The Ultimate Travel Guide to Footy Fest Weekend in The Catskills
Footy Fest Weekend is almost here and we've got all the travel tips, restaurant recs, and best of the Catskills picks.
Your top list of road side must-sees, restaurants with a view and weekend activities guaranteed to make your upstate adventure memorable, whether or not you'll also be playing some footy.
The hype is real: Footy Fest Weekend is the main event the NYC Footy community looks forward to the most. If you're still unsure about attending our one-of-a-kind tournament this year, just know going out on a limb and signing up means you'll be leaving upstate New York with brand new friends (and possibly new teammates for your next NYC Footy league adventure).
The Footy Fest origin story is a tale for the ages
This is unlike any other tournament you'll ever be a part of, so to make sure all the details you might be worrying about are put to rest, we're dropping this handy tournament and travel guide. Personal fan clubs, sports agents, Uber drivers, and drifters you might pick up around the Woodstock exit are welcome to attend the tournament as spectators even if they aren't registered to play (but sadly, they can't sub if you're down one).
Below, you'll find our recommendations broken down by each day's activities. We've highlighted our favorite restaurants, cideries, hiking trails, and the ever so popular miscellaneous activities.
Travel Tips: Know Before You Go
We're ready to welcome you with open arms, but before you hit the road, remember...
Wifi is spotty, so if you're coming from out of town, load up those directions early. A strong wifi and cell phone connection can be an issue no matter who your carrier is because Catskills magic plays tricks on technology, so be prepared to lose service, get it back, and repeat this cycle throughout the weekend.
WFTR (Work from the Road) Friday and leave early. If you try to dip 2pm or later, you're guaranteed to add 30 min to an hour to your drive. If you leave late and expect to find food after 9pm you may be SOL.
When you're not dressed to play, you'll want to layer up. You probably already know the mountains are cool place come fall, so be prepared to pack plenty of sweats (or pick up some on sale at The Footy Store).
Friday: Where To Stop On the Road to Delhi
Carpooling works up the appetite; here's a few spots that make for an awesome break
The Phoenicia Diner: the most famous pit stop on Rt. 28 (Photo: Phoenicia Diner)
To Eat
The Kaatskeller (Friday: 5PM-9PM) - Off Rt.17
Footy CEO's #1 recommendation for a pitstop en route to the Fest is Livingston Manor's Kaatskeller. If you're taking route 17, get off at the Livingston Manor exit and grab east at this gem of an upstate pizza biergarten.
Phoenicia Diner (Friday: 8 AM - 6PM) Off Rt. 28
Perhaps the most well known spot to grab a bite in the Catskills, this diner dates back to 1962 but its modern menu caters to every dietary need.
Oakley's Wood Fired Pizza & Grill (Arkville) (Friday: 12 PM -10 PM) Orr Rt. 28
The move here is to split a pizza on the outdoor patio under heat lamps at this road side pit stop with epic views.
Bread Alone Cafe (Boiceville) (Friday: 7 AM - 5 PM) Off Rt. 28
After stopping in this roadside cafe from the Bread Alone, don't leave without picking up some pastries and fresh loaves for the road.
80 Main (Delhi) (Friday: 5 PM - 9PM)
Chef Will Johnson founded the Catskills Pasta Company before turning his attention to opening his own spot in Delhi. It tends to get crowded so making a reservation is advised - as well as the IDGAF tasting menu because why not let the chef make decisions on what you should eat after a long road trip.
To Drink
The Print House (Fleischmanns) (Friday: 3 PM-11 PM)
A dimly lit cocktail bar with a decent record collection, The Print House might be the place you wind up pulling over if you're in need of elevated bar fare like wings and flatbread pizzas near Belleayre Mountain. Though there isn't a schedule posted well in advance, they often have llve music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Wayside Cider (Andes) (Friday: 5 PM - 10 PM)
Who doesn't want to loosen up with late night ping pong and a charcuterie board comprised of locally sourced cheeses? Wayside's relaxed setting and selection of games is the perfect place to unwind if youre not entirely ready to unpack the car.
To Stretch Your Legs
Ashokan Rail Trail (Boiceville) (Friday: 6 AM - 8 PM)
A beautiful, easy to walk trail with views of the Ashokan Reservoir, you might be tempted to stay here to watch the sunset but just know you'll still have a ways to go.
Brunel Park (Boiceville) (Friday: 1 PM -5 PM)
Who doesn't love a self-guided walking tour filled with artfully placed sculptures? The Catskills is a great plae to explore your artistic side on the field, so why not get some inspiration on the road?
Saturday: The Tournament and After Party
Footy Fest is all about befriending someone you can build a human wall with
The Tournament
The reason you signed up. We're here to escape our daily grind with a blend of footy you might not be familiar with: the incredibly elusive "I don't know what my teammate is capable of because I just met my teammate." So while you won't know all of your teammates as of this reading, you will most definitely be playing with a few familiar faces.
Here's quick overview of what to expect along with a few FAQs:
You can play with up to three friends on your team. The rest will be handled by NYC Footy.
Did you come with a group filled with players of different skill levels? Not to worry captains: our team here will do the work of dividing up your friends for you based on their individual division preferences.
Each team will play five 20-minute 7v7 games. The top two teams in each group move to divisional playoffs (Semi-final & Final)
The tournament will take place from 9 AM to 5 PM so please plan your travel to the American Legion Fields accordingly.
1. What kind of footwear should I bring?
We recommend non-metal cleats. But you can wear turf shoes or sneakers as well.
2. What happens if I need medical attention during the tournament?
Local EMT's will be on hand to help with any medical requests or emergency situations such as injuries.
3. How many jerseys will my team get for Footy Fest?
Since rosters are composed of 10 players each, that means you'll be getting 10 jerseys. including a keeper jersey. If you're looking for additional Footy merchandise to commemorate Footy Fest 2024, we'll have our merchandise table set up and ready to go through the duration of the tournament.
Memories are great but also invisible. Footy Fest champ swag is real.
The After Party (And After After Party)
There is no better feeling than Catskills tavern vibes after a long day of soccer.
1. The Shire Pub (Delhi) (5:30PM-8:30PM)
NYC Footy has teamed up once again with The Shire Pub in Delhi to host our post tournament after party, which will include dinner and an open bar. We'll be sending a ticket link to every registered player within the next week so that you can purchase an official after party entrance ticket.
Though there's only so much space indoors, this year we're bringing tents and space heaters to The Shire's patio, which means we can fit even more
The Footy Fest Favorites List
Our favorite Catskills spots for the things we love most are listed below
The taproom at Wayside Cider is our pick for the best Catskills vibe.
The Best Tasting Menu: Brushland Eating House (Bovina Center)
The destination restaurant with really big portions that you don't want to pass up. We checked what's happening on Footy Fest Weekend and while they're closed Saturday and Sunday, there's availability for their one nightly 7pm seating on Thursday October 10 and Friday October 11, both of which you can book via Resy.
The Best Catskills Vibe: Wayside Cider (Andes)
Don't be surprised if an old time mountain band is playing when you walk in. The coziest spot for local cider and an interesting locally sourced menu (smoked trout croquettes anyone?), Wayside hits all the notes on what you need to experience when escaping NYC.
The Best Breakfast Taco: Hollow's chorizo and egg taco (Delhi)
Don't overthink the power of chorizo or the force that lies within the tiny space known as Hollow. Grab a breakfast taco here and grab one of their lunch sandwiches to go just to be safe.
Eating Oda Wine Garden's Balkan platter is a true team effort .Photo: Shaaj Vijay)
The Best Shared Plate: The Balkan Platter at Oda Wine Garden(Margaretville)
This Georgian spot just expanded its Margaretville dining room while celebrating its one year anniversary. We think its Balkan platter had something to do with it. A changing assortment of cured meats, cheeses, pickled veggies, and specialties like Burek make this indoor spot with a patio a must.
