For an immediate answer before emailing, check whether we've already answered your question below. If we haven't answered your question please email AthleticUnion@cardiff.ac.uk and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
Where can I find out about the AU sports clubs?
Our 74 affiliated sports clubs within the Athletic Union (AU) can be viewed here. Every club has their own webpage, which details their activity, training, membership, contact details and more.
Most of our clubs use social media, predominantly Instagram, where updates and information can also be found.
How should I contact clubs to get involved?
Every sport club has their own @Cardiff email, which can be found on the club webpage. These are monitored by committee who can answer any queries you might have.
Contacting them on social media is also a great way to get in touch!
Am I able to try a sport before buying a membership?
The Students’ Union run a Give it a Go programme, in which sports clubs can offer taster sessions to those interested in trying something new before purchasing a membership.
These sessions often run at the beginning of the academic year in September / October, and again in January for some clubs. Keep an eye out at Freshers’ Fairs, on social media and club webpages for information.
Can I be in more than one club?
Yes! You can join as many clubs as you’d like and can fit in around your studies.
You will need to purchase the club membership for each club you’re wishing to join. AU membership only needs to be bought once.
The only exception would be if a top up from a Tier 2 to Tier 1 AU membership is required, due to joining a Tier 2 club initially. If this is the case, it will pop up during the checkout process to be added to basket.
Where do sports clubs train and when?
Our clubs train in many different locations, including the University Sport facilities, as well as external facilities around Cardiff. Exact information can be found on club webpages.
Do you have to trial to join a sports club / team?
Not all sports clubs have trials. Some might for team selection only, whilst some may hold them to manage membership numbers. Some don’t hold them at all.
Trial information is available on club webpages and social media, but you can also ask clubs directly at Freshers’ Fairs.
How much is the AU membership?
We have two different memberships – which you buy is determined by which club(s) you are joining. Tier 1 membership is £tbc, Tier 2 membership is £tbc.
The correct AU membership will automatically pop up during the checkout process for you to add to basket. You will not be able to purchase a club membership without also purchasing the AU membership.
What is my AU membership paying for?
AU membership contributes towards a number of things, incuding but not limited to:
Transport Provision
- We have a fleet of vehicles available to affiliated groups and provisions for students to undergo driver training with our Transport Coordinator.
Personal Accident Insurance
Staff Support
- Every club within the AU has a designated staff contact to support committee with the running of the club.
Financial support
- The AU offer a Grant oppertunity in which all clubs can apply for Equiptment (Term 1 only) and Activity grants
- The AU subsidise various exteral facilities for club trainings
- The AU fund BUCS activity as clubs primary activity
Webpage access and maintenence
Access to facilities and storage
Do I need an AU membership as well as a club membership?
Yes, you must purchase an AU membership as well as a club membership. You will not be able to checkout without both memberships.
How do I know which AU membership I need?
The required AU membership (tier 1 or 2) will automatically pop up during the checkout process for you to add to basket.
How do I get a club and / or AU membership refund?
Club membership refunds must be requested via the club. Please contact the committee / club directly, as they will need to send us their approval for the refund.
AU membership is non-refundable after a 14-day cooling off period from being purchased.
Who should I reach out to if I have a concern?
Every club should have their own Wellbeing Officer. If you are comfortable doing so, please contact them (found on the club webpage) and they will be able to signpost to the relevant individuals and services.
Alternatively, the Students’ Union operates a Student Advice service. They are an impartial, independent, confidential and non-judgmental service that can support you with your wellbeing if you wish. You can contact them at advice@cardiff.ac.uk or by calling 029 20 781 410.
What should I do if I’m having issues when trying to checkout on the SU website?
When trying to checkout on the Students’ Union website, there are occasions where anti-fraud checks appear. If this is the case, please ensure that the address you provide during the checkout process is the same address the card is registered to.
If this hasn’t worked or there’s a different issue, please visit the Finance Office on the 3rd floor of the Students’ Union, just down the corridor from the Activities Department. They are open Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 16:00.
How can I become more involved in the AU?
Aside from joining one of our sports clubs, there is the opportunity to become a committee member of your club and/or join the AU Executive Committee. This is an opportunity to work alongside our VP Sports and AU President to shape and support the work they do. This could include supporting them in the development of policy, running outreach activity, or simply putting on events and activities students want to see.
The AU Exec form a link between the AU President and Clubs. They will meet twice a month, provide feedback and hold the AU President accountable to their manifesto and duties.
A Sports Club committee members can apply in the Autumn elections or by completing an application of interest form. Keep an eye out on the SU website and communications from VP Sports at the start of year to find out more!
Is there a process to start a new club?
If you’re interested in starting a sports club which doesn’t already exist, please email AthleticUnion@cardiff.ac.uk. You will be required to complete a new club application form, providing details of the proposed club activity. You would be required to have a President, Treasurer and Secretary, as well as the signatures of 20 students pledging to join the club if the application is successful.