How to Organize a Soccer Tournament the Right Way
NYC’s largest recreational tournament, The Governor’s Cup, is coming up (Registration opens 1/15)
FIFA president Gianni Infantino dialled the hyperbole up to eleven when he recently
described the 2026 World Cup as “simply the greatest event mankind will ever see.”
Exaggeration aside, there’s no question that a well-organised football tournament can
deliver impact both on and off the pitch — whether it’s a World Cup final or a Sunday
morning in Brooklyn.
NYC Footy is increasingly fluent in the language of tournament football, having doubled the
number of events it hosted in 2025. As the scale of these events grows, so too do the branding and commercial opportunities around them.
This week, The Carrier caught up with Fabricio Lima, NYC Footy’s Head of Business
Development & Events, to talk through the challenges and rewards of running large recreational
soccer tournaments — and to gather his three top tips for building strong, productive partnerships with sponsors.
The NYC Footy community
For those unfamiliar with the backstory, NYC Footy began in 2010 when Tarek Pertew and
Gerardo Cueva — two friends who met on a free agent team in another league — decided to offer something better.
NYC Footy has since grown to become the nation’s largest adult soccer league, with over 30,000
players taking to its many fields each season.
With roughly 80 leagues in operation this winter, league play remains NYC Footy’s bread and
butter. But with a wider community of around 60,000 working professionals and soccer lovers,
tournaments offer something different to both players and the organisation itself.
The view at the Copa Old Parr tournament, a smooth tasting Footy brand activation.
There is clear crossover between leagues and tournaments and, as Fabricio explains, this
extends to NYC Footy’s commercial relationships.
“Our jerseys are probably our most prized sponsorship opportunities. People leave their house
every week in a NYC Footy jersey; the logo walks around New York and is highly visible in public
parks with a lot of people coming by.
“However, this year two of our jersey sponsors — JD Sports and the Waterloo drinks brand —
deepened their relationships with us. JD Sports sponsored not only our jerseys, but almost all of
our events, and we’re now working with them on tournaments in Dallas and Miami as well. It’s
much the same with Waterloo, who now do product placement at our events.”
Different types of tournaments
The Cup of Dreams tournament crew: proof that malls aren’t just for shopping anymore.
Fabricio joined the organisation in 2024 and, under his watch, the number of tournaments NYC
Footy organised doubled from five to ten this calendar year.
These events can be divided into three distinct categories. The first comprises NYC Footy’s own
flagship tournaments: the Governor’s Cup, Footy Fest Catskills, Footy Fest Miami and the Cup of
Dreams — the latter hosted at the American Dream Mall as part of the build-up to the 2026 World
Cup.
Watch out Miami: more tournaments are on the way in 2026!
A second group of tournaments are born from partnerships with other businesses and brands. In
2025, Fuchs Fest was organised in collaboration with former English Premier League winner
Christian Fuchs in April, while the Chopped Cheese Classic was an altogether different affair —
bringing together bodega owners, workers and friends, followed by a block party for the wider
community.
The third category consists of exclusively sponsored tournaments, which NYC Footy runs on
behalf of other companies. The KOTN Cup, the Copa Old Parr, the Etihad Corporate Cup and the
Cost of Living Classic all fell into this category in 2025 — the latter making a splash on the front
pages in November during a pivotal week in New York City politics.
Fabricio’s top three tips for potential sponsors
FC Bayern’s Berni celebrating Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Fall championship.
When it comes to maximising the commercial opportunities offered by well-run soccer
tournaments, NYC Footy has learned what works — and what doesn’t — through experience.
With that in mind, we asked Fabricio to share three key takeaways for potential tournament
sponsors to consider.
Top of Fabricio’s list is finding the right fit between NYC Footy and any prospective sponsor.
“Our brand audience is, on average, around 30 years old. They are physically active, New York–
based professionals. Successful partnerships happen when NYC Footy and its sponsors align —
in terms of outlook, values and attitude,” he explains.
“Scale is also important. We have a significant presence in New York, but we are still relatively
niche.”
2. Focus on the bigger picture
The Kotn Cup has quickly become a premiere NY Fashion Week event.
While tournaments can certainly drive on-site revenue, Fabricio believes it is important to look
beyond any units shifted on event day.
“We do see conversions through discount offers and similar initiatives, but I would say it’s less
about immediate sales,” he explains.
“A tournament is not going to help you sell 60,000 pairs of shoes in one go. However, if you’re looking to put your brand out there and associate it with NYC Footy and its community, then that’s
a good fit.
“I’ll give you an example. We have a partner, Mac Weldon, a clothing brand. They’re happy to
sponsor our events because they see our community starting to say, ‘Hey, this is a nice, good-
quality brand.’ There’s value in that, even if it doesn’t translate immediately into increased sales.”
3. Play the long game
Any team hoping to win a tournament needs to display consistency and resilience — and much the same applies when it comes to sponsors maximising their return from such events.
“It’s more than one tournament; it’s a process,” Fabricio adds. “You’ve got to be involved in one event, then a second, then a third to really see results.”
Don’t leave things up in the air - connect about a custom brand activation here.
Soccer Slang: Zone 14
Know your zones by heart? Photo: Medium/Getty Images.
Soccer may ultimately be about putting the ball in the net — but the modern game is thick with jargon.
As tactics grow increasingly shaped by data and analytics, players and coaches now speak an ever-evolving technical language — one that NYC Footy’s Soccer Slang series is here to decode.
From Gegenpressing to Rest Defence, we translate the phrases that make contemporary soccer sound almost like science fiction.
This week, we’re looking at one of the most dangerous areas on a soccer field: Zone 14.
Zone 14
Any armchair tactician worth his salt can tear apart the tactics of a professional coach in the time it takes to sup a pint. Such experts talk a great game and love to pepper conversations with an eclectic mix of soccer slang — and if they really want to blow your mind, they might just drop a “Zone 14” reference.
Study Messi’s moves and you’ll be a Zone 14 pro! Photo: Getty Images
Like much of the terminology we tackle in this series, Zone 14 may sound a bit “out there,” but once you strip it back, it’s a simple idea.
Coaches break the field into 18 rectangular zones to better understand where decisive moments happen. And Zone 14 is the central strip just outside the penalty box, stretching roughly 10–15 metres toward the halfway line.