The Best Pie: Magpies on Pink Street (Andes)
You'll want to get on Maggie McDowell's email list and order one or all of her seasonal pies online fa few days before driving to Delhi. A fixture at the Delhi Farmer's Market, her pies can currently be picked up on Main Street at the Andes General Store on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 12pm (but since that's tournament time you may want to recruit a friend to come up with you to specifically assist you in securing this pie)
The Best Sandwich Stop Before Heading Home: Rosie's (Kingston)
You're only option to visit this place is going to be Sunday from 9am-4pm (note: the kitchen closes at 3pm) but if you plan on hitting the road early and need a spot right before hitting 1-87, Rosie's is a worthwhile excursion.
The Best General Store Selection: Doolitttles (Fleischmanns)
This colorful cafe offers coffee and pastries, but the real reason to visit is to stock up on those fancy ingredients like spaghetti dust and cherry pepper mayo that will make your weekend dinner party epic.
The Best General Store for Chefs: First Bloom Corner Store (Bloomsville)
Food journalist and chef Alison Roman's tiny general store is guarded by a cat named Lentil and features seasonal goodies like ramp butter (though that will likely not be available because it's not ramp season). It's pretty much the perfect place to pick up ingredients if you feel like making a team dinner but just keep in mind they're only open from 10 AM to 4 PM.
The Best Breakfast Sandwich: Tiny's at Hamden General (Hamden)
The new home of the best egg sandwich in the Catskills (seriously, there's a video dedicated to it), this general store and it's pop up sandwich operation Tiny's is full of outstanding cheeses, breads, and anything else you might need to make one heck of a charcuterie board.
The Best Shopping Experience: Catskill Outpost (Stamford)
Don't leave without leveling up your mountain fashion at this Footy Founder favorite. Catskill Outpost sits alongside one helluva coffee shop (Stamford Coffee) and offers a wide assortment of killer apparel, soaps, scents, artwork, survival supplies and more.
Leisure Activities
Putt Putt Van Winkle is a must visit for any mini golf fan Photo: Venus Zhang/Google
Mini Golf at Putt Putt Van Winkle (10AM-6PM)
Is mini golf the best way to bond with your teammates? While we don't know the answer to that, what we do know is that Putt Putt Van Winkle is a one of kind course/art installation that epitomizes the quirky, laid back vibe of the Catskills.
Golf at The College Golf Course at Delhi (7:30AM-7PM)
Sticking with thanyone is up for a little Sunday golfing at one New York Stae's premier courses? Let us know and we'll book a group tee time or just head on out to the driving range.
Hiking Trails
We're partial to the Palmer Hill Trail in Andes for its incredible views, but depending on what you want out of a hike, the Great Western Catskills has everything from easy to walk rail trails to tmore advanced mountain climbs.
"The hottest club in Delhi is The Farm. This place has got everything" - Stephon, SNL
OTHER EVENTS
Friday Oct. 11 through Sunday October 13 (10AM-6PM)
Field & Supply Fall Market (Kingston)
This annual market featuring 275+ vendors is taking over Hutton Brickyards the same weekend Footy Fest descends upon. Delhi. This is worth checking out if you're looking to bring a taste of the Catskills back home.
Sunday Oct. 13
Food
Sunday Brunch at the Farm (Delhi)
As is Footy Fest tradition, G and T will be hosting brunch at the farm. Come out to cure your hangover with an assortment of breakfast standbys, possibly from a familiar face you may recognize from a previous Footy tournament.
Drink
Apple Pressing @ Wayside Cider (Andes)
At 1pm and 2pm, the taproom at Wayside Cider is hosting an apple pressing demonstration where you can keep your weekend workout routine going by pedaling away on the apple grinding bike machine while learning how to make cider from scratch. The juice you press will be turned into cider and aged in a barrel for the winter. If you want to come back in March/April for their amateur cider making contest, you'll be able to be on hand when they tap the barrel to taste your hard work.
Want to register for Footy Fest Weekend as a player or team captain? Sign up here.
The 4 Best Fashion Styles For Footy‘s Fall Fields
We've been working on our off the pitch look during NY Fashion Week and found the perfect fields to match our fashion styles.
Anyone in need of a wardrobe overhaul this fall knows that the Footy community provides positive feedback on personal sense of style. But if you need a pitch to match your outfit, we've got our own limited capsule collection of fields for your consideration.
1. The Urban Adventurer
If we ever offer a barefoot league, you'd be the first to sign up. The thrill of fresh grass under the soles of your feet is too thrilling to pass up, which means stocking up on the latest gorpcore is of great importance as you navigate nature's gnarliest passageways or brunch in Dimes Square.
Your Spirit Pitches: Van Cortlandt Park & Central Park's North Meadow
Where to Shop: 18 East
2. The Time Traveler
Your outfits are like the way you play: a dash of vintage tenacity topped off with the modern flare that makes your opponent's moves look incredibly pedestrian.
Your Spirit Pitches: Grover Cleveland, Thomas Jefferson/Marx Bros & Booker T Washington Playground
Where to Shop: Wythe
3. The Athleisurer
Never not ready to take that corner, your attire screams "I dress for comfort because it makes total sense to be comfortable every day." A fan of pitches with plenty of room for fun, you can play anywhere at anytime but prefer to be surrounded by the most athletic of all complexes.
Your Spirit Pitches: Gaelic Park & Sunset Park
Where to Shop: Vuori (But also The Footy Store has a great selection)
4. The NYC Scene Stealer
Scoring goals isn't the only way you like to grab attention. With your body a canvas for every color and pattern that exists, you're trendy and possibly ill fitting clothes makes fashion forward folks in awe of your confidence.
Your Spirit Pitches: Prospect Park Parade Grounds & Chelsea Piers Field House
Where to Shop: Dover Street Market & James Veloria
7 Fall Season Soccer Superlatives
Need a pitch to pick you up when times get tough living in the Big Apple? Pier 40 Courtyard & Rooftop is our pick for that field that gives you all the feels of NYC when you need it the most.
Not sure where to play now that summer leagues have ended? We're celebrating NYC Footy's fall leagues and pitches with our very own back to school inspired superlatives:
1. The Pitch Most Likely to Turn You Into a Naturalist
Van Cortlandt Park
Want to get out of the city without renting a car? Take the 1 train to the end of the line to Van Cortlandt Park on a Sunday and marvel at what awaits inside NYC's third largest park: the Van Cortlandt Park golf course, the Old Putnam Trail and The Van Cortlandt House Museum are just few ways you can take advantage of this quiet oasis.
2. The League Most Likely to Make You Fall in Love with NYC
Friday Night at Pier 40 Rooftop
The cool breeze coming off the Hudson, the skyline in the background, and the beautiful walk to the pitch through Hudson River Park make Pier 40 a destination at any hour of the day. We're particularly fond of our late night Vampire League here since New York at night is a world we can't live without.
3. The Pitch Most Likely to Make You Fall in Love with the Grind of NYC
Sara Roosevelt Park - Canal St.
This city is filled with people that have places to go and not enough time to take the long way, which means you may see a shopping cart cross midfield from time to time but just roll with it. Sara Roosevelt Park is the people's champ when it comes to our pitch portfolio and you'd be hard pressed to find a field that more accurately represents the hustle better than this LES fixture.
4. The Most Likely To Go Pro If You Play On This Pitch
Gaelic Park (Video)
Gaelic Park is the home of the Manhattan College Jaspers. Named after Brother Jasper who served as the school's first athletic director and baseball coach, his hard work in shaping the college's sports identity (as well as glee club, orchestraliterary club, has now led to this awesome pitch you can now play on with NYC Footy.
5. The League Most Likely To Change the World
Mondays | Crown Heights (Socceroof) | 6v6 Coed (Flip League) | P4
Social change through soccer is a core value here at NYC Footy which is why our FLIP league at Socceroof Crown Heights this fall is the easy answer to this one. We are breaking traditional concepts of what a mixed gender team make up must be, so if you want to be part of a movement this is the league to step right into.
6. Most Artistic
Jacob Schiff Park
Jacob Schiff Park is the home of murals for Pieces for Peace and The Audubon Mural Project, so playing here will undoubtedly unleash your creativity as you paint your very own version of the beautiful game both on and off the pitch.
