FAQs
What does the Yale Climbing Team do?
YCT is both an Yale undergraduate club sport and a social community for rock climbers across campus. We hold “practices” three times a week at City Climb, a gym in New Haven. In addition, we hold weekly team dinners, waffle socials, mixers, holiday parties, and more.
When do you practice? Are practices required?
YCT holds official team practices from 8pm-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays, and from 10am-12pm on Saturdays (followed by team brunch). Walking groups will depart campus from the Women’s Table on XC fifteen minutes prior (at 7:30pm on M/Th and 9:45am on Sat). We ask that team members attend at least one practice a week.
How does financial aid work?
YCT maintains a full understanding that climbing is an expensive sport; we believe that everyone should be able to access a climbing gym regardless of financial circumstances. As such, any undergraduate members (no matter their financial aid contract with the university) can apply for financial aid through YCT. YCT will be happy to cover a portion or all of your City Climb membership costs to ensure you can climb with us.
Because our financial aid pool is comprised of the dues of fellow team members, we ask those seeking financial aid to submit and simple application and sign a contract ensuring their commitment to YCT for the semester. 2022-2023 financial aid applications will become available mid-September.
Does YCT compete?
Yes. The Yale Climbing Team competes in USA Climbing’s Collegiate League. Between October and February, we travel across the Northeast to attend climbing competitions. Competing is optional for members but highly encouraged! YCT attended Collegiate Nationals a couple of years ago.
Do I need previous climbing experience?
No! In fact, most members of YCT have climbed very little or not at Yale before coming to Yale. One of the best things about climbing is how quickly you improve—and this year, we’re proud to be introducing Training Captains, Mazie and Daniel, who will host intro to climbing sessions and technique workshops.
I’m a first-year. How do I join the Yale climbing team?
So happy to have you. Please visit our “Class of 2026” page for all info on joining YCT as a frosh (we call you PEBBLES).
How do I join the Yale climbing team? (sophomores and older)
If you’re NOT a first-year student, you can join YCT by 1. getting on our email list/GroupMe, 2. purchasing a City Climb membership (our local climbing gym) and 3. paying $40 dues to YCT.
On dues: Yale Club Sports funds climbing competitions only, so we use dues to finance social events, subsidize climbing gear, and cover financial aid for those who request it. See Financial Aid FAQ for more info
How do you get to practice?
City Climb in a short walk (20-25 mins) and even shorter bike ride (<10 mins) from central campus. While team members are welcome to go on their own, we encourage members to join the walking groups! As is gets colder and darker, YCT will use shuttles to get to practice.
Can graduate students join YCT?
Yes! Graduate students are encouraged to attend practices and social events. However, due to USA climbing rules and regulations, graduate students cannot compete with the team.