taken on leadership roles or started the club yourself. Ultimately, the quality of involvement matters more than the specific type of club.

4. Do high school clubs make a huge impact on my college applications?

High school clubs can impact your college applications, but they’re not the deciding factor. Colleges care more about how you engage with your activities—showing leadership, commitment, and passion—rather than just the number of clubs you’re in. While clubs help, strong academics, essays , and other factors weigh more heavily.

5. Are there clubs that do not have impact on my college application? 

Yes, some clubs may have less impact on your college application, especially if they don’t align with your interests or future goals, or if you have minimal involvement. However, it’s more about how you engage with the club and what you learn or contribute that matters most.

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By submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., how important are high school clubs.

It’s no secret that high school is stressful.

If you’re gearing up for college, you may feel as though the demands on your time are endless. For starters, you’re probably focused on completing challenging courses and test prep . It can seem like you never have any time outside of school—but it is important to de-stress and focus on something besides academics. Joining high school clubs is a great way to achieve that goal! Even better, having a well-rounded portfolio can improve your competitiveness as a future college applicant .

Your participation in clubs can hone your communication skills, foster creative thinking, and teach you how to work effectively with other people. Your extracurricular involvement is one of the few ways that colleges can gain insights into your personality. Because extracurriculars can take a lot of time—and because your time in high school is precious—you’ll want to be strategic about which clubs to join.

How important are high school clubs? They can prove very consequential. If you take on increasing responsibility and achieve success, your extracurricular involvement will not only help you get into college—it could even help you pay for college! Ultimately, high school clubs are as important as you make them. Here are eleven tips for choosing the right clubs and using your time outside of school wisely.

Tip #1: Know your options

There is a huge range of clubs and extracurriculars offered at most high schools. You have the option of joining sports teams, community service clubs, public speaking organizations, math or science leagues, social or political organizations, or interest-focused groups like anime or waffle clubs (yes, there are actual waffle clubs!). Usually, at the beginning of the school year, you will get some introduction to all of the available clubs (via a school assembly, email, or other communication). Make a list of the ones that intrigue you and attend their first meetings. Based on your initial impressions, you can narrow down your list to a few clubs you want to join for the school year.

Tip #2: Choose quality over quantity

While it’s a good idea to participate in different types of extracurricular activities, keep in mind that quality is better than quantity. You should not join every single club your school offers. This will lead you to feel overwhelmed and may prevent you from enjoying your extracurricular experiences. Instead, attend your school’s club fair at the beginning of the year, choose two to three clubs that you truly enjoy, and focus on those. You don’t want to be a dilettante who does a little bit of a lot of things. Instead, think about what really piques your interest, and pursue just a few things.

Tip #3:  Understand that colleges know you can’t be everywhere all the time

It may not always feel that way, but colleges do understand that some extracurricular activities are much more time-intensive than others. Varsity sports, for instance, may preclude you from participating in any other activities. But if you become increasingly accomplished in your activity (more on this in Tip #4), then you don’t necessarily need to be a member of multiple clubs. Likewise, if you have a part-time job, colleges will “count” that out-of-school activity in their assessment of your candidacy. (And if you need to work significant hours to support yourself and your family, colleges will keep that in mind when considering your extracurricular activities overall.) Colleges will consider both the time commitment you invest in an activity as well as what you accomplish.

Tip #4: Deepen your engagement over time

As you gain more experience in your extracurricular activities, you can take on increasing amounts of responsibility and assume leadership positions . Becoming a club president, team captain, or other leader provides a great way to stand out on college applications—and, more importantly, taking on additional responsibility helps you cultivate your “soft” skills.

Tip #5: Try to gain professional experience

Finding an internship or job that aids in professional development during high school is tough. (There are still opportunities, however. For instance, if you’re thinking of being a pre-med, try shadowing a doctor .) If you can only get limited hands-on work experience—or if you can’t get any at all—clubs can provide valuable professional development opportunities. For example, if you are interested in international relations, joining Model United Nations can provide you with great (simulated) experience. Similarly, if you are interested in science and engineering, try joining a robotics club or Science Olympiad to strengthen key career skills. If you are interested in the arts, try drama club or join the dance team. Spending a few hours per week (or more!) cultivating your interests will help you learn if you would like to pursue those subjects in college and your future career. There is also overlap between high school and college clubs, so chances are, you’ll be able to continue pursuing many of the same activities once you transition to college. Colleges may even recruit you for your extracurricular talents!

Tip #6: Don’t try to game the college admissions process

A stint in Model Congress—especially if you gained recognition for your performance—will likely be looked upon more favorably than, say, time spent in a pinball club. That said, you shouldn’t try to game the college admissions process by joining only clubs you think colleges want you to participate in. That would be doing things backwards—colleges use extracurriculars as a way to understand what you like (not to understand what you think they like), so you should pursue your own interests and passions. Just understand that one hour a week spent in a pizza club won’t be viewed the same as ten hours a week devoted to the debate team. Passion always shows, however—so be guided by your strengths and ideals. If you’re dedicated and talented enough, colleges may even give you a scholarship to attend their schools to continue pursuing your passion!

Tip #7: Consider giving back to your community

Community service clubs such as buildOn or Key Club are very popular because they offer you a chance to give back. Not only do some honors societies require community service, but many students also find it incredibly valuable and fulfilling. If you decide you want to volunteer for a community service club or organization, think about the issues that matter most to you, and get involved. Take on leadership roles if you can, too. Also remember that many community service organizations offer college scholarships.

Tip #8: Strengthen your time-management skills

Focusing on activities outside of school will allow you to hone your time-management skills. You will have to plan in advance when to complete homework, fulfill your extracurricular responsibilities, study for tests, have a social life, and, occasionally, sleep. Participating in extracurriculars during high school will help you cultivate the time-management skills that you’ll need to succeed in college.

Tip #9: If you can’t find clubs you want to join, start your own

If you don’t see any clubs that spark your interest, don’t worry—you can start your own! Not only will this allow you to create something tailored to your interests, but it will also enable you to cultivate a community of students who share your interests. Starting a club, while time-consuming, will demonstrate your leadership skills and willingness to take initiative.