7. Best Couple
Thomas Jefferson Park and Marx Bros. Playground
What happens when you pair the third president of the United States with the Marx Brothers comedy troupe? While the correct answer to that would be one of hell of a live talk show, we love this Upper East Side pitch pairing as one of the best ways to branch out in an uptown neighborhood.
Want more soccer superlatives? We'll be bringing these back every season to help you decide your future.
The Best Soccer Pitches to Play At If You Love Pizza
Pizza and soccer make the perfect squad: here's our list of the best pitches to play on if you plan on eating pizza afterwards. Photo: Pizza by Lucille's
Splitting a pizza pie post game is a time honored NYC tradition which is why these NYC Footy fields are the top picks when it comes to topping off your night with nearby pizza.
Whether you need to eat after a game or are just always game to eat, pizza is always the easiest answer to what your players really want after a tough win or loss. Truth be told, you wouldn't be wrong if you answered burgers or tacos either, which means we'll probably feature a round up for those at some point.
But today, we're listing NYC Footy's best pizzerias and the pitches closest to them in case great food is a factor in where you plan to play this fall.
Coal goals: The original Patsy's Pizzeria in East Harlem Photo: Patsy's Pizza
Best Old School Pizzeria You Can Eat At: Patsy's Pizzeria (The original!)
Closest Pitches: Thomas Jefferson Park and Harlem River Park
Best New School Pizzeria: L'Industrie Pizza
Closest Pitches: Sternberg Park, Bushwick Inlet Park, and McCarren Park for Williamsburg location; Pier 40 Couryard and Pier 40 Rooftop for West Village location.
Best People Watching Pizzeria: Scarr's Pizza
Closest Pitches: Sara Roosevelt Park - Canal St, Nike Field and Tanahey Playground
Best Celebrity Chef Pizzeria: Wylie Dufresne's Stretch Pizza
Closest Pitches: St. Vartan Park and Peter's Field
Best Pizza Party Vibes: Emmett's on Grove
Closest Pitches: Pier 40 Courtyard and Pier 40 Rooftop
Best Pizzeria That's Always Packed: Rubirosa
Closest Pitches: Sara Roosevelt Park Nike Field and Sara Roosevelt Park - Canal St
Best Pizzeria No One Knows About: Pizza By Lucilles
Closest Pitch: Riverbank State Park
Marinara, vodka, and pesto make up Lucille's MVP slice (Photo: Lucille's)
5 Essential Practice Drills to Train Like an Olympic Soccer Player
If watching the Paris Olympics has you in awe of our nation’s soccer players, here’s five practice drills that can help you start training like an Olympian!
Olympic soccer players have skills that leave audiences in awe. But guess what? While Olympic athletes have an abundance of natural talent, its proper training and technique that earns these players a spot on the official Olympic squad.
So if you're looking to elevate your game and train like an Olympic soccer player, you're in the right place. Here are five essential practice drills that will have you ready for Los Angeles Olympic tryouts before the games descend upon the City of Angels in 2028.
1. The Perfect Pass Drill
Passing is a fundamental skill in soccer, and Olympic soccer players are masters of precise and quick passing. This drill helps improve your accuracy and timing, crucial for maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.
How to Do It:
Set up a series of cones in a straight line, about a foot apart.
Pair up with a teammate or use a wall. Start by passing the ball between the cones using both feet.
As you get comfortable, increase the distance between the cones and quicken the pace.
Focus on crisp, clean passes and controlling the ball with your first touch.
Pro Tip: Challenge yourself by using only your weaker foot for a few rounds. Through repetition and time, you’ll find there are no weak foots anymore, only weak defenders.
2. Dribbling Through Cones
Dribbling is all about control and agility. This drill will help you develop close ball control and improve your ability to maneuver through tight spaces, just like those tricky wingers you see at the Olympics.
How to Do It:
Set up a line of cones about 1-2 feet apart in a zigzag pattern.
Start at one end and dribble the ball through the cones as quickly as possible, using both feet.
Focus on keeping the ball close to your feet and using small touches to navigate through the cones.
For an added challenge, time yourself and try to beat your best time.
Pro Tip: Use different parts of your foot (inside, outside, sole) to get comfortable with various dribbling techniques.
3. Shooting Under Pressure
Olympic players often have to score under pressure, with defenders closing in and the clock ticking down. This drill helps you practice shooting accurately and confidently, even in high-pressure situations.
How to Do It:
Set up a goal with a goalkeeper or target zones (e.g., top corners) if you're practicing alone.
Start at the top of the penalty box with your back to the goal.
Have a teammate (or use a rebounder) pass the ball to you. Turn quickly and shoot on goal.
Focus on your first touch, speed of turn, and shooting accuracy.
Pro Tip: Practice shooting with both feet. Being able to finish with either foot is a valuable skill that can surprise goalkeepers and defenders
4. 1v1 Defense and Attack
One-on-one situations are common in soccer, and being able to win these battles can make a huge difference. This drill is excellent for both defenders and attackers to improve their skills.
How to Do It:
Set up a small grid (about 10x10 meters) with a goal at one end.
Pair up with a teammate, one as the attacker and the other as the defender.
The attacker starts with the ball and tries to score, while the defender tries to stop them.
Focus on defensive positioning, timing, and tackling, and for attackers, work on your dribbling, fakes, and quick changes of direction.
Pro Tip: As a defender, try to steer the attacker towards the sidelines or force them to use their weaker foot.
5. Conditioning and Agility Drill
Olympic players are incredibly fit and agile, able to maintain high intensity throughout the game. This drill will help improve your fitness and agility, making you quicker and more resilient on the field.
How to Do It:
Set up a series of cones or agility ladders in a straight line.
Start with high knees through the agility ladder, then sprint to the first cone, shuffle to the next, and backpedal to the start.
Include different movements like side shuffles, sprints, and backward runs.
Focus on quick feet, proper form, and maintaining high intensity.
Pro Tip: Include ball work in your conditioning drills to simulate game situations. For example, dribble through the cones or take a shot on goal at the end of the drill.
The Results
Training like an Olympic soccer player isn’t just about putting in the hours; it’s about focusing on the right drills and techniques.
So, lace up those cleats, hit the pitch, and start training like an Olympian. Whether you dream of playing in the Olympics or just want to impress your friends in a pickup game, these drills will help you feel good as gold.
Where to Watch Soccer in NYC: The Top 10 Best Soccer Bars
Watch out for the next NYC Footy party popping up at a bar near you.
Did you struggle to find a proper soccer bar to watch the Euro Cup and Copa America Finals? Desperately searching for this side of the pond’s official Liverpool F.C. headquarters?
While you don’t need any one reason to seek out a bar in New York City, we know finding authentic soccer bars across town isn’t easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 10 best soccers bars in New York (along with some bonus options) so you’ll always have a trusted place to get loud when the game is on.
1. Smithfield Hall (Flatiron, Manhattan)
The first rule of being a legitimate soccer bar is to let your patrons know you know when the game is on. Smithfield Hall makes sure its football schedule is front and center on its website, and from club friendlies to the upcoming Paris Olympics, this Flatiron spot packs in the crowds no matter who’s playing. If you’re a Manchester United ultra, this is the bar you need to seek out.
2. The Football Factory at Legends Bar NYC (Midtown, Manhattan)
A three-level Irish bar in the vicinity of Koreatown, The Football Factory lives up to its namesake as a place that pumps out soccer matches with mechanical precision. The home of over 30 supporter groups in NYC, you’re just as likely to find a friendly face cheering on your team of choice as you are delicious wings and pints.
3. Carragher’s (Financial District, Manhattan)
Liverpool fans flock to this Financial District spot to support The Reds, though it also serves as the home of NYCFC for their away games too. We love their dedicated game day menu featuring traditional dishes like baked beans and Irish bacon, and its location one block away from The Fulton Center makes this an easily accessible landing spot for many.
4. Floyd NY (Brooklyn Heights/Cobble Hill, Brooklyn)
Premier League games with a round of bocce during halftime? We’re not sure who came up with that pairing but it is genius and one of the many reasons NYC Footy players love heading here. Though all are welcome, supporters of Newcastle United know this is their spot, so tread lightly if you enjoy chanting “I’m Sunderland till I die.”
