Creighton launches premier-level club sports teams

Creighton University is excited to announce premier-level club sports for men and women, set to launch this fall. The inaugural teams will feature lacrosse, hockey and golf, with plans to expand the program in the future.

Designed for high-achieving students, the premier club teams provide an opportunity to compete at a level comparable to NCAA Division 2 or 3 or NAIA, while maintaining a balance between academics and other aspects of college life. The teams will train under professional coaches, have organized practices and training, and wear Creighton Bluejay uniforms.

Under the direction of Clay Caswell, who joined Creighton in fall 2024, Creighton's premier club teams will give former varsity high school athletes the chance to excel at their sport while pursuing a prestigious Creighton degree.

“Building off Creighton’s history of athletic success, premier club sports will strive to develop teams and players who are passionate about their sport, have a strong desire to compete as a Creighton Bluejay and will be committed to continuing our tradition of excellence,” says Caswell.

The new program meets a growing demand for elite-level competition. With selective opportunities for student-athletes at the NCAA level, the premier club teams are a way to continue playing the sport they love—with the benefits of Creighton’s renowned academic and supportive campus environment.

Jake Massey, head coach of the premier men's lacrosse team, emphasizes the importance of this addition to Creighton’s athletic options.

“The premier sports program will use the incredible resources available at Creighton to provide structure to a traditional club sports model, allowing for a competitive men’s lacrosse team that can compete regionally and nationally,” he explains, “while the students have an all-encompassing college experience.”

Creighton’s premier clubs program is making it possible for students to keep playing and competing—while earning a nationally ranked education.

“With collegiate athletic opportunities becoming more limited, this is a way that we can provide more students a chance to compete as a Creighton Bluejay at the collegiate level,” says Caswell.

Recruiting is actively underway. For students interested in joining a premier club sports team, they can contact premiersports@creighton.edu or 402.280.3061 or complete the recruiting questionnaire.