Tip #10: Build relationships with teachers and advisors

Keep in mind that school clubs typically need a faculty advisor. You may ultimately develop a bond with the teacher who serves as your club’s advisor—and he or she may end up writing you a letter of recommendation in the future.

Tip #11: As with most things, you get out what you put in

No matter which clubs you join—or launch—you will have the opportunity to develop important skills and stand out on your college applications. The more you make of your opportunities to pursue new experiences and develop new skills, the more likely your extracurricular involvement is to have an impact on your college prospects. In the process, you’re very likely to add value to your high school experience and create amazing memories!

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100 Best Clubs to Start in High School

July 24, 2023

One of the dreaded parts of many high school students’ college applications is the activity list . This is where you list your extracurriculars and what roles you played in them. While the personal statement, supplements, and transcript often garner the most attention, the activities list should not be overlooked. More important than the list itself, however, is what the list reveals to admissions officers about how you’ve chosen to spend your after-school hours over the past four years. One way to impress admissions officers is to start one or more high school clubs. This blog will cover 100 high school club ideas that can a) be a rewarding experience and b) help you stand out on your applications down the road.

Inevitably, every student worries that their extracurriculars aren’t enough (they are!), that they are somehow wrong (they’re not!), or that they don’t showcase the right parts of you as a candidate—that’s where we come in. If any of these fears are popping up in your head, don’t worry: you aren’t alone. But we here at College Transitions like to be proactive and get ahead of problems before they arise, which means selecting your clubs early and sticking with them.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the best clubs to start in high school, from mathletes to debate team , and answer some common questions we hear, like: How many clubs do I need to join to get into Harvard ? Or, Is HOSA better than Doctors Without Borders? What about contests and competitions ? As you can see, there’s a lot to cover. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

I Need How Many Extracurriculars?

Look, we get it: we all know so-and-so who did fifty extracurriculars in one semester and somehow managed to fly to the moon and make it back to school on time to ace her math test?! Our best rule of thumb is to put these stories out of your mind. You do not need one-hundred extracurriculars to get into an Ivy. We’ll say it one more time for emphasis: you do not need one-hundred extracurriculars to get into an Ivy. You don’t even need ten!

Far more important than the number of extracurriculars you take or the number of high school clubs you’re involved in is the subject of these after-school activities. Maybe you’re a theatre kid who spends all his time practicing for productions of The Music Man and Our Town . Or perhaps you’re an athlete who competes on Varsity teams and travels across the county. These activities are substantial time commitments. We know that, and colleges do, too! What’s more: delving deep into one or two passions reaps greater rewards in the end, as this often means you’re nominated for various awards and have the chance to thrive in your chosen field.

So, let us dispel the myth of the “everyman” student right now and say that the number of extracurriculars you take and the number of clubs you start in high school does not impact the schools you get into. What matters more than the quantity of your extracurriculars is their quality. As for determining which extracurricular activities to continue pursuing and which to leave at the wayside, follow your gut. Do you dread practicing violin but love attending ballet? See, your heart already knows where it longs to be!

What About Summer Programs?

We’re glad you asked! At College Transitions, we believe in maximizing your chances for success. For many students, that means not only starting a club in high school but also taking advantage of those hot summer months to brush up on math skills or attend STEM seminars . There are even game design programs for high school students!

If this isn’t something you’ve done or intend to do, don’t worry. A family trip to Italy or a few months working as a babysitter for that family next door can provide just as much enrichment as a few weeks of poring over chess problems—and may even give you a topic to write about for your personal statement.

What’s This I Keep Hearing About Community Service?

For some students, community service provides a wonderful extracurricular activity. Community service is a way to give back to the community around you and meet like-minded do-gooders in the process. While we’re inclined to think most community service projects are worthwhile, it’s also true that not all community service projects are created equal. As with our tips on joining clubs, we recommend participating in community service projects related to your interests. If you can’t find any, there are plenty of ways to get creative and reach out to organizations in need. We’ve compiled a list of 100 worthwhile community projects for you here .

Why Should I Start a Club in High School?

The best reason to start a club in high school is to fill a lack. Maybe you’re browsing the opportunities at your school and notice that there’s no a cappella club, yet you’ve always wanted to fulfill your Glee fantasy and become the next Rachel Berry . Or perhaps you love taking photographs, but there’s no photography club at your school. In this case, the best thing you can do is start your own club. If you have an interest, odds are, other students do, too! Why not take the initiative and develop a club that will benefit you and your peers? And yes, it’s true: college admissions officers like to see that you’re a go-getter who isn’t afraid to take the lead.

How Do I Start a Club in High School?

Every high school has its own rules about starting a club. We recommend consulting your high school handbook to see what is needed to do so at your school. However, many schools require some faculty involvement. When starting a club, consider which faculty member to approach to ask whether they’ll oversee your club. If you want to start an art club, maybe you approach your art teacher. Or, if you’re starting a math club, why not look in the math department? You can approach a teacher you’ve had or one you haven’t. Either way, this is an excellent opportunity to deepen your bonds with your instructors and demonstrate your commitment to acting as a force for good within your school community.

What Do I Have to Know Before Starting a Club?

Before starting a club, it’s important to remember that beginning anything requires time and dedication. When creating a club, you might have to make posters, flyers, or other forms of advertisement to get the word out about this awesome new opportunity. Additionally, you’ll have to brainstorm and research how to best structure your club. For instance, if your club is a volunteer club, you might need to reach out to organizations in advance to ask whether you can partner with them. When starting your own club, consider the organizational efforts that will be needed. You might also consider inviting your friends to help out. Clubs are always better when they’re a joint effort! This is a chance to strengthen your teamwork and collaborative abilities for the common good.

Additionally, some national clubs like HOSA require additional steps to charter a chapter at your school. To charter a chapter for such a club, contact your state advisor or the club’s headquarters to request a packet and charter number. You’ll want to contact your state advisor regarding affiliating your school with the national organization. Some of these organizations require schools to pay affiliation fees and file paperwork to participate in the annual conferences or forums. Make sure you collect membership fees well ahead of schedule.