5. Chuzo Culture (Park Slope, Brooklyn)
Looking to switch up your game day eats routine? This new Ecuadorian sports bar is becoming well known for its grilled meats, salchipapas and sweet plantains, which is a nice change of pace from the typical sliders and fries driven menu we’ve come to expect out of our hometown. A more intimate, family friendly setting than other locations on this list, you’ll still find plenty of energy here when a Premiere League match is being played onscreen.
6. Kent Ale House (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Ales and athletics are a tried and true formula, which makes Kent Ale House the ideal location for a post game drink, especially after an NYC Footy match at nearby Bushwick Inlet Park. As their website states, “We can show ALL soccer games,” so don’t be shy about asking to put on the match you care about the most.
7. Rivercrest (Astoria, Queens)
Where do you watch soccer when visiting the World’s Boro? Rivercrest is making the rounds as one of Astoria’s top destination to watch soccer which says a lot for a neighborhood known for its diverse bar scene. A full menu of flatbreads and shareable plates also make this an easy decision to answer the “Where to Dine With a Group” question.
8. The Soccer Tavern (Sunset Park, Brooklyn)
Sometimes you just want to watch a game in a historic dive bar adorned with memorabilia. For those moments, The Soccer Tavern is the first place that should appear on your radar. In operation since the Prohibition era, you’ll want to take into account this is still a cash-only business.
9. Bodega 88 (Upper West Side, Manhattan)
Though there’s a strong chance you’ll find a game on when walking into your local bodega, there typically isn’t a place to sit down and stay for awhile. So what’s a good (and perhaps better) alternative? Bodega 88, a revamped corner store, is now one of the Upper West Side’s hottest spots for soccer fans. You’re likely to catch everything from La Liga to MLS matches here and in true bodega fashion, you’ll find a little taste of everything on the menu here too.
10. Banter (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
With a name like Banter, you better believe soccer plays a big part in this bar’s identity. Bundesliga, Serie A, La Liga, the list goes on as to what game you might find when walking in. Regardless of your allegiances, you can expect to find an exciting line up of craft brews and sausages that have been to known to bring peace during the most heated of rivalries.
Keep Your Eyes On: McGarry’s Sports & Social (Opening Soon)
What happens when the owner of the The Dead Rabbit decides to expand his empire by opening a sports bar? Though we don’t know all the details just yet, especially the location which would be super helpful, we do know McGarry plans to pay homage to Irish sports culture. While “no red cards” is one of the slogans they’re promoting across social media, you can expect the same commitment to excellent drinks, food, and live music that has made The Dead Rabbit an award winning destination.
And Don’t Forget About: NYC Footy’s Bar Program
Though members of the NYC Footy Bar Program aren’t soccer bars in the traditional sense, they instantly become thriving hotbeds of football excitement whenever our players arrive. Below is a list of our partners where you can expect to find NYC Footy members only food and drink deals:
The Perry Club for private NYC Footy members only watch parties
Tampico for ongoing NYC Footy player only drink deals
Bondi Sushi for special NYC Footy only events
Meet The Doctors That Partner with NYC Footy
Doctor Spotlight: Dr. Teo Mendez-Zfass
NYC Footy’s principles have always been grounded in kindness and inclusivity. But today, we’re going to add one more focal point to the list – Health! Sports should be fun and bring people together, but with any high-impact activity, the risk of injury is always present. The good news is that most sports injuries will heal with rest and a good handful of ice.
To ensure our players stay at the top of their game, we’re sponsored by NY Orthopedics, which has its own team of 10 specialized physicians, led by Stephen J. Nicholas, MD.
One of their experienced, sports medicine fellowship trained physicians is Dr. Teo Mendez-Zfass, who has over 15 years of experience and has treated athletes from the New York Jets, New York Islanders, Manhattanville College, Hunter College, and more.
We were able to sit down with Dr. Mendez to discuss his career in sports medicine and some of the ways athletes can prevent common injuries.
NY Ortho & NYC Footy: A Winning Team
Hi Dr. Mendez, so word on the street is you played for NYC Footy?
I did, I did. I played probably for four or five seasons. I was on the Jock Docs. I played midfield and defense.
Did you grow up playing soccer?
I did. I played soccer, whether through school or through a rec team. You know, all through high school, college and medical school. Up until a few years ago.
What made you want to pursue medicine?
I had been interested in medicine and science from an early age. My father and both grandfathers were physicians as well as my two uncles, so conversations around health and science surrounded our dinner table. My grandfather gave me a kid’s book with really awful 1970s pictures on the human body for my 6th birthday… I couldn’t read it well then, but it impacted me.
Why did you choose to go into sports medicine?
You know, going through training I really gravitated to orthopedics because it's a direct function of the human body and a subspecialty of orthopedic sports medicine. It spoke to me because it involves working with athletes or really anybody who wants to optimize their performance. And, you know, I take a very broad view of sports medicine as helping people continue doing the things that they want to do, whether that's playing recreational pickleball or being an elite athlete.
Identifying Most Common Injuries
Of your primary specialties, in which area do you see the most injuries?
Injury patterns are really sports-specific. For example, baseball players or any throwing athlete are going to have shoulder or elbow injuries primarily. Somebody in a striking sport like jiu-jitsu can get knee injuries and sometimes elbow injuries if they're put in a certain type of hold. Soccer players might dislocate their shoulder but the most common things we see are hamstring injuries, ankle sprains, and knee injuries. So, it really just depends on the sport or activity that somebody is doing.
How does an athlete know when they should get an injury professionally checked vs rest and ice at home?
Red flags such as not being able to put weight on an extremity. That's a pretty good indicator that you should go see a professional. If the pain isn't relieved by a few minutes of RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) that should probably clue you off to seek some type of help, whether that's an urgent care center or an orthopedic specialist, depending on your access to them.
What is the key difference when determining if an injury will have to be operative vs non-operative?
It really isn’t one key difference. The art of sports medicine and surgery is selecting the right treatment for the right patients. Many times, that can be nonsurgical, but if symptoms persist despite nonsurgical management, surgery may be necessary. That being said, there are some things in this field that we tend to be more aggressive about treating surgically.
What are the 3 most common injuries you see related to soccer?
The three we see most are ACL or meniscus tears around the knee, ankle sprains probably being the most common, and then Achilles and hamstring injuries.
Prevention is Key
What are some things athletes can do to reduce their risk of injury?
A healthy diet and maintaining flexibility. Also, injury prevention workouts, which really work to target any strength imbalances.
Is there anything athletes can do to support and protect their body against some of the more common soccer injuries?
Absolutely. We'll start with a hamstring. So, there are certain exercises you can do. Things like eccentric exercises which are active lengthening exercises. Stability and proper reception work on the ankle can help prevent sprains. And again, eccentrics, which involves controlled lowering of yourself for the Achilles to help prevent strains or ruptures. Finally, there are protocols that have been developed to help people prevent ACL injuries. There's some controversy on how well they work, but I think there is some data demonstrating the efficacy in certain sorts of muscle-balancing protocols.
Have there been any breakthroughs recently related to recovery for ACL, ankle, and hamstring injuries?
Yeah, absolutely. So, you know with ACL reconstruction, I think the biggest thing over the past maybe 10 years is the type of graft that we use. There have been enhancements that have demonstrated real benefits to people, like using a quadriceps graft over hamstrings. So, there are two different types of tissue we take from a patient's body to reconstruct their ACL and there's been sort of an explosion using the quadriceps which is a very good graft for a lot of people especially the 20- to 30-year-old weekend warrior soccer player or skier.
There are also some different techniques we use in terms of fixating the graft. These are a little technical, but we can augment a graft with a strong suture, and there's some evidence that may lower re-rupture rates. It hasn't really caught on across the board, but the use of ortho biologics, which are basically taking cells and cell signaling molecules and hormones from a patient and injecting them to get them to help accelerate healing. It’s exciting and it's going to be an area of rapid development and growth in the next 10 years.
And then, you know, like we talked about rehab. Physical therapists have demonstrated a lot of protocols, especially for hamstring injuries, that can really help prevent recurrent injuries. Things like Nordic curls and Lankan state eccentric exercises can really reduce the risk of recurrence in injuries to the hamstring.