So, why does Zone 14 matter?
Well, the reason pros and anoraks alike are obsessed with this area is its disproportionate influence on results: it’s where games are won and lost.
Often referred to as “the hole,” Zone 14 is where a high percentage of key passes, through balls, and shots originate — and it is an obvious hot spot for free-kick specialists, creators, and anyone capable of unlocking a packed defence.
Once the holes in your understanding of the hole are filled, other terms slot neatly into place — like the “False 9” (ghost strikers who drop into midfield) and the “False 10” (wingers and midfielders who regularly drift into Zone 14).
To bring this idea to life, let’s look at the player who reads this zone better than anyone in history: Lionel Messi.
He may be in the twilight of his career, but Messi’s left foot still conjures exquisite moments — and earlier this month he laid on two goals to carry Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title.
Those two match-winning assists? Zone 14.
The Best Team Names of 2025
Did your team make the cut when it comes to our top team names?
What's in a name? Win or lose, if your team name brings your squad a smile, you know you're doing this rec league thing right - which leads us to our top team names for 2025 (w/ creative categories included)
Top Teams Named After Players
Show Me The Mané
Say my Neymar
SIUUUU
Messi Business
Green Eggs and Bellingham
Top Teams Named After A Club
Real Sosobad
Unathletico de Madrid
Boca Seniors
ManChestHair United
Expected Toulouse
Top Teams Named After The Pub
FC Beercelona
Win or Booze
sCoors Light
We're getting drinks after this
New York Vodka Red Bulls
The Top Made-for-TV & Musical Teams
Game of Throw-Ins
How I Megged Your Mother
Talking Headers
Pique Blinders
Cesc And The City
The Top Teams at Wordplay
Run Like The Winded
Footy Fetish
CTRL-Ball
Goal Diggerz
Ballon D'Floor FC
The Top Animal Lovers
Trash Pandas
VHBall Hogs
Escape Goats
Kicking Guppies
Capybaras FC
The Top Free Agent Teams
FA 99 Problems But A Pitch Ain't One
FA Afternoon De Ligt
FA Hips Don't Szoboszlai
FA Queen LaFifa
FA Rapid Thigh Movement
The Top NSFW Teams
Full Kit Wankers
Master Baiters
Inter Ya Mom
Pain in Diaz
50Shades O'Shea
Honorable Mention: The Local Legend Team
Bob's Furniture and Appliance Liquidation Outlets
Five stone-cold stunning reasons to play soccer this winter!
Do we think Cole “Cold” Palmer would play in the snow? We think yes. Credit: Getty Images
Having braved whatever weather New York has thrown at us over the past 15 years, NYC Footy is perfectly placed to talk about the real pros (and very few cons) of winter soccer — and, trust us, it gets an unfairly bad rap.
As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, the human instinct to curl up beside a fire really kicks in. But here’s the thing: in our experience, that mug of hot cocoa tastes way better after a kickabout.
So with that in mind, here are our five best reasons to chill out about the weather — literally — and play soccer this winter.
1. ’Tis the season to feel the burn.
A scorching summer’s day might be perfect for topping up the tan, but it’s hardly ideal for sprinting after channel balls. In the winter months, though, moving is less a choice and more a survival tactic — and that’s great news for your game. With everyone naturally motivated to stay active, matches tend to be sharper, livelier, and more competitive. And from an individual standpoint? You’ll be warming up and burning through calories without even noticing.
2. Cold exposure is seriously good for you.
Cold therapy is big business these days, but a winter soccer league gives you most of the benefits for free. Exposure to the cold has been linked to reduced muscle soreness, lower inflammation, and improved mood and mental alertness thanks to the release of endorphins and noradrenaline — all of which can support your immune system and metabolism. Research also suggests you’re likely to enjoy deeper, higher-quality sleep after lowering your core body temperature. A post-match ice bath is probably excessive, but you get the picture!
3. Team spirit goes through the roof.
There’s a certain magic to a crisp winter evening, and the camaraderie of braving the elements together is absolutely a thing. The crunch of frost underfoot, the thwack of a freezing ball, the kind of shots that tingle your toes — winter just hits different. And that shared experience deepens your team’s bond both on and off the field. A few ice-cold beers or a couple of glasses of wine in the bar afterwards can quickly turn a last-minute victory into the stuff of legend.
4. You can rock some winter fashion.
While the purists will stubbornly stick to shorts and a T-shirt in any weather, winter opens up a whole new world of cosy footy gear for everyone else. Gloves, snoods, beanies, thermals — if you want to throw on another layer (or three), now’s your moment. On a more practical note, winter is the perfect time to invest in proper surface-appropriate footwear; you don’t want to be slipping and sliding any more than necessary. And one last tip: rub on a bit of classic Deep Heat five minutes before kick-off, and even sub-zero temperatures will feel almost balmy.
5. Could there be a better time for that 'Cold Palmer' goal celebration?
Enough said here. Winter is the perfect time to nestle a shot in the top corner and then wheel away Cole Palmer-style — it may be cold, but that celebration never gets old!
We hope this inspires you to give winter soccer a crack if you haven’t already — or if you’ve been on the fence until now.
Strutting your stuff in a summer or fall league is all well and good… but it takes a certain type of player to deliver on a freezing Tuesday night at Pier 40.
Soccer Slang: Game State
Is this the best position to take a peak at the scoreboard? Photo: Getty Images
Soccer may ultimately be about putting the ball in the net — but the modern game is thick with jargon.
As tactics become increasingly shaped by data and analytics, players and coaches now speak an ever-evolving technical language — one that NYC Footy’s Soccer Slang series is here to decode.
From Gegenpressing to Rest Defence, we translate the phrases that make contemporary soccer sound more like science fiction.
This week, we look at one of the most overlooked factors in understanding what’s really happening on the pitch: game state.
Game State
Mentality is everything in sport, as in life, and it’s remarkable how dramatically attitudes can shift during a match.
Every NYC Footy regular can relate to this: you start a game in full gung-ho mode, grab an early goal — and then retreat into your shells.
Sure, that can be a legitimate strategy, but this sudden ‘180’ often comes down to human instinct: the urge to protect what we have.
A team’s approach — consciously or subconsciously — is almost always shaped by the scoreline.
