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Spring is in full bloom, and with warmer weather and sunny days on the horizon, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than getting outside and connecting with locals while engaging in a little friendly competition with some of the neighborhood’s sports leagues.
Astoria and Long Island City have plenty of places to get into the game, from the fields of Astoria Park to an LIC rooftop field. Whether you’re trying to get back into the swing of things with your favorite sport or you’re looking for a fun new hobby, here are some local sports leagues to try throughout western Queens.
Photo credit: Astoria Sports
Astoria Sports
Instagram: @astoria_sports
Astoria Sports is a co-ed adult sports league that offers a range of leagues and activities throughout Astoria and Long Island City, including soccer, cornhole, darts, softball, and kickball. The league provides an incredible opportunity for locals to meet each other and connect while enjoying a fun game followed by a post-game meet-up at a local bar or restaurant for a beer and great food. If the warmer weather has you feeling inspired to get outdoors and connect with others, the locally based group is a great way to make it happen.
Photo credit: NYC Footy
NYC Footy
nycfooty.com
Instagram: @nycfootyofficial
NYC Footy is a Brooklyn-based organization, but the league offers a wide range of soccer games throughout the city, including Astoria and Long Island City. Those looking to get on the field can sign up to play at Astoria Park, Gantry Park in LIC, and the rooftop field at Soccer Post Soccer Center in Astoria during the spring and summer. The co-ed league has options for all skill levels, from beginner to former pros, along with two annual tournaments and a charity tournament.
Photo credit: Socceroof
Socceroof LIC
36-39 35th St., LIC
Instagram: @socceroof
Socceroof is an indoor facility in LIC that organizes its own soccer leagues and pickup games for those who just want to play a lively game once in a while with fellow sports fans. The brand has venues throughout the city, with the LIC location as its sole Queens spot for neighbors to connect and enjoy a fun game. Afterward, the facility has a lounge to relax and unwind, with beer and bites from pizza to hot dogs and churros for a post-game treat.
Photo credit: Gotham Pickleball
Gotham Pickleball
5-25 46th Ave., LIC
Instagram: @gotham.pickleball
Gotham Pickleball is an indoor pickleball facility with 4 pro cushion courts, clinics, tournaments, leagues, and more. The facility offers plenty of opportunities for pickleball enthusiasts to enjoy a range of events, whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned vet. Check out their leagues and tournaments for players to challenge themselves in a competitive environment while having fun and socializing with others.
Photo credit: Astoria Runners
Astoria Running Club
Instagram: @astoria_runners
While running might not necessarily be considered a sport, it’s a great way to challenge yourself while taking care of your body and mind, and running clubs let runners connect, run together, and meet up afterward for drinks and a bite. The Astoria Running Club is open to all levels, and with longer days, the neighborhood provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend or weeknight run with the group.
Photo credit: Rivercrest
Astoria Darts League
Instagram: @astoria_darts
If you’re looking for a fun and competitive game with drinks nearby, the Astoria Darts League meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m., with a range of local Astoria bars’ teams’ playing against each other for the ultimate bragging rights. Whether you want to join a league or sit back and watch the fun, the games are a great way to start the week in good company while enjoying a great game.