High School Club Ideas – Follow Through

Once you’ve taken all the steps to create your club, it’s time to follow through. The best clubs are ones that have been around for a long time, so don’t get discouraged if few people show up to the first few meetings. The important thing is that you continue to pursue your passion. We recommend starting early in your high school career so that you have ample time to build up a network of members, participate in competitions, and hold fundraisers.

Clubs to Start in High School

1) Art Review Magazine

2) Photography Club

3) Art History Club

4) Yearbook Club

5) Fashion/Retail Merchandising Up Cycle

6)  National Art Honor Society

Drama Clubs

7) Dance Club

8) Thespians Society

9) Improv Club

10) Playwriting Club

Best High School Clubs to Start (Continued)

11) Theatre Tech Crew

12) Musical Theatre Club

13) Shakespeare Club

14) Puppetry Club

15) Film Appreciation Club

16) Classic Movie Club

17) Foreign Film Club

18) Documentary Club

19) Animation Club

20) Film Production Club

21) Movie Trivia Club

Music Clubs

22) A Cappella Club

23) Chamber Choir Club

24) Band Club

25) Music Production Club

26) Songwriting Club

27) Music Theory Club

28) DJ Club

29) Battle of the Bands Club

Science Clubs to Start in High School

30) National Science Bowl

31)  HOSA – Future Health Care Professionals

32)  Conrad Challenge

33)  Source America Design Challenge

34)  National Ocean Sciences Bowl

35)  Envirothon

36) Chemistry Club

37) Computer Science/Hacking Club

28)  Technovation

Math/Business Clubs

29) Charitable Investment Club

30)  National Economics Challenge

31) Stock Market Club

32)  The High School Fed Challenge

33)  Blue Ocean Competition

34)  Diamond Challenge

35)  DECA – Prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs

36) Math Club or Mathletes

Literature Club Ideas

37) Book Club

38) Literary Magazine

39) Creative Writing Club

40) Poetry Club

41) Graphic Novel Club

42) Poetry Slam Team

History Club Ideas

43) Historical Debates Club

44) Museum Excursion Club

45) History Trivia Club

46) Cultural Exchange Club

47) Historical Reenactment Club

48) History Podcast Club

Culture Clubs

49) Foreign Language Club

50) Filipino Culture Club

51) African Experience Club

52) Asian Culture Club

53) Latin American Culture Club

54) Middle Eastern Culture Club

55) Indigenous Peoples Club

56) International Film Club

57) World Cuisine Club

58) Global Awareness Club

59) Travel Enthusiasts Club

60) Italian Culture Club

61) Spanish Club

Hobby Clubs

62) Anime Club

63) Chess Club

64) Cooking Club

65) ESports Club

66) DIY Club

67) Video Games Club

68) Skiing/Snowboarding Club

69) Harvesters Club

70) Skateboarding Club

71) Religion Club

72) Hiking Club

73) Cardio Training Club

74) Adventure Club

Charity/Community Service Club Ideas

75) Breast Cancer Awareness Club

76)  Key Club International

77)  Operation Smile Club

78) Children’s Hospital Volunteer Club

79) Soup Kitchen Volunteer Club

80) Save the Planet Volunteer Club

81) Fight Global Warming Club

82) Fight Against Animal Maltreatment (FAAM)

83)  Best Buddies Club – Dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

84)  Relay for Life – Peer-to-peer fundraising events to find the cure for cancer

85)  Science Olympiad

Political Clubs to Start in High School

86) Democrats/Republicans/Independents Club

87) Political Magazine Club

88) Students for Liberty Club

89) High School Political Review

90) Young Americans for Liberty

91) Civic Engagement Club

92) Youth Political Action Committee

93) LGBTQ+ Rights Club

94) Social Justice Club

95) Young Voters Club

96) International Relations Club

97) Future Leaders of America

98) Debate Club

99)   Model UN

100) Pre Law Club

Best High School Clubs to Start – Concluding Thoughts 

Starting a club at your high school can be a great way to explore your passions, build essential communication skills, and connect with like-minded peers. If you’re on the fence about starting your own club, we recommend reaching out to other students at your school who have done so. While the prospect of taking the initiative and approaching faculty members to act as advisors may initially seem daunting, the process may prove quite rewarding once your club is up and running. Plus, when it comes time to put together that activity list for college, you’ll have plenty to say, from the story of your club’s founding to the challenges you faced getting it off the ground. More than that, though, starting your own club fosters teamwork, leadership, and commitment—qualities that will be keystones not only for your application but also for the rest of your life.

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Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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How to Start a Club in High School: 8-Step Guide

Extracurriculars

Do you want to start a club at your high school? If your school doesn’t offer a particular club or group that you’re interested in, starting your own is a great way to meet new people and spend time doing something you enjoy. You'll also get leadership experience that can help strengthen your resume and college applications.

Read on to get step-by-step instructions on how to start a high school club.

Overview of High School Clubs

Before you start your own club, you want to make sure that you understand how high school clubs are run and why they're important.

Clubs are a great way for students to participate in activities they enjoy, learn new skills, and meet new people.  High school clubs can cover a wide variety of topics, from math to skiing to protecting the environment and more.

Club meetings are usually held after school. Some clubs meet regularly and require a large time commitment while others meet once a month or less. Each club usually has a teacher or staff member who acts as supervisor. Students can also hold leadership positions in the club, such as president, vice-president, and secretary.

Many students enjoy being in clubs because they give them an opportunity to spend time with their friends and do activities they find fun and interesting.  Colleges and employers also like to see students who have participated in extracurriculars such as clubs because it helps them understand a student’s interests better and shows that the student likes being involved and working with other people.

Many high schools offer a wide variety of clubs for students; however, it would be impossible for a high school to offer every single type of club.

Why Would You Start a New Club?

