About

Recreation and Wellbeing, an integral part of the educational mission of the University of Massachusetts and Division of Student Affairs and Campus Life, provides comprehensive recreation and student development opportunities, as well as exceptional programs, services and facilities. Through positively reflecting the interests and values of the UMass community, we actively promote and encourage a lifelong commitment to health and wellbeing.

Inspire growth as leaders in collegiate recreation and challenge norms to awaken potential and change lives.

Customer service is met by understanding the needs and wants of our participants. 

Excellence is achieved through research, assessment and collaboration. 

Safety is job one. 

Education strengthens the value of our program beyond the immediate experience. 

Integrity is fostered through principles of fairness, mutual respect and personal responsibility. 

Fun inspires moments of optimism and happiness one smile at a time.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst acknowledges that it was founded and built on the unceded homelands of the Pocumtuc Nation on the land of the Norrwutuck community.

We begin with gratitude for nearby waters and lands, including the Kwinitekw -- the southern portion of what’s now called the Connecticut River. We recognize these lands and waters as important Relations with which we are all interconnected and depend on to sustain life and wellbeing.

The Norrwutuck community was one of many Pocumtuc Indian towns, including the Tribal seat at Pocumtuc (in present day Deerfield), Agawam (Springfield), and Woronoco (Westfield) to name just a few. The Pocumtuc, who had connections with these lands for millennia, are part of a vast expanse of Algonqiuan relations. Over 400 years of colonization, Pocumtuc Peoples were displaced. Many joined their Algonquian relatives to the east, south, west and north— extant communities of Wampanoag, including Aquinnah, Herring Pond, and Mashpee, Massachusetts; the Nipmuc with a reservation at Grafton/Hassanamisco, Massachusetts; the Narragansett in Kingstown, Rhode Island; Schagticoke, Mohegan and Pequot Peoples in Connecticut; the Abenaki and other Nations of the Wabanaki Confederacy extending northward into Canada; and the Stockbridge Munsee Mohican of New York and Massachusetts, who were removed to Wisconsin in the 19th century. Over hundreds of years of removal, members of Southern New England Tribes would make the journey home to tend important places and renew their connections to their ancestral lands. Such care and connection to land and waters continues to the present day.

Today, Indigenous Nations in southern New England continue to employ diverse strategies to resist ongoing colonization, genocide, and erasure begun by the English, French, Dutch, Portuguese and other European Nations, and that continued when Tribal homelands became part of the United States. Native Americans from Tribal Nations across the U.S. and Indigenous peoples from around the world also travel into these Pocumtuc homelands to live and work. This land has always been and always will be, Native Land.

We also acknowledge that the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a Land Grant University. As part of the Morrill Land Grant Act of 1862, Tribal lands from 82 Native Nations west of the Mississippi were sold to provide the resources to found and build this university.

This Land Acknowledgement is the first step in the university’s commitment to practice intellectual humility whilst working with Tribal Nations toward a better shared future on Turtle Island. We aim to foster understanding, deep respect, and honor for sovereign Tribal Nations; to develop relationships of reciprocity; and to be inclusive of Native perspectives and thriving Native Nations far into the future. Members of Massachusetts-based Tribal Nations who are kin to the historic Pocumtuc contributed their insights in composing this acknowledgement -- namely Tribal representatives from Mashpee, Aquinnah, and Stockbridge Munsee. As an active first step toward decolonization, we encourage you to learn more about the Indigenous peoples on whose homelands UMass Amherst now resides on and the Indigenous homelands on which you live and work.

What Is Land Acknowledgement?

A Land Acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of this land and the enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.

The UMass Land Acknowledgement

In a year-long consultative and deeply collaborative process with respected advisors from local Tribal Nations, the UMass Native Advisory Council co-developed this campus Land Acknowledgement. This Acknowledgement affirms our campus connection and relationship to the land the campus is built upon and our continued connection to the Nations who were the original inhabitants and caretakers of this land. The Land Acknowledgement also affirms our connection and responsibility to the 82 Native nations west of the Mississippi whose homelands were sold through the Morrill Act of 1862. The money from these sales were used to establish this campus as a land-grant institution. The Land Acknowledgement is part of a broader effort of building and sustaining relationships and partnerships with the Native Nations to whom we, as a university community, are connected.

Why Introduce The Practice Of Land Acknowledgement?