Game state data aims to reveal how a team’s behaviour, strategy, and performance change depending on whether they’re ahead, level, or behind.
For example, a team leading 2–0 in the 60th minute will not play the same way as one desperately chasing an equaliser. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how game state skews core metrics such as possession, shot counts, expected goals (xG), and much more.
Teams in front often look statistically worse: less possession, reduced chance creation, and more defensive work.
Meanwhile, teams chasing the game tend to post inflated attacking numbers as they push forward in search of a comeback.
Game state, visualized. Credit: X/Opta Analyst
To put theory into practice, look at Manchester City. They often rack up huge attacking numbers early on, then slip into cruise control once they take the lead. On paper, their output seems to drop — but game state tells the real story.
So next time your team suddenly sits back after scoring — don’t panic. Recognise the game state, and plot your next move.
In sport, as in life: context is key.
The Top Holiday Gift Picks, According to NYC Footy Staff
You don’t actually have to be from Maine to fall in love with a Hearts of Pine jersey
Struggling to find the gift that nets you a winner? NYC Footy’s staff is here with our personal recommendations to ensure you’re still in good standing with the ones you love when it’s all said and done.
From top turf shoes to the professionals who can get your body back on track, here's a look at what's catching our attention during the 2025 Holiday Season:
NYC Footy Team Staff Pick: Mack Weldon's Atlas Every Day Backpack
Our champ swag partner makes a fine backpack for your fields of study (and play)
There’s a lot of love for our champ swag partners’ Atlas Everyday Backpack across our community, especially if your current gym bag solution isn’t water-resistant. Pick one up for that friend who can’t carry it all on their shoulders and watch how their life (and maybe posture) changes for the better.
Pat Seaward, Manager of Field Operations: Maine Hearts of Pines jerseys
Whether you were born in The Pine Tree State or Maine brain is your constant state of mind is your brain, wear how you feel by picking up a Hearts of Pine jersey. Celebrating their first season in USL One, picking up a snazzy jersey representative of Maine's entire soccer community has all the holiday feels you'll need.
Eliot Katz. Referee Manager and Mentor: TF1 Turf Shoes
TF1’s turf shoes are the talk of the town this holiday season - pick up a pair before you can’t!
I just got a pair of these cool new turf shoes - they’d make an awesome (not cheap) gift. Old school looks, very comfortable.
Jessica Caunedo, Manager, Marketing: Slip's Maya Skinny Scrunchies
Windy hair days have met their match
Jessica, our incredible Director of Marketing, had this to say for anyone searching for a way to tame any hair that might appear in your line of vision:
"These hair ties are some of the best for the girls who like to go out after a game! Despite being satin and the name of the brand, they don't slip out even during your toughest match, and they leave no pesky indent in your hair, so you're ready to go for post-game drinks! The best part? They come in all natural hair colors and some fun variety packs as well."
John Adam Plenge, Manager, Warehouse Operations: The Rotisserie Chicken Bag...Bag
No added hormones or steroids in this chic(ken) bag.
Is there anything more intimidating than seeing a player pull up with a bag that might have an entire rotisserie chicken waiting to be devoured inside? Whether you're into playing mind games with your opponent or use food as a tool for team motivation, this quirky gift can be the one your special someone talks about for ages (in a good way.)
Tarek's Picks
Should you wish to know some of the ways I've been able to maintain my presence on the pitch, I'm still standing tall thanks to my Aryse ankle supports - along with the incredible support of the following practitioners:
Grand Nature is the definition of a hidden, only in the know operation. Check them out!
For Massage Therapy: Charlie "Chuck" Knuckles at Grand Nature
Nobody does a better acupoint pressure massage. This treatment might not be ideal for everyone, but it's worked wonders for me.
For Orthopedic Surgery: Dr. Matthew (Teo) Mendez, NY Orthopedics
For Sports Medicine: Dr. Patrick Jean Pierre, Atlantic Orthopedics
2025’s Top 9 Moments in NYC Soccer
The Cost of Living Classic made the list of top moments in NYC soccer in 2025.
We know 2025 will go down as the year 6...7 ate up the spotlight, but last we checked, Instagram is still running a top 9 that recaps our year.
In case you're curious, these are our top moments (though not in any particular order) in the year that made 2025 truly remarkable for the greater NYC Footy community.
Gotham FC's 2nd NWSL championship in 3 years.
This Fuchs Fest snow-covered confetti drop
Christian Fuchs IG cameo
NYCFC in the Eastern Conference Finals
The addition of Socceroof Wall Street (+ The Etihad Corporate Cup)
The debut of Planet Footy!
Having 700+ teams in back-to-back seasons, trust an NYC Footy league to be their official third place.
And we've still got an entire month to go!
As we look back at Thanksgiving weekend, we're thankful to have everyone here supporting us every step of the way. From repping Footy with a big pigeon tank to showing up season after season with a smile, you are the heart of our operation. And it's our job to keep exceeding those expectations.
Soccer Slang: The Rest Defence
Positioning is everything - learn more about one of the best: The Rest Defence.
Soccer may ultimately be about putting the ball in the net — but the modern game is overflowing with jargon.
As tactics become increasingly shaped by data and analytics, players and coaches have developed an ever-evolving technical language — one that NYC Footy’s Soccer Slang series aims to decode.
From Gegenpressing to The Rest Defence, we translate the phrases that make contemporary soccer sound more like science fiction.
This week, we break down the art of defending when you’re actually attacking. Bear with us!
The Rest Defence
You’re on the front foot. The crowd’s whipped up, your team’s momentum is building by the second — you can feel deep in your bones that a goal is coming. But at which end?
With transitions and counter-attacks in vogue these days, it pays for managers and players to put contingency plans in place. And that’s where a team’s rest defence (a term derived from German and Dutch phrases that translate as ‘remaining defence’) comes in.
When a team attacks, plenty of players push forward to try to create chances. But the other players — usually defenders and defensive midfielders — stay behind the ball. They might circulate possession when needed, but their real job is to control space, manage risk, and prevent counter-attacks.
This supporting cast — their positioning, their decisions, their responsibilities — forms the team’s rest defence. In most tactical systems, around five players commit to the attack, while the other five outfield players (plus the goalkeeper) provide the defensive structure behind them.