There are multiple reasons why you’d want to start a new club at your school. Some of the most common are listed below:

You Want to Pursue a Hobby You Enjoy

One of the best and most common reasons for starting or joining a club is because it allows you to pursue an activity you enjoy, whether that’s Ultimate Frisbee, baking, or something else. Clubs allow you to practice this hobby, learn more, and get better at it. If your school doesn’t offer a club for the activity or interest you want, then starting your own club will allow you to continue to enjoy this hobby.

You Want to Raise Awareness About a Cause You Care About

If there is a particular issue that you feel strongly about, such as promoting recycling or providing school supplies to students in Africa, you can have an impact by creating a club that focuses on that issue. By starting a club, you can increase awareness of a particular problem, collect money or supplies to donate, and possibly spend time volunteering to help improve the issue.

You Want to Meet People With Similar Interests

Joining a club can be a great way to meet other students with similar hobbies and interests. You get to enjoy your interest with other people and can learn more about it by working with them.

You Want to Gain Leadership Experience

An excellent way to get leadership experience is by starting a new club. You will learn how to create a new organization, recruit members, and get it running smoothly. Colleges love seeing examples of leadership , and being the founder of a club is a great way to show that you know how to take charge and handle responsibility.

How to Start a Club in High School

Now that you know all about high school clubs and why you'd want to start your own, let's get started! Follow the steps below to start a club that is interesting, well-run, and will last a long time.

Step 1: Brainstorm Ideas

Your first step is deciding what you want your club to focus on. You may already know, but if you don’t, think about your interests and activities you enjoy doing. Chances are you can develop a club around each of them! For example, if you enjoy skiing and wish you had more opportunities to ski, you could start a ski club at your school.

If you need more ideas for potential clubs, we have a complete list of extracurricular activities, with dozens of high school club ideas.

Once you have your idea, check to make sure your school doesn’t already have a similar club. You can do this by looking at your school’s student handbook or asking your academic adviser or someone at the school office.

Step 2: Define the Club's Purpose and Goals

Once you know what you want your club to be about, it’s time to get more specific.  Figure out what the purpose of the club is, what activities you want members to take part in, and what goals you have for the club.

For example, if you're starting that ski club, will the purpose of the club be organizing ski trips? Teaching members the basics of skiing? Discussing skiing gear? A combination of all three? Will meetings just be for organizing trip logistics, or will you also include lectures from ski experts or show videos of ski trips? What do you need to accomplish for the club to be considered successful? Three ski trips a year? Ten members taught the basics of skiing?

By figuring this out now, you will be able to provide a clearer and more complete vision of your club when you present the idea to the school and potential members.

Other questions to think about:

• Why do you want to start this club?
• What is the purpose of the club?
• What will club members do during meetings?
• How often will the club meet?
• Where will the club meet?
• What are the goals of this club?
• Do potential members need to try out for the club, or will anyone be allowed to join?

Step 3: Register Your Club With the School

Most high schools require clubs to go through a process to become school-approved. This may be as simple as filling out a form, or it may require discussing the club with teachers or school staff.

Without school approval, you likely won’t be able to have club meetings or post information at school, which can make it difficult to recruit members, so learn how to properly register your club and make it official.  If you’re not sure how to do this, ask your academic adviser, a teacher, or someone at the school office. Your student handbook may also have information on registering clubs.

Before you register your club, make sure you have completed the previous steps so that you can answer questions about the club, why you want to create it, and what club members will be doing. After getting your club approved by the school, a teacher or staff member may be assigned as the club supervisor. If not, ask a teacher you know well or who you think will have an interest in the club to act as supervisor.

Your school may also require you to write bylaws for the club, which will explain what the purpose of the club is, how people can join the club, if and how club elections will be held, and more. If your school does require you to write bylaws, they will often give you a template to fill in to make the process easier.

Step 4: Spread the Word

Once you know what you want your club to focus on and have gotten it approved by the school, it’s time to recruit some members.  If you haven’t already, figure out a time and place to hold your first meeting. You may need to get permission from your school to host the meeting in an empty classroom or another place.

Mention your club to your friends and people you think will be interested. If your school allows it, create and post flyers a week or two before the first meeting that briefly state the club’s name, purpose, and time and date of the first meeting. Try to make these flyers eye-catching and interesting to look at. For a ski club, including a color photo of a person skiing down a mountain and a heading like "Love to ski? Want to learn how? Join Jefferson High School's new ski club!" can catch students' interest and convince more people to attend the first meeting.

Fill empty seats by spreading the word and promoting your new club.

Step 5: Hold Your First Club Meeting

Don’t try to do too much at your first meeting; your goal should just be to introduce the club and answer any questions people may have. Introduce yourself, state what the club’s purpose and goals are, what members will do, and any potential ideas you have for future activities and events. Also, providing snacks is a great way to get people to love you and your new club.

To continue with the ski club example, for its first meeting you would explain the purpose of the ski club, whether that's organizing ski trips, teaching people how to ski, or another focus. Review (before the meeting!) the answers you gave to the questions in step 2  and discuss those if you're not sure what to talk about. You can then give a brief overview of what activities you'd like members to be able to participate in, such as ski lessons, weekend trips, etc., and then end by showing pictures of ski spots the club may visit to get people excited about future meetings.

After you've spoken, people who are attending the meeting a chance to introduce themselves and give their opinion on what they think the club should focus on.  Have a list where potential members can write their e-mail addresses to stay informed on future club news.

At the end of the meeting, let members know where and when the next meeting will be held.

Step 6: Assign Duties and Plan Events

At one of the first few meetings, you should assign leadership roles to help keep the club running smoothly. 

Common officer roles include:

• President:  Leads and supervises the club with help from other officers.
• Vice President: Fills in when the president is not available.
• Secretary: Takes notes during meetings, maintains club records, keeps members updated on club news and events.
• Treasurer:  Manages the club’s budget and expenses

Hold elections or nominate people to fill these positions.  Once you have your club organized and a leadership structure established, start planning activities for club members.  These activities can take place during club meetings or at special events outside of meetings. Potential ideas to consider include bringing in guest speakers, planning club outings, organizing fundraisers, and hosting discussions or lectures.

