You used to be hell on the field/court. You'll tell anyone that'll listen about the time you scored 30, or how your sacrifice fly won the state championship. You remember the days when teams in your intramural league would quake at the mere mention of your name. Whether you were the team captain, or a valuable part of the team, or at the very least a capable waterboy for said team—sports were a part of your life.
Alas, these days your time is taken up with other pursuits. Shoulder pads have been exchanged for a shoulder bag. Instead of being master of the crossover dribble, you're a servant to the cross-town commute.
It doesn't have to be this way. Reclaim your glory.
There are a number of urban sports leagues throughout NYC. Some are particular to a certain sport, others offer a whole range of them. They are generally targeted towards urban professionals, and a majority are co-ed—meaning you may even find an attractive (if sweaty) date here. Most, if not all, offer a way for solo players to create their own team. Plus, bonded together by competitive fire, a lot of teams go out after the game to grab a few beers. It can be a lot of fun. So, if you're looking to start playing ball again, there are no more excuses. Log on, sign up, and bring your A-game.
VolleyballNY Urban ProfessionalsUrban Professionals is a behemoth of NYC sports leagues--over 2,400 teams were fielded last year. With around 18 divisions for each of its four seasons, there's a good chance your particular level of bump-set-spike prowess will fit in somewhere. They also run Friday night open gyms (for the more spontaneous 'baller) and an equally exhaustive and substantial basketball league.
Big City VolleyballA worthy competitor to Urban Professionals, Big City offers divisions for every level up to the very competitive. The league features good referees and decent Upper East and Upper West Side facilities. Be warned though: the league owner is hands-on and is about as by-the-book as you can get, so you'd best learn the rules.
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