Arsenal arguably have the most effective rest defence in Europe at the moment, so let’s quickly assess the attributes of their defensive players.
An intelligent defensive midfielder like Martin Zubimendi is essential, given his tactical awareness and ability to screen his defence while supporting attacks. Rugged, quick centre-backs like Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba are built to win 1v1 duels and shut down the counter-attacking threats posed by fast forwards.
“Attack wins you games, but rest defence wins you leagues.”
We’ve butchered a timeless Alex Ferguson quote there — but we’re not too far wide of the mark.
Soccer Slang: The Half Turn
A textbook Half Turn requires total body control - and no brakes. (Photo: Getty Images/Chris Brunskill)
Soccer may ultimately be about putting the ball in the net — but the modern game is overflowing with jargon.
As tactics become increasingly shaped by data and analytics, players and coaches have developed an ever-evolving technical language — one that NYC Footy’s new Soccer Slang series aims to decode.
From Gegenpressing to The Rest Defence, we translate the phrases that make contemporary soccer sound more like science fiction.
This week, we’re breaking down the deceptively simple — but hugely influential — half turn.
The Half Turn
The legendary Johan Cruyff captured it perfectly: “If you play in one touch, very good. If you touch the ball twice, good. If you touch it three times, wrong.”
But even a brilliant first touch can be wasted if a player doesn’t know how to receive the ball. That’s where the half turn comes in.
We’ve all heard a commentator exclaim that a player “takes the ball brilliantly on the half turn”… but what does that actually mean? And why has this skill become so vital in the modern game?
Mastered by fleet-footed operators like Manchester City’s Phil Foden, the half turn is the art of opening the body and receiving the ball side-on.
Imagine you’re passing the ball forward to a teammate:
If he’s facing completely away from you, he’s “fully turned.”
If he’s facing his own goal, he’s “not turned” at all.
The half turn sits between those extremes — a sweet spot that gives the player maximum awareness of their surroundings and the widest range of options for what comes next.
The value of receiving the ball in this way is obvious. At their peak, Barcelona’s iconic midfield trio — Xavi, Iniesta, and Busquets — were nearly impossible to dispossess. Opponents could swear they had them trapped… yet they always wriggled free.
So, which would you choose?
Option A: Take a great first touch with a closed body position. Option B: Take a great first touch on the half turn.
We know which one Johan would’ve taken.
Soccer Slang: The Gegenpress
The Gegenpress in visual form. Study. Execute. Repeat as necessary. Photo: Pexels
Soccer may ultimately be about putting the ball in the net — but today’s game is overflowing with jargon.
With tactics increasingly shaped by data and analytics, players and coaches are creating an ever-evolving and fluid new language — which NYC Footy’s new Soccer Slang series aims to translate.
From Parking the Bus to The Rest Defence, we’ll decode the phrases that make modern soccer sound more like science fiction.
First up, a potent weapon in the armoury of teams intent on playing 'Rock and Roll' soccer: The Gegenpress.
When Jürgen Klopp arrived at Liverpool in 2015, he contrasted his style with the more measured passing of then-Premier League rivals Arsenal, managed by Arsène Wenger.
“I think (Wenger) likes having the ball, playing football, passes — it’s like an orchestra,” said Klopp. “I like heavy metal more. I always want it loud! I want to have this boom!”
True to his word, Klopp turned the Reds into a ferocious, high-intensity machine that conquered England and Europe. At the heart of that success lay one simple principle: Gegenpressing.
Derived from the German for “counter-pressing,” the idea is simple — win the ball back immediately after losing it, ideally high up the pitch. By doing so, teams can catch opponents off guard and create instant scoring chances.
As Klopp once explained, “Gegenpressing lets you win back the ball nearer to the goal. It’s only one pass away from a really good opportunity.”
Executed well, it’s both devastating and beautiful, and we urge our NYC Footy family to give it a whirl in the coming weeks.
Maybe try it before the festive season though — Gegenpressing in January will leave most of us high and dry given our post-Christmas fitness levels!
7 Successful Ways to Strike a Soccer Ball
Not all big swings need to strike fear on the field.
The wonderful thing about footy is there are always more skills to refine, tactics to explore, tricks to invent, and opponents to leave standing! And, with that in mind, our Inspiration Series is here to spark your imagination and inspire you to try something different in your next game…
To kick things off, we’re focusing on the art of ball-striking with seven different techniques that will bewitch even the best of goalkeepers!
The Knuckleball
Arguably first perfected by Brazilian free-kick specialist Juninho Pernambucano, Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo brought this technique to the mainstream. The idea is to kick the ball so it flies through the air with little to no spin at all… which is easier said than done! Check out this video for some outrageous mid-air movement
The Skimmer
You may need a little help from your playing surface for this one! Skidding a half-volley across the field is a thing of beauty… and even better if you can let one of these fly at goal, as the chances of a keeper collecting cleanly are almost non-existent. Your field doesn’t need to be as wet as in the following example, but you get the picture!
The Swerve
The jury’s out on the ideal method to make the ball swerve, and some would argue that playing with a slightly flat ball is your best bet. What is not in doubt is that - if you perfect the art - your team-mates will love you (while the Goalkeepers Union will not!). This 41-meter missile from Hakan Calhanoglu for Hamburg is a fine example and remains to this day the longest shot ever scored in the German Bundesliga.
The Swerve Volley
Although this can be pulled out by outfielders as well, here’s one for NYC Footy’s legion of goalkeepers. Slicing hard across the ball can add ridiculous pace and fade to your delivery. The only problem for the intended recipient is that reading the flight of the ball can be a nightmare!
The Dip
The ability to perfectly time acrobatic volleys is gifted to a select few… but it’s fair to say that keeping your eye on the ball and dialing down the power will help you master them. Still one of the greatest goals of all-time, Marco Van Basten’s strike at the 1988 European Championships is Exhibit A when talk turns to the best dipping volleys in history.
The Whip
Plenty of players can ping a ball over a defensive wall… but few can whip it with enough velocity to leave keepers stranded. Most free-kicks these days follow this archetype, and the fact not many go in is a testament to how difficult this technique is to perfect. When they go in, though, they are LOVELY!