You probably want the first activity to be somewhat small to prevent you or other club members from getting overwhelmed with planning and to increase the probability of it being successful. For a ski club, the first activity could be a day-trip to a nearby ski slope, and, eventually, you could work up to a weekend trip to a resort a few hours away. In between ski trips, you could plan to have guest speakers come and discuss skiing, test out ski gear, and hold fundraisers to help cover expenses.

Step 7: Establish a Budget

Most clubs require some money to stay running, even if it is only a small amount to cover printing costs and snacks. Some clubs may need a much larger budget if they use a lot of materials or go on trips.

Your treasurer should develop a budget that gives a rough estimate of the expenses your club will expect to have. Things you may want to have in the budget include printing fees, food and drinks, travel expenses, gifts for guest speakers, and any materials you may need.  

Schools often provide stipends to official clubs, and this may be enough to cover your expenses. If not, consider fundraisers or club dues to raise enough money to keep the club active. For a club that has a lot of expenses, such as a ski club that offers ski trips, you will probably use a combination of school stipends, fundraisers, and member dues to help cover costs.

Want to go on a ski trip? Better start saving your pennies.

Step 8: Keep Your Club Going!

Now that you have your club up and running, it’s important to make sure it lasts . Keeping your club around for the long term will ensure that more students get to enjoy it, and it will also look more impressive to colleges because it shows that you can commit to something and have the skills to keep a club running long-term.

In order to keep your club going, make sure you continue to follow the above steps and recruit new members, assign leadership roles, stick to a budget, and plan activities and events to keep your club exciting. It can also help to have a special event at the end of each year, whether that's a party, weekend trip, or important guest speaker. Doing this will give members something to look forward to and help keep people interested in the club.

Final Tips to Keep in Mind

• Starting a club is a lot of work, so make sure you have enough time to devote to it before you begin the process.
• Don’t try to do everything all at once. It’s okay to start small and have your first few meetings focus mostly on getting to know each other and brainstorming ideas. Trying to plan too many things right away can be exhausting and overwhelming.
• Encourage group members to voice their opinions, and make sure you listen to their ideas. Taking multiple viewpoints into consideration will help your members enjoy the club more and can give you great ideas for future activities.
• If there are similar clubs or organizations at your school or in your community, you may want to consider working with them. This can help spread the word about your club, help members meet new people, and give you more options for interesting activities.

What's Next?

Want to find out more about extracurriculars and why they're so important? Check out our guide to extracurriculars and learn how they can help you get into your dream college!

Want more ideas to help you start your club? We have a list of hundreds of extracurriculars, and you're sure to find something there that interests you!

Want to use your club to help others? Check out our guide to learn more about community service and ways to give back.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Starting a Club in High School

Introduction

Are you a high school student brimming with passion, eager to make a difference, and yearning for an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals? Look no further! Starting a club in high school is the perfect avenue to unleash your creativity, build leadership skills, and forge lasting friendships. Whether you're passionate about community service, STEM, the arts, or any other interest, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to establish a thriving club that leaves a lasting impact. So, let's embark on this exciting journey together and unlock the secrets to successfully launching a high school club.

Steps to Create a Club

Identify Your Passion: The first step in starting a club is to identify your passion. What sparks your interest? Is it environmental conservation, debate, or maybe even a foreign language? Choose a topic or cause that genuinely excites you, as this will be the driving force behind your club's success.

Research Existing Clubs: Before diving headfirst into establishing your own club, it's essential to research existing clubs in your school. Are there similar clubs already in place? If so, analyze their objectives, activities, and membership. This research will help you understand the landscape and identify any gaps that your club can fill.

Recruit Members: A club is only as strong as its members, so recruiting like-minded individuals is crucial. Spread the word about your club by utilizing bulletin boards, social media platforms, and school announcements. Craft a compelling message that entices potential members to join your cause, emphasizing the unique opportunities and benefits your club offers.

Develop a Mission Statement: A clear and concise mission statement will guide your club's activities and provide a sense of purpose. Craft a statement that reflects your club's goals, values, and the positive impact you aim to make within your school community. Remember, a compelling mission statement can attract more members and garner support from faculty and administration.

Plan Engaging Activities: Create a diverse range of activities that align with your club's mission. Organize guest speakers, workshops, fundraisers, and community service initiatives that provide hands-on experiences for your members. These activities will foster engagement, encourage teamwork, and allow your club to leave a lasting impression on your school community.

Seek Faculty Support: Building a solid relationship with faculty members is vital for your club's success. Approach supportive teachers who share a passion for your club's mission and request their guidance and assistance. Faculty support can provide valuable resources, mentorship, and access to school facilities.

Establish Club Leadership: Every successful club needs effective leadership. Identify dedicated individuals within your club who demonstrate strong organizational skills, commitment, and the ability to inspire others. Distribute roles such as president, vice-president, treasurer, and secretary to ensure smooth club operations and effective communication.

Secure Funding: To bring your club's ideas to life, securing funding is essential. Explore various fundraising options, such as organizing bake sales, seeking sponsorships, or applying for grants. Additionally, establish a budget to track club expenses and ensure financial sustainability.

Publicize Your Club: Spread the word about your club's activities and accomplishments through various channels. Utilize social media platforms, school newsletters, and posters to generate interest, attract new members, and showcase the positive impact your club is making.

Evaluate and Adapt: Regularly assess your club's progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure continued growth and success. Seek feedback from members, analyze the effectiveness of activities, and adapt accordingly. This continuous evaluation will help you refine your club's strategies and maximize its impact.

Starting a club in high school is a rewarding experience that empowers you to pursue your passions, foster new friendships, and make a difference in your school community. By following the comprehensive steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to embark on this exciting journey. So, gather your enthusiasm, rally like-minded individuals, and start building the club of your dreams. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs about Starting a Club in High School

Q: How do I find faculty support for starting a club in high school? A: Finding faculty support is crucial for the success of your club. Here's how you can approach it:

• Identify teachers who have a genuine interest in your club's mission or topic.
• Schedule a meeting with them to discuss your club idea and the impact it can make on the school community.
• Clearly communicate your plans, activities, and the benefits the club will bring to students.
• Emphasize how their support and guidance can contribute to the club's success.
• Be open to their suggestions and insights, as they can provide valuable guidance based on their experience.
• Ask if they would be willing to serve as an advisor or provide occasional assistance to ensure a strong foundation for your club. Remember, building a positive relationship with faculty members is key, so be respectful, enthusiastic, and prepared to showcase your commitment to the club.

