Hobby Horsing Coming to UWSP

[Editor’s Note: This article is a part of The Pointer’s annual satirical April Fools’ edition, the Pointless. Pointless stories should not be taken seriously on April Fool’s Day or any other.]

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point became the first public university in the nation to include hobby horsing in its roster for spring sports. 

In an attempt to put UW-Stevens Point on the map, Director of Athletics, Brad Duckworth has made the bold move to add the heavily debated sport to the university’s roster in hopes of creating a wave of participation in the event. 

Hobby horsing, which involves athletes performing show routines and agile obstacle courses, will make its first appearance on campus in the spring of 2027. 

After debate between faculty and a few intense Reddit deep dives into the complexities of the sport, university officials say they hope the decision will bring a more positive light to UWSP sports. 

“We are always looking for new ways to steer the light away from the football team, so this decision felt like a no-brainer,” said Duckworth. “Hobby horsing is just one of those sports that no one takes seriously when in reality it is one of the most difficult sports for athletes to pull off.” 

According to athletes that participate in other sports on campus, the amateur team is already taking players away from the sports that brought them to campus in the first place. 

The university has shared that students in the Noel Fine Arts Center will be crafting custom hobby horses in UWSP colors and special markings for each participant in the sport. These preparations are in anticipation of competing at a national level in the spring. 

While logistics of the upcoming season are still in the works, university officials have confirmed helmets will not be required for athletes, but strong imagination is highly encouraged. This preference comes at a time of high anticipation of success for the spring season of the sport.  

Sophomore English major Mike Park said the new addition of hobby horsing to campus is giving her motivation to shift her focus from writing poetry for Substack to supporting campus athletics. 

“The addition of hobby horsing is exactly what students need to get excited about campus athletics again.” said Park

While some critics have questioned the competitive legitimacy of the sport, administrators insist hobby horsing reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and creativity in campus life and athletic programming. 

“The sports world is always changing,” Duckworth said. “If esports can be legitimized as a collegiate sport, we can certainly put hobby horsing in the same conversation.” 

Tryouts will take place in September 2026, giving team members ample time to prepare for a hopeful first spring season and a chance to compete at the national level

Ethan Laufenberg

Graphic Designer

llauf293@uwsp.edu