The Toe Punt
Often derided as a basic skill, there is a time and place for an outrageous toe poke! With very little back lift, a toe punt can generate surprising power…and if you add in an element of surprise, you are on to a winner! Brazilian wizard Ronaldinho was one of the greats in this regard.
The Scariest Soccer Celebrations To Break Out On Halloween
Halloween’s creeping closer, and if spooky celebrations are your game, NYC Footy is ready to serve as your stage. Whether you’re hunting for costume inspiration or just fancy a peek at some horrific goal-fuelled shenanigans, here are six footballers whose celebrations will send a shiver down your spine.
We were tempted to include the Tardelli Scream — made famous by Italy midfielder Marco Tardelli after his goal in the 1982 World Cup final — but we’ve moved with the times and found six (666 would’ve taken far too long!) celebrations still haunting pitches today.
Let’s kick off with a back-from-the-dead striker banging them in over in Italy.
6. Rasmus Højlund
The old throat slit, a tried and true classic celebration. (Photo: VisionHaus/Getty Images)
The Denmark striker had the life sucked out of him at Manchester United, but he’s back with a vengeance at Napoli — and his throat-slitting celebration could soon become a regular sight in Serie A. Højlund gives off Berserker/Viking vibes at the best of times, and his current form is scaring the life out of Italian defences.
Omar Marmoush’s celebrations would make Dexter Morgan proud (Photo: Getty Images)
5. Omar Marmoush
The Egyptian forward endured an annus horribilis last season after joining Manchester City, but he showed enough to suggest he can still terrify the Premier League. Now fit again after a spell on the sidelines, Marmoush will be looking to recapture his fearsome form at Eintracht Frankfurt — and unleash his blood-spattered celebrations on an English audience.
Viktor Gyökeres’ dark knight pose is an easy win (Photo: Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
4. Viktor Gyökeres
The Swedish powerhouse massacred the Primeira Liga during his two seasons in Portugal and now finds himself top of the table in the English Premier League with Arsenal. Bristling with aggression, the hard-running striker has yet to fully hit his stride with the Gunners, but it feels only a matter of time before his Batman-inspired celebration becomes the bane of opposing defenders’ lives.
Cole Palmer reminding us he’s become a stone cold kickin’ killer(Photo: Lars Baron Getty Images)
3. Cole Palmer
Okay, we admit it — there’s nothing overtly scary about the Chelsea playmaker’s “Cold Palmer” celebration. That said, the 23-year-old’s mutation from Manchester City academy kid into Stamford Bridge monster has been something to behold — and has undoubtedly sent shivers up the spine of every Premier League defender.
Raul Jimenez’s pirate inspired hook celebration is Jack Sparrow approved (Photo: PA Media)
2. Raúl Jiménez
The Mexican veteran certainly isn’t scared of crosses, as his dozen Premier League goals last season testify. Now 34, Jiménez still has a few heinous tricks up his sleeve after scoring, and any player who brandishes a hook in the throes of goal-scoring passion is fine by us. The man’s a nightmare for defenders — and maybe for costume departments, too!
Want to wear a mask this Halloween? Edon has you covered. (Photo: Versus)
1. Edon Zhegrova
The Kosovan midfielder has yet to strike dread into defenses since joining Juventus, but his box-office potential is clear from the chilling celebrations he pulled off at Ligue 1 Lille. It takes an ominous kind of swagger — and devilish amounts of pre-match prep — to plan a foreboding celebration of this scale. If you’re planning on wearing a mask, take notes from this man!
We hope you found those six celebrations mildly demonic — and that they inspire you to up your Halloween game this year. Got a spooky celebration we missed? Let us know!
The Cost of Living Classic: A Photo Journey from First to Final Whistle
What do you get when you mix a soccer tournament and a mayoral campaign in a Coney Island baseball stadium? The Cost of Living Classic, — where 32 teams uniting players from across all five boros let their legs do the talking.
Taking place at Maimonides Park with the iconic Astroland rides spinning in the background, felt like a love letter to New York itself — loud, colorful, and full of heart. From dazzling footwork on the field to post-game laughs in the stands, it was a day where community came first and everyone played for the love of the game. It’s also the moment NYC’s soccer community planted its flag as a shining example of why soccer is the ultimate unifier.
Big shoutout to our partner, Zohran for NYC, whose trust in NYC Footy to put on one hell of a tournament helped make the Classic more than just a campaign stop— it was a celebration of New Yorkers, our perseverance, and our ability to have pure fun.
Maimonides Park in Coney Island, host of the First Cost of Living Classic
Huddling up to remember to take it all in on a great day for play.
The Bronx brought its big swinging boots to The Cost of Living Classic
NYC Footy’s Paloma ball taking more twists and turns today than a rider on the Cyclone are we right?
Different boros, same mission. Spread soccer’s joy to all those around.
The Cost of Living Classic at Maimonides Park. Please take in that Coney Island background.
Staten Island out here putting on the moves.
NYC soccer legends in the house at The Cost of Living Classic.
Big wins mean getting your feet off the ground in celebration.
A great night for soccer ends with an epic photo. Thank you to all who came out!
The Cost of Living Classic: A Clinic in Team Collaboration
The Cost of Living Classic is why bringing New Yorkers together through soccer is the ultimate win!
The Cost of Living Classic uniting New Yorkers in a way only soccer has the power to do.
In a city that never stops moving, grabbing people’s attention — let alone bringing them together — is no small feat. And yet, this past weekend, soccer did what it does best — it cut through the noise.
The Cost of Living Classic wasn’t just another tournament produced by NYC Footy. It was the result of long term brand awareness and impactful collaboration, the kind that turns an idea into something people can feel, kick, throw, and of course, run with.
When the Zohran for NYC campaign set out to create an event that could reach players from all five boroughs and remind us of what community really means, NYC Footy was the natural choice to bring that vision to life. Why? Because NYC Footy has spent over a decade developing our player experience to make it as diverse as the city itself — team captains and individual players from every corner of New York, united by a game, and empowered by one another on and off the field.
Maimonides Park in Coney Island: An epic destination for the 1st ever Cost of Living Classic.
The result:
32 teams representing all five of NYC’s boros engaged in friendly 5v5 displays of sportsmanship. Spots filled less than an hour after Zohran for NYC’s announcement through social channels.