Q: How can I secure funding for my high school club? A: Securing funding is essential for implementing your club's ideas and activities. Consider the following strategies:

• Organize fundraising events within your school, such as bake sales, car washes, or talent shows. Promote these events to students, teachers, and the wider community.
• Seek sponsorship from local businesses, community organizations, or individuals who may be interested in supporting your club's cause or mission.
• Research grant opportunities available for high school clubs. Many foundations or organizations provide grants specifically for youth initiatives.
• Approach your school's administration or student council for potential funding or resources. They may have allocated funds or suggestions for obtaining financial support.
• Develop a detailed budget that outlines the estimated expenses for your club's activities and initiatives. This will help you plan and manage your finances effectively. Remember, when seeking funding, clearly articulate the purpose and impact of your club, and provide a compelling case for why financial support is necessary.

Q: How can I effectively publicize my high school club to attract members? A: Publicizing your club is crucial for attracting members and generating interest. Consider the following strategies:

• Utilize social media platforms popular among high school students, such as Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Create engaging posts, share updates about club activities, and encourage interested individuals to reach out.
• Leverage your school's communication channels, such as newsletters, bulletin boards, or morning announcements. Submit articles or announcements highlighting your club's mission, upcoming events, and membership opportunities.
• Design eye-catching posters and flyers to hang around the school. Include key information about your club, meeting times, and contact details.
• Collaborate with other clubs or organizations that share similar interests or values. Cross-promote each other's activities and events to reach a wider audience.
• Consider hosting an introductory meeting or open house where potential members can learn more about your club and its objectives.
• Encourage current club members to share their experiences and invite their friends to join. Remember, consistency in your communication and the use of compelling visuals will help grab attention and pique the interest of potential members.

These FAQs and detailed responses should provide you with valuable insights and guidance as you embark on the journey of starting a club in high school. Good luck!

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35 Unique High School Club Ideas to Start at Your School

Last updated July 23, 2024

Being involved with clubs in high school is awesome because it gives you opportunities to explore your passions, connect with others who have similar interests, and have fun! Interested in joining a high school club but not finding one that appeals to you? Start your own! We share 35 unique high school club ideas to start at your school.

Types of high school clubs.

High school clubs typically fall into one of three categories:

• Subject area  – Clubs that focus on specific academic subjects, like math or writing.
• Hobby  – Clubs that focus on specific hobbies or interests, like Fortnite or crocheting.
• Community service  – Clubs that focus on making an impact in the community, like volunteering at a local food bank.

Need some inspiration?

Here’s a list of 35 unique clubs started by students that totally worked at other high schools!

• African-American History Club
• Key Club or Charity Club
• Waffle Club
• Comic Book Club
• Gaming Club
• Skateboarding
• Pokémon Club
• Art Review Magazine
• Sculpture Club
• Monologue Club
• Improv Club
• Scriptwriting Club
• Foreign Cooking Club
• Love Against Hate Club
• Vegan Life Club
• Makeup Artists Club
• Debate Club or Mock Trial
• Wizards & Muggles Club
• Foodie Club
• Free Hug Club
• Cooking Club
• Zombie Survival Club
• Lumberjack Club
• Dumbledore’s Army
• Voice Actor’s Club
• Skill-And-Tell Club
• Fashion Club and Upcycling vintage clothing
• Sign Language Club
• UAB (Us Against Bullying) Club
• Children’s Hospital Volunteer Club
• Nursing Home Volunteer Club
• Big Brother Big Sister
• Computer Development Club
• Soup Kitchen Volunteer Club
• Photography Club
• STEM Council

Interested in starting a club at your school? Let us know on Instagram @getschooled or by texting #Hello to 33-55-77 . If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you !

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Extracurriculars.

20 High School Clubs to Build Your Resume

Do you have a plan for applying to college?

With our free chancing engine, admissions timeline, and personalized recommendations, our free guidance platform gives you a clear idea of what you need to be doing right now and in the future.

Extracurricular activities will offer some of the greatest challenges and rewards of your high school years. The goal for ECs is to explore your interests while building skills that will help in college and your future career.

One great way to get involved is to start a club. If you think starting a club might be right for you, check out our list of 20 great clubs that you could bring to your school.

20 Great Clubs to Found at Your School

1. american red cross.

The American Red Cross intervenes to prevent and relieve suffering around the globe, with volunteers carrying out 90% of humanitarian aid. Learn more about how to get involved by visiting their website .

2. Amnesty International

This U.S. based non-profit is dedicated to defending human rights for everyone on the planet. Learn how you can increase awareness and organize support at your high school by visiting Amnesty International’s website .

3. Days for Girls

Days for Girls provides menstrual education and kits so women in developing countries can take care of their bodies and play a more active role in local enterprises. Fundraising for kits and education programs is the best way for high school groups to get involved.

4. Envirothon

Envirothon is dedicated to teaching young people the best practices of natural resource management. The regular competitions foster a friendly environment in which to tackle complex resource management decisions.

5. Future Farmers of America (FFA)

FFA inspires the next generation to lead, grow, and innovate in the agricultural sciences. Look for ways to connect your high school with this broader movement by visiting the FFA website .

6. Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA)

HOSA ‘s two-fold mission is to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all to promote career opportunities in the healthcare industry. High school groups educate peers about health care career opportunities and best practices in the local community.

7. Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC)

JROTC prepares high schoolers for military service, fostering wellness, academic achievement, character, and leadership along the way. If you have ever considered serving your country, look into creating a JROTC program at your high school.

8. Key Club

Key Club creates opportunities for high school students to serve and explore their community, with a focus on building leadership skills. Unlock the door to service, leadership, and character by starting a Key Club at your school.