So, any final words you’d like to share?
I think Tarek Pertew has done a great job with NYC Footy. It's really expanded, and I think it's a great opportunity for people just to be active and play. Play is so important for life and happiness. Instead of just going to an exercise class or going to the gym, soccer is a really nice thing that people can do to stay healthy and active.
8 New Parks You Can Now Play Soccer At This Summer with NYC Footy
Upper West Side’s Riverside Park, a new pitch for summer 2024
Summer can get lonely when you're an NYC Park without NYC Footy players running about.
That's why we've made the decision to let some new friends in on the action and opened up those top secret locations you kept asking us about but never thought we heard you.
We did.
Our selection of first time pitches and new league formats is captured in our list below along with a few of our favorite off-the-pitch destinations you now have a great reason to head to after the game.
Need a quick rundown of all the new parks and leagues NYC Footy is playing at this summer? These are leagues that are making their long awaited debut and are currently accepting new free agents and teams
We probably couldn't be more excited to finally find our way to Riverside Park, arguably the most requested area of soccer fields we regularly receive. Sign ups here are already quite promising considering the lack of history.
Friday
Riverside Park (UWS) I 7x7 Coed I P3, P4 FLIP I 6pm-8pm
Sunday
Riverside Park (UWS) I 7x7 Coed I P2, P3 I 4pm-6pm
In addition to this statement "W" on the west side, we have a lineup of never before leagues on the east side. Take a peek.
Sunday
East River Park (LES) I 9x9 Coed I P2 I 1pm-4pm
Peter's Field (Gramercy Park) I 7x7 Coed I P2 & P3 I 4pm-8pm
Thomas Jefferson (UES/Harlem) I 7x7 Coed I P3/P4 I 2pm-4:30 pm
Wagner Playground (Harlem) I 7x7 Coed I P4 I 5pm-7:30pm
Thomas Jefferson Park in East Harlem is another new uptown addition for summer
This summer, we have had to dig long and hard to find opportunities that didn't before exist in the Footy lineup.
Perhaps the most opportunistic is a Brooklyn Heights option at Van Voorhees that finally gets our beginner league back in BK Heights with our Sunday evening P5 beginner league.
But if you don't fancy that, and you prefer a chill Saturday afternoon at one of BK's highest points (Sunset Park), then jump into our P3 and P4 options.
Sunday
Van Voorhees (Brooklyn Heights) I 7x7 Coed I P5 I 6pm-8pm
Saturday
Sunset Park I 7x7 Coed I P3 & P4 I 2pm-6pm
We finally have a Saturday option in Queens at LIC's Murray Playground. Sure the turf could use some new infill, but you can't beat the location. Come join us for a bit of Saturday afternoon footy and head on out to the local post-game scene with friends and frenemies alike.
Saturdays
Murray Playground (LIC) I 7x7 Coed I P3/4 I 4pm-6pm
Santiago’s Beer Garden, an excellent spot for post game drinks.
The Post Game Plan
New pitches means new excuses to visit new neighborhoods which means the chance to finally get to that bar, restaurant, and iconic NYC landmarks you've always wanted to visit. Since our new summer pitches are scattered across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, we've selected a few of our favorites near some of our new pitches but we're excited to find out what places you plan on discovering nearby.
Food
Absolute Bagels (Riverside Park)
Gupshup (Peter's Field)
The King of Fish (Sunset Park)
L'Appartment 4F (Van Voorhees)
Drinks
Contento (Thomas Jefferson)
Pete's Tavern (Peter's Field)
The Commodore (East River Park)
Santiago's Beer Garden (Wagner Playground)
The Only Guide You Need to Explore Uptown Manhattan’s Soccer Scene
There's a gentle song on the Hamilton soundtrack called It's Quiet Uptown which might lead you to think our nation's first Secretary of the Treasury was pretty bored living up here.
The reality is Alexander needed a change of pace because dueling is incredibly hard on families, found a great deal on a house that was so well built it's still standing today, and was the first to utter the phrase "Uptown is fun as f*ck" in a rap battle.
Okay, so while our recollection of history needs to be fact checked, today's reality is uptown Manhattan is an absolute destination for those in the know. That's why from the pitch to authentic spots without the kitsch, we're outlining our favorite fields, foods, and finds for those of you ready to explore what uptown Manhattan offers.
Pictured: Riverbank State Park’s soccer field.
Need a quick rundown of all the uptown parks you'll find NYC Footy at this summer? These are the leagues that are currently open for registration:
Monday
Marx Brothers (UES) | 8v8 Coed | P3 | 6pm-Sunset
Tuesday
Frederick Douglass Field (UWS) | 7v7 Coed | P3 & P4 | 6pm-Sunset
Wednesday
Frederick Douglass Field (UWS) | 7v7 Coed | P3 & P4 | 6pm-Sunset
Eugene McCabe (Harlem) | 7v7 Coed | P4 | 6pm-8pm
Harlem River Park (Harlem) | 9v9 Coed | P2 | 7pm-10pm
Harlem River Park (Harlem) | 7v7 Coed | P3 | 7pm-10pm
Riverbank State Park | 7v7 Coed | P3, P4 | 8:30pm-10pm
Thursday
Eugene McCabe (Harlem) | 7v7 Coed | P3 | 7pm-8pm
Friday
Riverside Park (UWS) | 7v7 Coed | P3 & P4 50/50 | 6pm-sunset
Saturday
Harlem River Park (Harlem) | 7v7 Coed | P3 | 10a-1p Brunch ⏰
Sunday
Booker T Washington (UWS) | 7v7 Coed | P3 | 5p-Sunset
Frederick Douglass Field (UWS) | 7v7 Coed | P2 & P5
Harlem River Park (E. Harlem) | 9v9 Coed** | P3 | 7p-10p
Marx Brothers (UES) | 8v8 Coed | P4 | 10a-12p
Marx Brothers (UES) | 8v8 Coed | P3 | 6p-Sunset
Riverside Park at 101st Street (UWS) I P2 & P3 I 4pm-6pm
Thomas Jefferson (UES) | 7v7 Coed | P3/4* | 2pm-4:30pm
Wagner Playground (UES/Harlem) | 7v7 Coed | P4 | 5pm-7:30pm
The Post Game Plan
This might blow your mind, but uptown has some incredibly amazing food and drink options just like downtown and Brooklyn. You just need to know where to look, but since you're going to be tired after that hard earned W, we've done the work for you to highlight our favorite points of interest:
Food
A Really Great Dinner: Dinosaur BBQ, Oso, Pisticci, Banh
Pizza: Mama Too's, Pizzy by Lucilles
Ice Cream: Sugar Hill Creamery
Drinks
Cocktails w/ Pool Table: Bird in Hand
Drinks with a view: The Baylander
Just drinks: At the Wallace, Merrion Square Pub
6 Reasons Your Employer Should Invest in Soccer as a Employee Health Benefit
Now that it's officially summer, beach brain kicks in when it comes time for making big decisions. That's why we're dedicating today's issue to providing you the answers to our most frequently asked summer season questions:
Q: Are white or seersucker cleats cool?
A: Footy's fashion police want you to know cleats that lean all in on that classic summer feel are IN this season, but only until Labor Day.
Q: Which pitch gives me the best chance at a proper tan?
A: That would be East River Park's East 6th Street Field. There's plenty of open space to spread out a blanket or lawn chair and the thread of lost tourists bothering you with direction help is minimal to nonexistent.
Q: I'm in charge of impressing all the summer interns. Can you help?
A: Yes. Our corporate leagues and the community it helps build are ideal for summer internship team activities. Connect with us to discover which skill level (P1-P5) is ideal for your squad by completing our corporate league contact form here.
Q: Wait...does that mean my company can pay for my Footy summer staycation?
A: Yes. Yes it does. We've outlined our suggested approach to pitching NYC Footy to your company's Lord of Perks or whoever on the HR team is in charge of benefits in the section below. A little intro can go a long way, so if you believe you, your teammates, and your company would benefit by joining one of our corporate leagues, get in touch with us ASAP by heading over to our For Companies page and dropping us a line.