Over 2,000+ fans we in attendance at Maimonides Park in Coney Island, a stadium created to celebrate professional baseball’s return to Brooklyn, and will now forever be linked to footy lore.
One pivotal turning point in soccer’s pop culture zeitgeist. The Cost of Living Classic went beyond championship champagne pours. On the field, strangers became teammates. Off the field, conversations turned into connections. Soccer became the bridge — between neighborhoods, viewpoints, and experiences that don’t often meet in the same place.
It’s not an official NYC Footy Tournament without a team photo shot
Spread the word: NYC Footy knows how to create that championship feeling!
In a city as vast and fast-paced as New York, moments of collective pause are rare. But in the case of The Cost of Living Classic — a day spent outdoors embracing the artistic placement of a ball in the back of a net managed to create an everlasting moment.
The Cost of Living Classic proved that when organizations collaborate with intent, and when soccer is the platform, engagement doesn’t have to be forced — it happens playfully.
That’s the power of the game. And in New York, that’s saying something.
NYC Footy’s experiential expertise includes custom tournaments, corporate leagues, and community-based events that celebrate our dynamic game.
To learn more, visit nycfooty.com or reach out at [email protected]
A Message About the Cost of Living Classic
We have officially announced the launch of a new tournament uniting players from all five boroughs, The Cost of Living Classic — what we hear might become an annual tradition. That tournament will take place this Sunday, October 19.
The stage couldn't be more iconic. A new kind of Fall Classic right in the midst of MLB playoff season hosted at one of the nation's most iconic baseball venues, Maimonides Park in Coney Island. And without a NY baseball team left to attract New Yorkers to the sand lot, we're trading a Rawlings for a Paloma to keep the party going.
We're talking a 5-aside World Cup-style bracket with 10 games happening simultaneously while spectators root for anyone they damn well feel like, since they won't know any of the teams. Plus, classic Coney Island concessions will make the day even more memorable.
But first, a word.
A campaign led by long-time NYC Footy player Zohran Mamdani asked us to help produce this community soccer event. I said yes immediately. Not because I share Zohran’s political views, but because our mandate is simple: make soccer happen.
This is how NYC Footy needs to earn your trust — by putting our energy into bringing more soccer to more people, not by taking sides on non-soccer issues or isolating members of our community who don’t share my views on political agendas.
In fact, we really only have one rule about who doesn’t belong here. They’ve gone by the name “assholes” (or worse) for some, but to me, they’re energy vampires (not to be confused with our Vampire leagues) — folks who bring toxic energy on or off the pitch. And trust me, energy vampires have a diverse background and set of beliefs as well. Outside of that, we welcome everyone across all professions, beliefs, and backgrounds: bankers and bartenders, artists and analysts, those that call it "soccer" and those that call it "football" (it's called "footy", btw). Heck, even Democrats and Republicans are welcome. The magic of true community connection is that the strongest friendships often form not despite our differences, but because of them.
As I’m sure you’re acutely aware, we live in a time where nearly any topic can divide people — even a rec soccer tournament. it doesn't have to be this way. So long as we enjoy one another's company after engaging with curiosity and respect, what does it matter whether our minds or the opinions of others change?
If you’ve been around Footy long enough, you know I’m not stingy with words (I'm told I've put some players to sleep with my emails). Needless to say, some of you will find this email unnecessary and others will question the choice to produce this tournament at all. But I know most will appreciate the reassurance: NYC Footy isn’t “getting political.” We’re staying true to what’s always mattered — connection through play.
Put it this way: if it wasn’t Zohran who asked us to produce a soccer tournament, but one of his political opponents, we’d still do it — and I’d be writing this email.
Our staff and players are as diverse in thought as they are in background. By way of example, my co-founder, Gerardo, and I have a humorously respectful understanding that we disagree on more politically piqued topics than one might expect close friends and confidants could — yet we build this league side by side every day.
That’s the world I want for my kids — one where disagreement doesn’t end relationships, it deepens them.
I realize some of you might be thinking, “Whoa, Tarek. Please relax.” (That's a timely inside joke for the Footy Fest crowd.) And fair enough — but there’s a reason I’m taking it this far. Nearly every decision today seems to tap our tribal instincts when it doesn’t have to. Without context, this one might too and it's of the utmost importance to me that our entire community feels fully welcomed. At times that means explaining why we do what we do.
One of our core values is to "Communicate from a Brave Space". Respectfully sharing opinions, beliefs, ideas, etc without the risk of an unfriendly response or fear of being ostracized. We’re not only advancing soccer; we’re modeling the kind of community I hope we all want — one that engages with difference instead of retreating from it. Soccer has, for ages, been a tool for just that.
As for the practical side: running a soccer league in New York has never been harder. Field permits are scarce — and recent decisions have made them even more so. Among many other things, lights have been removed, budgets cut, and fees raised by 120%.
For 15 years, NYC Footy has worked to improve how this city supports recreational soccer — lobbying for better access, more lights, and stronger partnerships with Parks. In fact, we recently helped secure over $2M in lighting improvements for midtown fields, though there’s now a real chance they’ll never be installed. Despite these setbacks, we’ll continue to advocate for better access across all boroughs.
So when an influential leader — political or not — asks us to help put on a tournament that could bring more attention and resources to the sport, the answer will always be yes. And to be clear, we are being paid for our services.
If you align with Zohran’s vision, field a team. If you don’t but still love the game, field a team anyway. Either way, come play — and let’s talk: about soccer, about politics, about life. I’d love that (in person, not over text or email — that last bit’s important).
Soon I’ll share a “State of the Flock” update about what’s next for NYC Footy — our innovations, challenges, and hopes for the seasons ahead.
Until then, consider putting a team in for the first-ever Cost of Living Classic — a free 5v5 mixed-gender tournament taking place at Maimonides Park in Coney Island (home of the Brooklyn Cyclones) this Sunday, October 19 — hosted by Zohran for NYC.
Thirty-two teams, two divisions (competitive and casual), World Cup–style bracket: group stage, knockouts, finals and one heck of a festive atmosphere.
To learn more and register, visit The Cost of Living Classic.
Thanks for listening,
Tarek
P.S. I know you're desperately curious. Zohran is registered as a P2 player.