9. Leadership, Experience, Opportunity (LEO)

LEO clubs create social service opportunities to foster leadership and a service-oriented attitude among high schoolers. You can learn more about LEO by visiting their “Discover our Clubs” webpage .

10. Mu Alpha Theta (MATH)

MATH clubs exist to inspire interest in mathematics and sharpen students’ quantitative skills. To promote a lifelong love of math on your campus, start a MATH club!

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

11. National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC)

The NFMC increases music awareness and education, creates performance opportunities, and promotes local and national music organizations. If the music industry is your passion, consider partnering with the NFMC.

12. Quill and Scroll

Quill and Scroll is an international high school journalism honor society. If you are interested in pursuing a career  in Journalism or increasing your journalistic perspective, this may be the club for you. According to the Quill and Scroll website , over 14,104 high schools in all 50 U.S. states and 44 countries have established local chapters.

13. Science National Honor Society (SNHS)

SNHS builds up a future generation of STEM industry leaders. If you like to spend your free time delving deep into the world of scientific inquiry, learn more about SNHS.

14. Smile Club

Having a cleft condition dramatically increases a child’s chances of dying before they reach adulthood, but with surgery this risk goes away. Operation Smile coordinates volunteers, donors, and staff to bring these surgeries to as many communities in developing nations as possible.  Learn more by visiting the Operation Smile website .

15. Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica

Talented high school students enrolled in Spanish or Portuguese are eligible to join Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica . If you love Spanish or Portuguese and want to become more involved in the language, look into opening a chapter at your school.

16. SourceAmerica

SourceAmerica’s High School Design Challenge gives high school students the opportunity to create real-world solutions that will have an impact on people with disabilities in their own community. Learn more about SourceAmerica’s high school programing by visiting their webpage for high schoolers .

17. Technology Student Association (TSA)

The Technology Student Association exists to develop high schoolers’ skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business education. If you want to learn more about STEM skills and careers, visit the TSA website .

18. Technovation

Technovation offers girls around the world the chance to grow as future tech leaders and entrepreneurs. Girls are given the chance to identify a problem in their community and solve it using technology.

19. United States Chess Federation (USCF)

Whether you are a novice or chess master, USCF opens the door to dozens of competitions and education opportunities to improve your game. To learn more about starting a USCF club at your school, visit the USCF website today.

20. YMCA Youth and Government

The YMCA’s Youth and Government program creates model governments for high schoolers nationwide. Join a movement decades in the making by visiting the Youth and Government webpage .

What should I do if these already exist or don’t appeal to me?

These national and international organizations do offer a lot of support to first-time club founders, but you don’t need a parent organization to start a club of your own. Check out our article on how to pursue non-traditional extracurricular activities .

If you want the experience of founding a club but don’t know how to start, simply…

• Identify an interest of yours or a problem that needs solving.
• Talk about it with your friends to drum up interest.
• Connect with your high school’s main office to learn its process for authorizing a new club.
• Publicize your first meeting.
• Continue to build your vision, adapting based on club member interests.

Founding a club can be tremendously rewarding, since you get to watch your peers grow in an area you love. Good luck!

Looking for help navigating the road to college as a high school student? Download our  free guide for 9th graders  and our  free guide for 10th graders . Our guides go in-depth about subjects ranging from  academics ,  choosing courses ,  standardized tests ,  extracurricular activities ,  and much more !

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The importance of high school clubs: How to approach your involvement

• extracurricular
• expert advice
• how to stand out
• recommendation letters
• high school

​I meant to share this article from a month ago, but, since it’s directed at younger high school students, the advice is still applicable and can/should be implemented now.

No one denies extracurriculars are a worthwhile pursuit. As the article states, “ S tudents who are involved in high school and then continue to be involved on campus . . . generally perform better in the classroom, network better and tend to enjoy their academic experiences more .” But, how should you choose which ones and how many to get involved with?

The obvious answer is to focus on quality over quantity . You can be involved in 10 different clubs, which may sound impressive to people who ask, but you’ll only be viewed as a jack of all trades and a master of none. It is way more valuable to choose an extracurricular activity in which you have a genuine interest and are willing to delve into wholeheartedly. Not only will this passion come across in your application . . . you’ll also be happier as a person. High school is tough enough as it is. Why kill yourself over an activity you don’t even enjoy?

It’s not necessarily even that important to be the captain or president of the sport or club; it’s more important that you be able to demonstrate your commitment and attempt to tie it into what you’d like to pursue at the college level, whether that be academic or extracurricular. Not that you shouldn’t try for a leadership position, because it should be something you strive for, but the point of HS activities is to gain experiences that will guide you in college and beyond .

Let me give you an example:  Most people at my high school got caught up in the rat race of climbing to the top and obtaining an executive position (I did myself.).  Many founded clubs and organizations with only a couple of members just to be able to put that leadership title on their applications. But, I realized how misplaced this all was when I learned about a recommendation letter a teacher wrote for a student in the year below mine. The letter highlighted the fact that, though this student was not the captain of his swim team and was not the best swimmer in the county or even the school, he never missed a practice and never showed up late . . . EVER. His dedication and focus made him an invaluable team member whom the rest of the team could depend on and exhibited a level of maturity that made him stand out as a candidate.

The message is this: demonstrate responsibility, accountability and humility over scrambling for that title. What schools want to see from your extracurriculars is a sustained interest that will translate to how you approach other parts of your life . As the article states, the key is to show you can manage your  time effectively to make the transition to college—an environment of self-management—a seamless one. And, it doesn’t hurt to want to be able to continue to pursue that activity at the college level or be able to tie it in with the bigger picture of your application (e.g., if you’re interested in studying business, get involved in a business-related club).

Associate VP of undergrad admissions at UCF said, “W e are looking for students who have built a resume that suggests ‘I’m interested in this particular discipline, I’ve followed that discipline and it’s been meaningful engagement.’ ”

Takeaway message: pursue what you love and this will not only be apparent in your application but will also enrich your high school experience through personal growth and satisfaction and create a network and support group of people with similar interests.

