Athletics & Recreation

A proud member of the Ivy League, Penn offers many unique and exciting opportunities for students to cheer on our Quakers, participate in competitive team sports, and stay physically fit at state-of-the-art, world-class training centers. 

Your coursework will keep your mind busy, and we know movement and connection are important for keeping you happy and healthy at Penn. Whether you’re looking to compete in varsity sports, try out a new workout class, participate in an intramural league, or join a sports club just for fun, there’s something for everyone to reach their fitness and social goals here at Penn! 

Fun Facts

Students competing in the 2024 Penn Relays
Penn Relays

Every year, Franklin Field plays host to the Penn Relays, the largest and longest-running track and field meet in the United States.

Interior view of Penn's Palestra basketball court
The Palestra

Known as the “Cathedral of College Basketball,” Penn’s Palestra has hosted more NCAA tournament games than any other arena.

The Penn Band playing through campus for their centennial celebration
The Penn Band

The University’s 100+ member band has rallied the Red and Blue faithful while spurring Penn’s teams to victory for more than 110 years.

John Baxter Taylor Jr. races in the 1908 Summer Olympics in London
Penn Olympians

Over 200 Olympic athletes have represented Penn in summer games from 1900 to 2021

Eagles practicing on Franklin Field
Go Birds!

Eagles fans celebrate the team’s connection to Penn’s historic football stadium. The Philadelphia Eagles practiced and competed on Franklin Field for a decade through 1970.