The Great Soccer Getaway: How Travel Tournaments Are Becoming Big Business for Brand Activations.
The Footy Fest at Legion Field in Delhi, NY kicks off Saturday Oct 11th!
There’s a new kind of football culture taking over America — and it’s not happening in stadiums. It’s happening on fields carved into mountain valleys, in post-tournament parties on Brooklyn piers, and in communities that treat a weekend tournament like a festival of sport, travel, and connection.
That’s Footy Fest — NYC Footy’s annual pilgrimage to the Catskills. Each year, 400+ players and their personal fan clubs make the trip to Delhi, NY, in the Great Western Catskills for a weekend that’s part tournament, part community retreat, and a fully immersive social experience.
It’s where soccer meets culture, and where brands that want to make an impact within the recreational soccer community meet real people doing what they love.
A Culture You Can’t Fake
Soccer has quietly become one of the most powerful lifestyle movements in the U.S. — and not just because of the pros. Across cities like New York, Austin, and LA, adult rec leagues are exploding. Players aren’t just showing up to compete; they’re showing up to connect, travel, and live the global game locally.
Footy Fest is the ultimate activation— a weekend where community and competition meet IRL. For brands, that means an audience that’s:
Diverse, active, and connected — spanning young professionals, creatives, and community leaders.
Experience-first — more interested in stories than status.
Social by nature — sharing every goal, sunset, and sponsor backdrop across platforms.
The Footy Fest community is full of who brands need: the kind of person who brings the same energy to a pickup match as they do to a pitch in the Catskills — and the kind of person brands are trying to reach everywhere else.
The Footy Fest Effect
What started as a local player getaway has turned into an ecosystem of experiences.
At Footy Fest, partnerships don’t just live on banners — they live in moments. For Footy Fest 2025, the following partners have
Best Day Brewing, so our players can enjoy some cold NA beers during Sober October
Mack Weldon, so our champions have that warm feeling inside knowing they’re wearing limited-edition hoodies.
Waterloo to add a little sparkle to the shine that is seeking out a refreshment in the Catskill sun.
El Buho, Lucky Energy, and Dumbo Moving to create a relaxing and refreshing experience where the flow of movement finds a way to make this the best day in Footy’s calendar.
These aren’t sponsorships — they’re stories. And they work because they’re woven into the culture, not plastered over it.
Why Brands Are Paying Attention
The global soccer tourism market is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030, with travel tournaments and community events driving a massive share of that growth.
Footy Fest sits at the intersection of that boom — a growing platform where players escape the city, local economies thrive, and brands authentically connect through experience.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, America’s relationship with soccer is only getting deeper — and more diverse. Footy Fest represents the heart of that shift: grassroots, global, and grounded in connection.
Time to Join In
If your brand wants to connect with a community that’s passionate, purposeful, and playful — come talk to us about our full plate of tournaments coming up to close out 2025 and kick off 2026.
Footy Fest isn’t just a weekend; it’s a movement built around the beautiful game and the people who make it beautiful. We hope you can join in on the fun.
Scoring Big in Crown Heights: An Athlete’s Ultimate Guide
So, you just moved to Brooklyn and want to stay active? We can help with that. Crown Heights comes to mind as one of the most overlooked neighborhoods for athletes to explore. It’s a warm stretch of concrete where you can play hard, eat well, and still stumble across hidden gems you won’t find on any tourist guide. If soccer’s your game, here’s the lineup of spots you’ve got to hit.
Start meeting your fellow footy aficionados at Socceroof Crown Heights.
Kick Things Off at Socceroof Crown Heights
If you do nothing else, make sure you get yourself to Socceroof Crown Heights.
Weather doesn’t matter here—rain, snow, whatever—you’re playing indoors in a top notch facility with quality locker rooms and a bar to boot! In addition to connecting with fellow soccer players via one of our NYC Footy leagues here, there’s always someone hanging around ready to pass on a little knowledge, making it super easy to meet people if you’re new in town.
This is your go-to spot, no question.
Cross-Train at the Major R. Owens Center
Bedford Armory’s soccer field is a big - but not the only - part of why athlete’s train here.
When you want to mix things up from soccer, check out the Major R. Owens Health & Wellness Community Center (aka the Armory if you’re in the know). It’s a massive facility with:
A full turf field (the biggest indoor one in the city, actually)
Basketball courts
A legit swimming pool
Fitness rooms and classes
Basically, it’s a playground for athletes. Think of it as your backup when you want variety—or if you’re feeling guilty about skipping leg day.
Street-Level Training
Don’t sleep on the outdoor scene either. Brower Park is smack in the middle of the neighborhood and has basketball courts, handball, a skatepark, and plenty of space to just run around. If you’re into bodyweight workouts, you’ll find pull-up bars and other spots for calisthenics.
And of course, Prospect Park is only a short jog away. If you want a longer run, that’s where you go. It’s also solid for cycling or just some open-air recovery.
Refuel at These Dining Destinations
A Cambodian feast awaits at Bong (if you can get in) Photo @kate_previte/Infatuation
Alright, let’s talk food—because after soccer, you’re going to be starving. Crown Heights has had a serious glow-up in the restaurant department recently.
Bong – This new Cambodian restaurant is buzzing right now. The food is bold, spicy, and different in the best way possible. It’s the perfect post-game feast - as long as you plan ahead.
Cafe Rue Dix – A French and Senegalese cafe, restaurant, and bar that should likely be your very first spot to visit before continuing your Crown Heights adventure.
Biarritz Pizza & Wine Bar – New Kosher pizza spot that took over from the iconic Basil. Solid pizza, great for grabbing a slice or winding down with some carbs after training.
Lisbonata – Portuguese bakery doing egg tarts (pastéis de nata). Good spot to grab something sweet on the way home.
Hidden Gems You’ll Want to Explore
Absorb the history of Crown Heights at the Weeksville Heritage Center
When you’re not training or eating, a few spots in Crown Heights are worth checking out just for the culture:
Weeksville Heritage Center – Historic site celebrating one of America’s first free Black communities. Super cool and meaningful.
FiveMyles Gallery – Low-key local art space that feels authentic and creative.
The side streets and murals—seriously, just wander. Crown Heights has so much street art and character tucked away.