The Corporate League Pitch List
Pictured: Gansevoort Peninsula, the only Meatpacking District party without pretension
Manhattan
Mondays I 7x7 Coed I Gansevoort Peninsula I P5 I 7pm-8:30pm
Who says the Meatpacking District's best parties only happen on the weekend? Gansevoort Peninsula is host to our Monday P5 beginner corporate league this summer, which means you'll be playing games in one of the city's most photogenic pitches. Steps away from the Whitney Museum of Art, Little Island, and the West Village, it's an ideal spot for high energy team meetings where dialing in means
Tuesdays | West Village (Pier 40 Rooftop) | 6v6 Coed I | P4 I 8:30pm-11pm
Downtown soccer on a rooftop set across the backdrop of the NYC night sky? If you're company claims it's "cutting edge" then this is the rebel move your HR team should be making. Bonus: playing late in a company league gives you a free pass for missing those inconvenient cross time zone calls that have been ruining your social life.
Wednesdays | Midtown West (DeWitt Clinton) | 7v7 Coed (Company Teams) | P3 I 6pm-8pm
Work in midtown and need a reprieve before heading home? Make the trip to this prime west side park for weekly evening games. As you watch traffic creep up the west side highway, you'll be thankful you chose to burn off steam by joining a league that takes place during prime commuting hours.
Wednesdays | Tribeca (Battery Park Field) | 6v6 Coed (Company Teams) | P3
A pitch with plenty of escape the island vibes because...well it's Battery Park City an, this on the water oasis with a wonderful view is great for those who appreciate that off the beaten path destination to end their day.
Thursdays | West Village (Pier 40 Courtyard) | 7v7 Coed (Company Teams) | P2/P3 I 6pm-9pm
Like Pier 40 Rooftop but without the fear of heights, playing in the Pier 40 Courtyard means you're part of the fabric of downtown NYC nightlife. Since your last game will end by 9pm, you'll avoid prime dining time and will take comfort in the fact you and your coworkers CAN get a late night table at one of the many West Village or Chelsea restaurants that are designed for post game strategy sessions.
Why Your Employer Will Approve Of This Message
Playing in a co-ed league is a fantastic way to boost teamwork and collaboration in all aspects of your life. Whether you win or lose, the morale you'll build with your fellow players - who just so happen to coworkers - cannot be understated. But since you might have to get "buy in" across the board because "budgets are tight," well here's the rundown of why NYC Footy's corporate leagues can act as the company holiday party that brings joy week in and week out.
Morale Boost:
Regular participation in sports can lead to higher employee satisfaction and morale because it provides a fun and engaging way for employees to bond outside of the office.
Health and Wellness:
Physical Activity: Encouraging employees to engage in regular physical activity through soccer helps promote a healthier lifestyle, which can lead to fewer sick days and reduced healthcare costs.
Mental Health Benefits: Physical exercise is known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, contributing to better overall mental health for employees.
Networking Opportunities:
Inter-Company Networking: Playing in a corporate league allows employees to interact and network with peers from other companies, potentially opening up new business opportunities and partnerships.
Community Engagement: Participation in NYC Footy can enhance a company's presence and reputation within the community.
Talent Attraction and Retention:
Attractive Perk: Offering participation in a corporate sports league as a benefit can make a company more attractive to potential hires, especially those who value work-life balance and recreational activities.
Employee Retention: Employees are more likely to stay with a company that promotes a healthy work-life balance and invests in their well-being
Skill Development:
Leadership and Strategic Thinking: Sports can help employees develop key skills such as leadership, strategic thinking, and quick decision-making
Discipline and Perseverance: Regular training and competition instill a sense of discipline and perseverance in employees
Company Branding and Visibility:
Brand Exposure: Participation in NYC Footy can increase brand visibility and enhance the company's image as one that values employee wellness and community involvement.
Positive PR: Being associated with co-ed recreational soccer can generate positive public relations for the company.
The Bottom Line
Whether your office culture revolves around in-office, hybrid, or remote work, joining NYC Footy means you'll be able to have one in person meeting each week focused on the sheer joy of getting to know your co-workers. In a world where so many benefits have just become a standard part of the package, isn't it worth asking about one unique opportunity that can set your employer apart from the pack?
Here’s Why Red Hook Field 8 is The Sleeper Pitch of the Summer
This summer, make Red Hook your preferred neighborhood setting for soccer supremacy
If you were one of the lucky few to play at the brand new Red Hook Field 8 this spring, you’ll be happy to know we’re running it back right here for the 2024 summer season. We'll be playing here on Sundays in the following league:
2024 Summer | Sundays | Red Hook (Red Hook Soccer Fields) | 7v7 Coed | P3/P4
There's been a massive reconstruction effort across all of Red Hook Park's recreational areas, and Field 8 is the first of what could be NYC’s newest soccer stronghold.
But let me just say first off what everyone is thinking: Red Hook is one those neighborhoods that isn't easy to get to so why would I want to play here? Yes, I'm old enough to remember watching The Real World Brooklyn where the roommate that drew the shortest straw would drive to and from the subway station whenever someone needed to go somewhere. Red Hook in 2009 clearly had great deals if you were looking to rent a warehouse for filming but not much else.
While I wouldn't say the Red Hook of 2024 is incredibly convenient to get to because there is still no dedicated subway stop centrally located in the neighborhood, what I will say is this: it isn't that difficult either. You may even find like I do that it's even more enjoyable when you plan to make a day out of it. If you're open to that idea, here's a game plan you can head out with.
Transportation to Red Hook Park Field 8
By Water
The absolute move to make if you're coming from Manhattan is to take advantage of the free Ikea ferry that runs on the weekends to get to Red Hook (reminder: avoid falling into the trap that is Ikea's floor plan unless you need to pick up a chair named Gunde or Nisse to sit on at halftime). You'll have to find a different way back since your game could end after the last ferry leaves. The NYC ferry is another option but you'll be faced with the same issue of it potentially working one way for you.
By Ground
The B57 and B61 include Red Hook on their routes and will likely be the most convenient mode of public transportation for you, especially since Ikea discontinued their free shuttle bus service.
By Underground
The Smith-9th Street Subway stop is the closest subway stop to Red Hook so you may want to transfer to either the B57 or B61 for the last leg of the trip, or you can use the 17 minute walk to the park from the station as a warm up.
Pre-Game Meals and Points of Interest
If you like exploring a neighborhood through food and drink, you're in luck. Since games here don't kick off until 6 pm, this means you'll be able to have brunch, snacks, maybe a beverage of choice, and possibly an entire key lime pie all before game time. These are the best places in Red Hook you should make it a point to visit with your teammates.
Brunch: If you want a relaxing, Red Hook authentic spot without reservation hassles, head straight to The Good Fork Pub. Dine on chilaquiles or The Good
Fork smashburger in the outdoor patio and split an order of chips & dip made with fried wontons and honey cream cheese with the team. There's also Red Hook Tavern which you should make a reservation for well in advance and Hometown BBQ which always has a line but damn that lamb bahn mi hits every single time.
Beer: Strong Rope Brewery has the waterfront views of Lady Liberty and will likely be your first choice, but Keg & Lantern and Other Half are ideal spots if you're all about the beer.
Victory Dessert: Sharing is caring in victory and defeat, but doing so with Steve's Key Lime Pie makes either one guaranteed to be tasty as well as provide a much needed sugar injection.
Team Bonding: Walking around Red Hook feels like you've stumbled back in time to when cobblestone streets and surly longshoremen staggering about were the norm. The neighborhood now is a mix of artistic endeavors and industrial relics made new again. You'll find hand painted signs, people taking photos inside an abandoned street car, a museum on a barge, and most importantly, that Old New York, untainted by corporate chain vibe that has now destroyed Williamsburg and is creeping in on Chinatown. But if walking around with your teammates isn't enough to get inspired, there's something equally as wonderful you can do with your team.