• Offer recognition and respect.
• Counter the “doctrine of discovery” with the true story of the people who were already here.
• Create a broader public awareness of the history that has led to this moment.
• Begin to repair relationships with Native communities and with the land.
• Redefine relationship with land and waters. To respect these as living beings.
• Support larger truth-telling and reconciliation efforts.
• Remind people that colonization is an ongoing process, with Native lands still occupied
• Take a cue from Indigenous protocol, opening up space with reverence and respect.
• Inspire ongoing action and relationship building.

How To Utilize A Land Acknowledgement

The Land Acknowledgement may be utilized by the campus community as a means to recognize and reaffirm existing relationships to people and land, honor the complex and difficult history that impacted Native peoples, and educate students, faculty, and staff. Land acknowledgements may be read at the beginning of an event or meeting. They are particularly appropriate at occasions of special significance such as ground breaking ceremonies, building openings, convocations, and large conferences or events.

UMass Amherst does not have a policy requiring Land Acknowledgements. This information is designed to provide resources for offices and event planners who wish to employ this practice in a respectful, appropriate manner.

Land acknowledgement by itself is a small gesture. It becomes meaningful when coupled with authentic relationship and informed action. It is meant as a starting point toward greater public education of Native sovereignty and cultural rights - a critical step toward equitable relationship and reconciliation.

Pronunciations for UMass Land Acknowledgement

• Pocomtuc is pronounced "poh-cum-tuck."
• Norwutuck is pronounced “nor-wuh-tug”
• Mashpee is pronounced “mash-pee”
• Aquinnah is pronounced “uh·kwi·nuh”
• Wampanoag is pronounced “waam·puh·no·ag”
• Nipmuc is pronounced “nip-muk”
• Narragansett is pronounced “neh·ruh·gan·suht”
• Mohegan is pronounced “mow·hee·gn”
• Pequot is pronounced “pee·kwaat”
• Mohican is pronounced “mow·hee·kn”
• Abenaki is pronounced “a·buh·naa·kee”
• Wabanaki is pronounced “waa·bun·aa·kee”

Assumption of Risk & Patron Conduct
Participation in activities at the Recreation Center is voluntary, and participants assume all risk of injury. It is recommended that participants consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program. Inappropriate behavior, such as verbal or physical abuse, harassment, or failure to follow policies, can result in removal from the facility and potential suspension from programs. Misconduct may be reported to the UMass Police Department or Dean of Students.

Photography/Videography
Photography and videography require prior approval, and are not allowed in locker rooms or restrooms.

General Expectations
Participants must follow all rules and staff instructions. Failure to comply may result in loss of access or membership privileges. Recreation & Wellbeing may call the UMass Police if necessary. Participants are responsible for any damage caused to equipment or facilities. The use of informal activity spaces is on a first-come, first-served basis unless otherwise reserved.

Attire
Appropriate athletic apparel and non-marking footwear are required. Clothing that could damage equipment, such as jeans or attire with metal, is prohibited. Jewelry is discouraged, and clothing with offensive language or images is not allowed.

Personal Belongings & Locker Rooms
Recreation & Wellbeing is not responsible for lost or damaged items. Personal locks are allowed only on day-use lockers. Unattended items may be considered abandoned and sent to lost and found. Locker rooms should be used for storing personal items, changing, and showering. Personal items must be removed from lockers at closing.

Lost & Found
Lost items should be turned in to Equipment Checkout. Items with significant value are stored securely and unclaimed items may be donated or discarded.

Food & Beverages
Water in sealable, unbreakable containers is allowed; food, gum, and toothpicks are not permitted beyond the entry turnstiles.

Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco & Nicotine
The Recreation Center is substance-free. Alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and tobacco products are not allowed. The use of the center under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.

Cell Phones
Cell phone use is allowed only in the main lobby and Courtside Café area.

Spitting
Spitting is prohibited in activity and common areas, and is allowed only in cuspidors.

Patron Access

• Valid UCard: Required for entry; applicable to full-time undergraduate students (12+ credits), faculty/staff, graduate/continuing education students, alumni, and associate members. No UCard = No entry.
• ID Requirements: UCard must have a legible photo, name, and SPIRE number. Photocopies are not accepted.
• Controlled Access: Only authorized users (current UMass students and members) can enter. Non-members or expired members cannot access the facility.
• Guest Access: Members can bring up to two guests per day for $10 each ($5 with discount coupon). Guests must be at least 18 years old and present a valid photo ID. The sponsoring member must accompany their guest at all times.
• Misuse of UCard: Using someone else’s UCard is prohibited and subject to disciplinary action, including suspension from the Recreation Center.

