As kids, many of us laced up our cleats, hit the field, and discovered the joy of soccer. For some, that love of the game faded as they grew older and life got busier. But for many, the thrill of soccer didn’t end with childhood—it simply grew up.
In St. Johns County, one pickup soccer group has been playing for over a decade, gathering three times a week at local parks. The group often plays at Plantation Park, Aberdeen Park, and Veterans Memorial Park, with players from around the county driving up to 45 minutes to participate.
According to FIFA, there are over 265 million players worldwide, making soccer the most popular sport on the planet. The popularity in St. Johns County reflects this diversity, with players in the pickup league hailing from all corners of the globe, including China, Russia, Ukraine, Spain, and various Latin American countries. The group includes men, women, and even semi-pro athletes, creating a vibrant and welcoming community.
If you’re interested in joining, this group is welcoming but maintains a structured approach. Each player can bring one guest on regular days or two on weekends, ensuring the group stays manageable. So, if you’re at the parks and want to join, go ahead and introduce yourself!
Here are a few of their rules:
The goal is to have fun, with absolutely no fighting or cursing allowed.
If a fight occurs, there’s a suspension of two weeks for the first offense, one month for the second, and one year for the third.
Their dedication shows how much adults value their athletic outlets, reminding us that while we may outgrow childhood jerseys, we never have to outgrow our love for the game.
Team Up With The Foundation:
Accessible recreational spaces for adults help them stay active, build connections within communities, and promote a lifelong approach to better wellness. Active adults also set a positive example for children, encouraging kids to stay active as well. This creates a ripple effect, benefiting youth sports organizations and fostering a culture of health and wellness across all ages.
If you belong to a group or organization that engages with adult park users, we encourage you to share your story with us. Together, we can raise awareness about the value of our public parks and advocate for these essential services that greatly benefit our community.
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