Red Hook is a neighborhood full of makers like Raaka Chocolate, which offers bean to bar chocolate making classes on Sundays. There's also a retail shop if you just want to get right to the eating part. Whichever you choose, that chocolate is going to give you plenty of caffeine to get you through the match. Food for thought if you're a Captain in search of a new activity that doesn't involve post-game drinks (though if that's what your people want, then those should be at either Sunny's or Seaborne)
Final Minutes + Stoppage Time Thoughts
Dedicating a weekend day to footy play doesn't have to be a hard choice when you've got a brand new field in a fun and admittedly odd neighborhood designed for exploration. When we think about the pitches we prefer to play on, it's easy to get caught up in the same routine and lose sight of the fact there's so much of the city we forget to see. It's easy to be on the same team, on the same pitch, and at the same level every year. But once things stop being new for us, can we even consider ourselves New Yorkers anymore?
NYC Footy's Spring Survival Guide: The One Stop Shop for Winning On & Off The Field
The arrival of spring brings with it planet Earth’s annual reminder that growth - both on and off the field - cannot be stopped. So whether you used this past winter to play in NYC Footy’s Indoor Leagues, enhanced your touch technique with BetterPlayer, or spent time taking care of nagging injuries, the launch of NYC Footy’s spring season on March 17th is your chance to celebrate the arrival of the new you.
But much like jumping into an empty subway car at rush hour only to realize after the doors close you’ve made a horrible choice, you need to see the full picture of what you’re dealing with ahead of time before making a fateful mistake that ruins the entire ride. So whether you're a seasoned footballer or a newcomer to the NYC Footy community, we know providing support in all forms goes a long way in making sure your season doesn’t stink.
That’s why we’ve put together our very own spring survival guide below to help you navigate everything our community has to offer. From choosing a league and field that’s right for you to the type of experiences we want all players to walk away with pre and post game, our spring survival guide is designed to help you focus on one thing: the joy of playing the beautiful game. Let’s get into it, shall we?
Surviving & Thriving NYC Footy’s Spring Season
Our VIBE: Creative, Competitive, And Completely Original
NYC Footy is more than just a recreational co-ed soccer league—it's a community of passionate players dedicated to promoting the joy of the game. Founded with the mission of making soccer accessible to everyone, NYC Footy offers a variety of options for players who want to achieve different results when playing recreational soccer.
The principles that guide us are grounded in kindness and inclusivity. We call it in respectfully when someone crosses the line and prioritize our community values above all else. We have captured these core beliefs in our official Ted Lasso Code of Conduct, which we ask all players to review and abide by when participating in any Footy organized activity.
Note: our code of conduct also works great for real life Non-Footy situations too!)
Riverbank State Park in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood of Manhattan is one of the many fields we offer here at NYC Footy
Our Fields: Find A Pitch That Matches Your Personality
NYC Footy organizes indoor and outdoor games in public and private parks located across New York City. We have captured these locations using an interactive map as well as individual location pages categorized by neighborhood. If you’re more of a list type of person, we’ve captured all of current spring league locations below, most of which you can still register for as of today:
League Formats: Finding the Best Fit
Ready to step on the pitch, but not sure which level is right for you? Here’s our roster of league formats which can help you find the best situation and have way too much fun whether you win or lose.
Flip: Footy exists to crush traditional soccer constraints, and our Flip league is the place to be if you’re looking to be part of a team where the majority of players identify as female.
P1: Advanced. Former professional, NCAA player, or just love endless cardio? This is likely your best option to continue reliving your glory days of competition as its our most advanced level.
P2: Intermediate/Advanced. Select P2 if your love language is challenging yourself on the field of play. Choose this level if you’re looking for competitive play and enjoy being surrounded by a mix of players who are at or above your skill level.
P3: Intermediate Leagues. Former high school star that hasn’t played in awhile but are ready to strap up the old shin guards and find out where you’re at right now? P3 is the perfect middle of the road option.
P4: Intermediate/Beginner: Select P4 if you love learning and want to enhance your solid dribbling and passing techniques by leveling up.
P5: Beginner. If you know you’re in love with soccer but not exactly familiar with its rules of engagement, this is the best way to get indoctrinated. Ideal for beginners, you are joining for the joy of getting to know the NYC soccer community
Spring Tournament: The Governors Cup
Our flagship spring tournament is The Governors Cup which takes place on Governors Island June 1 - June 2 this year. It’s so popular that it already sold out prior to our team publishing this guide, but we’ve got a waitlist going which you should absolutely sign up for as previously registered teams have been known to drop out beforehand.
Reminders for First Time (And returning) Players
To make the most of your NYC Footy experience this spring, here’s a quick r
Stay Active: Keep an eye on NYC Footy's website and social media channels for updates on upcoming games, leagues, and events.
Pack the Essentials: Bring water, sunscreen, your Footy jersey, and the right footwear as each location
Respect the Game: Embrace the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship both on and off the field. Treat your fellow players, referees, and opponents with respect and courtesy at all times.
Have Fun: Above all, remember that soccer is a game meant to be enjoyed. Whether you win, lose, or draw, cherish the opportunity to play the sport you love with like-minded individuals.
Dress the part: Did you know Footy offers custom kits for teams now? Email [email protected]
Getting Started
Ready to kick off your spring season with NYC Footy? Visit the NYC Footy website to join a current league or sign up for invites to upcoming events (Premier League matches anyone?) . Want to see Footy players in action? Follow NYC Footy for exclusive video and photo content, merch drops, and more!
NYC Footy's Top 10 Team Names of 2023!
There’s something really important in a team name and we appreciate when a name has that magic touch. It brings you together. It makes you laugh. Inspires us. Strikes fear into your opponents.
Or it simply lets them know you’re really just here to have fun and grab some drinks after the game.
So we want to bring in 2024 right with a little dose of fun so we’re sharing our TOP 10 team names of 2023!
If you see your team name on the list, don’t forget to give us a shout out on Instagram and we’ll give you a shout back!
And if you don’t and feel like you got snubbed, let us know why!
The List
#10 FC Koala Tea
We love a good pun at NYC Footy, and so we’re kicking off this list with a “quality” effort. The only thing preventing it from placing higher was our dislike of actual tea (that’s not true).
#9 Haaland Back Girls (Honorable Mention: Haaland Oats)
A good Haaland pun is always welcome here and it’s a standout in a category (player puns) with a lot of strong contenders. They did lose a few points for Haaland being injured.
#8 Run Like The Winded
We love this name and just want you to know that we see you and feel the same way.
#7 ABCDE FC (Honorable Mention: KFC)
Unpretentious, funny, simple. A true classic.
#6 Are Ya Winnin Son?
Brilliant. The only reason it wasn’t placed higher is it may be lost on those who don’t spend their days living on Reddit.
#5 Wambach To The Future
Exceptional pun and our highest ranked player pun team. Way to go!
#4 Hot Sauce White Sauce FC
If you don’t know you’ve never been to a Halal truck and we simply can’t help you.
#3 The Other Secret Team (Honorable Mention: The Other Other Secret Team)
We love a good running joke. Especially since we can’t find hide nor tail of any Secret Team… well played.
#2 Exceptional Women, Average Men
Year over year probably the best co-ed rec league name (for any sport really) you’re likely to find.
#1 Shinguardian LeviosA (Honorable Mention: Shinguardians of the Galaxy)
Rules. Puns. Harry Potter. What’s not to like about this name. So congratulations to the captain of this team for taking home Footy’s 2023 team name championship! Not me. Not Hermoine. You!
Hopefully this spurs a little creativity and inspiration from everyone to try and find the best team name of 2024!
Winter's Secret Weapon: Futsal and its Knack for Creating Better Players.
Winter footy offers something unique.
One primary reason for this is quite simple: indoor hardcourt footy, AKA futsal.
Futsal is the most action packed and dynamic game of soccer imaginable and there are some marked advantages to playing.
For beginners, it means becoming a much more comfortable and confident soccer player. For experienced players, it strengthens your touch, your movement and your communication.
The game is tighter so you need to pass the ball quickly and move off-the-ball constantly. This translates to way more touches and way more movement. Everyone is closer together, including the person defending you, so two touches (trap the ball, then pass the ball) becomes less of a suggestion and more of a necessary habit.
The added bonus? It's the best workout in soccer you can get. And right smack in holiday weight-gain season, amirite?