Hotel UMass Guests

• Hotel guests can purchase guest passes with a completed referral form and valid ID. They may also check out equipment with proper ID as security.

Recreation & Wellbeing reserves the right to deny access to any guest.

Participant Information

• Lifeguards' instructions must be followed at all times.
• A swim test may be required before entering deep water.
• Valid ID (UCard or guest pass) is required for entry. Guests must have a sponsor with a recreation membership.
• Minimum age for pool use is 6. Children (6-17) must be supervised by an adult with a valid membership or guest pass.
• Shower before entering. Patrons with certain health conditions or diseases are prohibited from entering.
• Proper swimwear required; no shorts, cutoffs, or yoga pants.
• Only bare feet or slip-resistant shoes allowed on the pool deck.
• Store personal belongings in lockers and keep the pool deck clear.
• Lanes are designated by speed: Lanes 1-2 for slow swimmers, 3-4 for medium, and 5-6 for fast. Swim in the appropriate lane.
• Enter occupied lanes only after the swimmer acknowledges you.
• Two swimmers in a lane can split or use circle swimming. Three or more should use counter-clockwise circle swimming.
• Rough play, diving in shallow water, and breath-holding contests are prohibited.
• No spitting, nose-blowing, or discharging bodily fluids in the pool.
• Use only goggles, fins, and hand paddles. No face masks or snorkels.
• Return equipment like kickboards and pull buoys to proper storage.
• No food, drink, or gum. Water is allowed in non-breakable containers.
• Substance-free facilities: No alcohol, drugs, or tobacco.
• Unauthorized photography/videography is prohibited.
• Non-compliance with rules may result in removal from the facility.
• Lightning/Thunder Policy: Pools close for 30 minutes after lightning or thunder; re-open after 30 minutes of no strikes.

Pool Use Categories

• Lap Swim: Swimmers must adhere to lane designations and rules. Children (6-17) are not allowed.
• Open Swim: No diving in the shallow end. Family swim allowed for minors with an adult sponsor.
• Family Swim: Each family member must have valid membership or guest pass. Children must be supervised by an adult sponsor.
• Disabled Swim: PAL lift is available for disabled swimmers at Boyden.

Activity Areas

• Use equipment properly and for its intended purpose. Follow safety procedures including warming up and cooling down.
• Jewelry should be removed before using equipment.
• Wipe down equipment with disinfectant after use.
• Report malfunctioning equipment to staff.
• Personal music devices are allowed with headphones.
• Activity Rooms: Used for group fitness classes and RSOs. Equipment should stay within the room.
• Boxing Area: Wear gloves or hand wraps when using speed and heavy bags.
• Cardiovascular Areas: Limit use during peak times and ensure no personal items obstruct equipment.
• Gymnasium: No dunking except during games. No shooting while full games are in progress. Challenge court for pick-up games only.

General Building Rules

• Motorized transportation (hoverboards, scooters, etc.) is prohibited inside the facility.
• Bikes, scooters, and skateboards should be stored outside or in designated lockers.
• Closing Procedures: Activity areas close 15 minutes before the facility closes. Equipment should be returned and areas vacated by closing time.
• Emergency or weather-related closures will be announced via the website and phone.

Equipment Checkout

• UCard required for checking out sports equipment.
• You are responsible for all items checked out.
• Lost or damaged equipment must be reimbursed.

Facility Guidelines

• No unattended children in the lobby or Café area.
• Music volume will be regulated and personal speakers are prohibited.
• Photography/videography is prohibited without approval.
• Only service animals allowed in the facility.
• Facility areas are under 24-hour video surveillance.

• Sanctions for Misconduct in Programs:

  • Misconduct in programs can result in removal and suspension.
  • Individuals must meet with senior staff to resolve issues before regaining eligibility.
  • Sanctions for specific programs may still allow access to other facilities unless stated otherwise.

• Attire for Activities:

  • Appropriate athletic attire is required.
  • Shoes must be clean, closed-toe, and rubber-soled.
  • Clothing must cover the buttocks and chest.
  • Jewelry and offensive/profane clothing are not permitted.