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Why Should I Join a Students’ Club? The Motivation Behind Participating in Students’ Clubs

• January 2016
• In book: Professional Communication and Translation Studies
• Chapter: Why Should I Join a Students’ Club? The Motivation Behind Participating in Students’ Clubs

• Babeş-Bolyai University

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High school is the ideal time to start balancing leisure time, extracurriculars, and studying. Having a good amount of extracurriculars helps college admissions teams get a glimpse into who you are and what you are like to do. 

Clubs are an important extracurricular as it helps you expand your knowledge in certain topics and you get to meet people who have the same interests as you. 

It’s crucial to choose clubs methodically. Don’t try to get yourself involved in every club the school offers. Instead, try to curate your interests so that they match your passions. Try instead selecting 3-6 clubs that really spark your interest and make sure to stay active within them through your high school career.

However, what happens when there is no club that aligns with one of your interests? Prepare to combine your leadership and organizational skills because this is your chance to create your own club. But how?

1. Understand how high school student clubs work

You will need approval from your school to create your club, therefore you’ll need to have a specific plan to bring forth to the administration. Clubs also require you to have a staff member, like a teacher, who can sponsor and supervise the club and help with organizing events and budgeting. 

There are other leadership opportunities within a club, so you should consider how many people you are going to recruit to help you run the club. Know that creating a club is a huge time commitment. You will most likely have to plan monthly meetings for its members and meetings in between with the leadership group to prepare events and structure timelines and goals. 

Clubs are a place to have fun and they shouldn’t feel like after-school classes. Make sure that you have engaging activities and that you are able to provide knowledge in an exciting way.

2. Generate interest in your school

To start a club, you are going to need a good amount of people to want to join it too, otherwise, it’s just going to be you attending the meetings. To gauge interest, ask classmates and friends if they might want to join your club. If there is a good amount of interest, it’s a good sign your club can prosper. 

From the people who have shown interest, determine if anyone is fit to be part of the leadership team with you. This way, once the club starts, you will already have an organized committee of people you trust. 

3. Brainstorm and draft the club’s goals and mission

Your school’s rules and regulations regarding clubs may be very particular, so make sure to read them carefully before deciding to start this venture. 

Included in this brainstorming, create a marketing campaign for the club to raise awareness of its presence on campus and estimate how many people will become active members to deliberate the budgeting.

Regarding the topic of your club, you need to decide how you are going to present it. In general, clubs fall in three categories: service clubs, academic clubs, and artistic & creative clubs. If you are interested in opening a knitting club, you need to decide the logistics of what you are going to do during your meetings. If you are going to teach people how to knit, you are going to need to finance yarn and needles. 

You are going to need to determine what you are going to do at your weekly meetings and at events. If you already have decided who the leadership team will be, ask them to give you input and advice. 

Make sure you keep true to yourself and to the reason you are opening the club: To bring people together through a cause or subject. 

4. Register your club

Ask a teacher who you know is interested in your club’s subject to sponsor it. If you don’t know a teacher who might be interested, ask around. Maybe your favorite teacher is willing to supervise your club while you direct it. 

After you know in detail how you will be running your club and have a teacher willing to sponsor it, take it up to the administration and fill up a registration form! 

5. Establish a budget

Clubs are easy to finance after you have brainstormed and planned what the goals and events will look like. It allows you to determine what items you are going to need and how many of them. This is mostly the job of a treasurer, so make sure you have someone in your leadership team who can help with that. 

Some schools will give you a stipend to make sure you can run your club, but sometimes it is not enough. For example for a knitting club, you need to get a good amount of yarn and needles to make sure you have enough for everyone. It is not a bad idea to collect fees and perhaps make some fundraisers. 

Always consider your options. A lot of places might donate to your club or you can reach out to some services for a student discount. 

6. Keep it going!

Once your club is up and running, make sure you put in the time and effort it deserves. Keep engagement by making meetings at least monthly and tracking assistance. If you see less people are showing up, assess how you can re-engage them and what changes need to be done to make sure your club is fun! 

Before you reach your last year of high school, appoint someone who will be a good successor by keeping your principles and views a priority. Give them and your teacher supervisor all the knowledge they need before you go.

Creating a club is not that hard as long as you are committed and excited about the club you are creating. Take advantage of this opportunity, as not a lot of students get to experience this sense of leadership and commitment before they enter college! It is your responsibility to keep this club running, so make sure you nurture it and help it blossom. 

• April 29, 2021
• 10th Grade , 11th Grade , 12th Grade , 9th Grade , College Admissions

Starting Your Own Student Club in High School

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September 7, 2024 by Our Reporter

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Oar-some welcome home for Olympic medal-winning rower Esme

STRATFORD upon Avon Boat Club gave an oar-some welcome home to their own Olympic medallist.

Esme Booth was part of GB women’s coxless four who won silver at the Paris Olympics.

She was in the boat alongside Helen Glover, Rebecca Shorten and Samantha Redgrave who were pipped for gold by just 0.19 seconds by the Dutch crew.

Those who greeted on Sunday included teachers from her primary school who introduced her to rowing, coaches from Stratford Boat Club and King Edward VI Boat Club, fellow club members, Stratford major Jason Fojtik, together with family and friends.

Stratford Boat Club president Paul Stanton said: “Many years ago, a good colleague of mine and I saw Esme rowing in her early years and both commented that she was an Olympian in the making.

“We are so proud of Esme and the honour she has brought to the club and to Stratford in general.”

And the club’s co-ordinator Steve Wellstead said Esme was an inspiration.

“For the youngsters to see rowing at this high level and what can be achieved through hard work and determination was inspirational and will be a constant encouragement to engage in sport whether for competition, recreation or physical and mental fitness.”

Amanda Bowden, the club’s masters’ vice captain, added Esme was also a role model.

“For all of us to see a women achieve at such a high level and win a silver Olympic medal is an example to us all that women and girls through hard work and determination can reach excellence and Esme’s prowess is a beacon to us all.”

Club chairman Dawson Curnock rounded off the Welcome Home by awarding Esme Life Membership of the club in recognition of her achievement.

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