We guarantee, regardless of your level, if you join an indoor hardcourt league, you'll enter spring as a better individual player and, your team will move up in the rankings.
Without further ado, check our Footy’s Hard courts.
Footy's Hard Courts: Manhattan, Downtown
University Settlement - Bowery
Located in Manhattan’s East Vilalge/LES Neighborhood. This beautiful court can accommodate one large format game our two smaller format games.
Avenue of the World School - Chelsea
Avenue of the World School’s gym is as beautiful as it looks in the photos. Located conveniently in the Chelsea district of Manhattan’s West Side, this gym is perfect for traditional futsal.
The Aula - Lower East Side
Located as part of St. Patrick’s, this historical gym is perhaps the most convenient location for a little post-footy brunch on weekends or after Footy drinks on weeknights,.
Nord Anglia International School - Lower East Side
New in the Footy ranks is this small, fast-paced gym on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
Leman Preparatory School - Tribeca
Perhaps ranking as the most perfect gym for futsal, Leman’s gym is the most convenient Manhattan gym location in the Footy Portfolio. Nestled along most major train lines in Tribeca.
Footy's Hard Courts: Manhattan, Uptown
John Jay College - Midtown West
John Jay gym opened it’s doors to Footy Players in the 2023 winter season, and quickly became a fan favorite. Located near Columbus Circle, it’s accessible by train or bus and perfect for folks living on the west side of Manhattan.
Brearley School - Upper East Side
When we first laid our eyes on this gym, we couldn’t believe how enormous and beautiful it is. The size of this gym allows 4 full NYC Footy teams to take the court at the same time, increasing those footy vibes and inviting larger amounts of players to enjoy on the court and off the court festivities in Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Julia Richman Educational Complex - Upper East Side
Home to many a Manhattan indoor soccer player over the years, Julia Richman’s gym is also conveniently located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and is the perfect size for a 5-a-side game of futsal.
The Town - Upper East Side
Joining NYC Footy’s Upper East Side portfolio of gyms is the The Town, home to one of our more intimate futsal formats: fast futsal.
Stephen Gaynor School - Upper West Side
Upper West Side gyms can be few an far between. But we got lucky with Stephen Gaynor’s colorful court, nestled high on the upper West Side on west 90th street. This is also home to an indoor turf field, which you can find here.
Footy's Hard Courts: Brooklyn
The Post - Bushwick
An expansion of the wildly successful Post in Williamsburg, this new location in Bushwick gives Footy players an opportunity to play indoor futsal any day of the week.
The Post - Williamsburg
NYC Footy’s Williamsburg Futsal HQ, The Post is littered with full size basketball courts, often taken completely over by futsal. You can find us playing here on weeknights and the weekend.
That’s all for now. Check back regularly to see if we’ve added new, wonderful indoor courts to the NYC Footy portfolio.
Cheers!
Our 7th Captain of the Match, Yesenia Magana
Yesenia was born and raised in Westchester to two soccer loving parents who immigrated from Mexico.
Her father coached soccer, and instilled a lifelong love of the sport to Yesenia and her five sisters.
Playing in NYC Footy has reignited Yesenia’s love of soccer.
Yesenia started playing with NYC Footy pre-pandemic, and while she had to move out of the city to Westchester, she continued to play with Footy, commuting into the city every week for games.
In doing so, Yesenia helped create some much needed direction and consistency for many players who had to move out of the city during the pandemic.
Yesenia cares deeply for her family, and her work. She uses soccer as something that is just for her, creating a boundary and a healthy space where Yesenia can just be herself.
We’re so proud of Captain Yesenia, and we’re happy she’s with us today, playing all over the city, at Gov Cup, and at Footy Fest!
Oh, and did we mention she met her partner playing Footy too! 😍
Our 8th Captain of the Match, Dhalia Eld
When she’s not playing in NYCFooty or practicing with BetterPlayer, Dahlia is an ER doctor, saving lives, and she extends that care to everyone she meets.
Her unbounded kindness, positive energy, and caring nature make Dhalia a fixture wherever she plays and NYC is a better place.
By far our most requested captain and an outrageously good soul.
Dhalia is captain of Sunset Park the Bus.
Between saving lives as an ER doctor, offering rides home to her teammates, and bringing snacks and drinks to everyone on the pitch (including the refs), Dhalia might actually be a living angel.
It’s impossible to express the gratitude we feel towards her and how lucky we are to have her as a member of the community, and our city.
Dhalia’s enthusiasm is unparalleled and her legend grows with each game and bag of orange slices she brings to the field. We should all be lucky enough to play with, or again, Captain Dhalia.
Our 9th Captain of the Match, Dygo Josefzoon!
Congatulations to our 9th NYCFC Captain of the Match, Dygo Josefzoon!
Dygo came to NYC from the Netherlands to pursue a career in soccer, finding his natural fit as a coach all across the city
He is a full-time youth coach for kids of ages 4-7 with Born Kickers and is a part-time coach with BetterPlayer.
If you want to find practices with Coach Dygo, you can do so right here.
He is hands down one of the kindest people you're likely to meet anywhere in NYC, on or off the soccer field. His calm, welcoming demeanor make him a perfect coach and player for youth and adults alike.
Don't let that kindness fool you though, Dygo is an accomplished player and a seasoned coach.
Outside of soccer, Dygo is passionate about his music as a singer and connects with people as easily as we've ever seen, making him a natural coach, community builder, and just a great person all around.
Side note, if you don't think those are two of the cutest photos you've seen in a Footy newsletter thus far, I'm not sure we can be friends.
Thank you Coach Dygo!a
Our 10th Captain of the Match, Mante Osei
We're proud to have Mante Osei as today's captain of the match.
Mante brings a spirit of inclusion, joy, and family everywhere he goes, particularly to the teams he captains.
You can find him playing at Pier 5 with NYC Footy each week alongside his beautiful wife Zimanta.
Immigrating from Ghana, Mante brought his passion for the game with him and has been playing every weekend for the last 11 years.
Mante has instilled that same passion for soccer, as well as anime, with his daughter Faith, who is already a lifelong Chelsea fan like her father.
A financial advisor who has built a life for himself here in New York City, Mante reminds us all how deeply sustaining and fruitful a life filled with soccer can be.
From all of those who have played with him over the past 11 years, to his family Zimanta and Faith, and us at NYC Footy, we all thank you Captain Mante!
Our 6th Captain of the Match, Patrick Kargol!
Patrick's passion for bringing people together and saving penalty kicks is matched only by his passion for motorcycles, which he inherited from his father.
HR professional, biker, goalkeeper, team captain; Patrick reminds us that everyone we meet on the field contains multitudes.
Don't be fooled by the rough, biker persona. Patrick is kind, organized, thoughtful, supportive, funny, and goes out of his way to organize carpools for his teammates.
Not to mention he's also a die hard Lord of the Rings fan, which means the most on any list of superlatives.
As captain of the Talking Headers, Patrick is one of NYC Footy's most beloved captains, even being one of it's newest.
Quick to lend a hand in support of his teammates and the community at large, Patrick is one of the special few who helps bring and hold people together effortlessly.
He's the best friend and captain we can hope for.
Thank you Captain Patrick!
Our 11th Captain of the Match, Sebastian Tuinder
Sebastian fell in love with soccer at an early age growing up in South Africa, a love he carries with him proudly today.
A documentary filmmaker and adjunct professor at Columbia University and Brooklyn College, Sebastian’s heart belongs to the outdoors and to his pups.
Captain of The Rough Cuts, Sebastian is easily recognizable by his beaming smile and his unerring positivity on and off the pitch and can be seen week in and week out seen doling out coaching tips, encouragement, and congratulations to teammates and opponents alike.
Sebastian goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels included, regardless of their race, gender, orientation, beliefs, nationality, background, or skill level, and that they are made to feel like they're part of the team.
Off the field, Sebastian has dedicated himself to the service of others. Through his professions as a journalist and professor he seeks to inform, to teach, and to inspire those around him.
Traits we're glad he carries with him on the field.
He encourages his students and teammates in the same way, to go above and beyond for others, to report, play, and live with integrity, and to always have a bright attitude, no matter what.
Thank you Captain Sebastian!