A Perfect Crown Heights Athlete Day
Here’s how I’d map out a day if I were you:
Morning – Go for a run in Prospect Park to loosen up.
Late Morning – Hit Socceroof for a pickup game.
Lunch – Refuel at Bong (trust me, go for the stir-fried steak).
Afternoon – Chill at Major Owens, maybe swim a few laps or shoot hoops.
Evening – Grab pizza at Biarritz, then wind down on your walk home by checking out murals or catching a local gallery show.
Bottom line? Crown Heights is way more than just a place to crash for a few months. If you’re into sports, food, and a little exploring, this neighborhood is going to keep you busy. And honestly, you might not want to leave.
Scout Out: Socceroof Wall Street
Socceroof Wall Street leagues are heating up - here’s how to get in before this spot skyrockets.
When you’ve got New York’s iconic skyline as your backdrop, it’s hard to imagine a better place to play the game than the great outdoors. However, Socceroof Wall Street, the latest Socceroof location to hit NYC, is making a play to change your opinion on where to hibernate once winter hits.
Want to be swayed into signing up for a league at Socceroof Wall Street. Here are five reasons why 28 Liberty Street should be your next stop.
1. Indoor Fields Built for Bulls & Bears
Climate-controlled, completely new turf indoor fields are the reason you’re buying in early for field time at Socceroof Wall Street.
2. Lockerooms for quick suit-to-short changes
Located in the heart of the Financial District, Socceroof Wall Street and its brand new locker rooms are itailor-made for after-work games. Whether you’re hustling out of the office or returning to your neighborhood and need a workout before hitting the sack, Socceroof Wall Street leagues are a much more stable environment than the stock market if you’re looking to fuel your competitive edge without burning a hole through your pocket.
3. The Subway Lines
Convenience is the name of the game. With multiple lines just minutes away—including the 2, 3, 4, 5, J, and Z—getting to Socceroof Wall Street from practically anywhere in the city is a breeze. For anyone living or working downtown, it doesn’t get easier than this.
4. Share Insider Tips (About Your Opponent)
Socceroof isn’t just about fields—it’s about community. From corporate leagues and competitive matchups to casual drop-ins, you’ll find a mix of players who share the same passion. The energy is all business on the field, but don’t be surprised to find how colloquial everyone is once the game is over (changing out of a suit into a soccer jersey tends to do that)
5. From Socceroof to Stone Street
Yes, it’s true, Socceroof Wall Street has a bar if you’re in immediate need of a beverage (though not during an actual match we’d hope). However, since you’re playing indoors, why not take a quick trip over to Stone Street or the South Street Seaport’s latest watering hole, Quick Eternity.
Bottom line: This fall, Socceroof Wall Street has been a big hit with the NYC Footy crowd; there’s just 1 team spot left for our Monday P3/P4 league; you can buy in here.
In Memoriam: Remembering Thomas Gerbasi and Andrew Wong
Hi Footy Friend
[To make room for today's tribute, our Sunday edition of soccer-related programs and news will be moved to Monday (tomorrow)]
On Wednesday, while typing away at my computer I glanced at my phone as a text message came through from Gianluca, our Director of Ref Ops (and GM of BetterPlayer). I briefly caught the words "Tom Gerbasi" and "passed" and chose not to unlock my phone.
That can't be what I think it is.
I summoned the courage to unlock my phone and read the dreaded message in its entirety.
I still struggle to accept this reality, even as I type this message to the community. Tom was more than a friend because he had that extraordinarily rare ability to feel like family almost instantly. It felt like losing an uncle. I know I'm not alone in Footy members that will say the same.
What was worse about that dreaded day, was no sooner had I come to terms with the significance of that text, that a separate message from a different friend (and Footy player) came through about a player's passing. I assumed it was Tommy, of course. I had only once, ever, received a text message that a Footy player had died. It didn't for a second cross my mind that Adam might be referencing someone other than Thomas.
He was.
He was referring to one of his best friends he met playing Footy, Andrew Wong, a long time Footy player who passed away in a tragic accident while doing what he loved out west: hiking.
It was, without a doubt, the darkest day in NYC Footy's 15 year history.
Tom Gerbasi
There's a face I know I'll see when I show up at any Footy tournament. The encounter will begin with a witty remark or an anecdote that ensures I turn around with a smile to see the smirking, mischievous face of Thomas Gerbasi.
I met Tommy right when we were starting BetterPlayer. I can't recall if it was our first program or not, but it was amongst the earliest. He was in his mid-50s and wanted to give soccer a shot for the first time.
It stuck.
He was arguably the most committed member of the NYC Footy and BetterPlayer communities. He registered for both BetterPlayer and NYC Footy programs every season. But not just one. Multiple. And he'd commute from Staten island, most often with his lovely wife, Sonia.
Up until this past week, there were three guarantees in life. Death, taxes and a Tom Gerbasi Instagram post about how his recent Footy game went. I read every one and there was almost certainly a chuckle to be had as he planted some self-deprecating remark about his goalkeeping skills or how he ended up, once again, face down on the turf.
Tom was one of the most socially gifted humans I ever met. He was as direct as House, MD. Told it like it is, as they say. But it was impossible to be offended by it. That's a gift. It's the type of diplomacy that could unite two arch enemies without an ounce of performance to it. I can't begin to explain how rare that is and, more-so, how important that type of personality is in today's climate.
Tommy was everything I ever wanted NYC Footy to embody. Community, a sense of humor, honesty, reliability, not taking oneself too seriously, courage...
He tried a team sport. For the first time. In his 50s. He also has some inspirational words to share about it.
He joined multiple free agent teams, making friends wherever he went. He lost more games than he won (I'd wager a lot more). But at the end of each game, his post highlighted the team chemistry, the improvements, the fight. Often calling out specific players for their contributions. His key weekly fixture, his pride and joy, was his Sunday league with the Corrupted Youth FC, where the weekly team photo was a game of "guess who" would keep their top on.
You can tell when talking to Tom that his life was no walk in the park. And I sit here, muddled in regret for not spending more time asking him about his journey. It was so obviously interesting (this tribute piece from Yahoo Sports shares a wonderful teaser).
How did he find his way into boxing and ultimately as the editorial director for UFC? How did he meet his wonderful wife, Sonia, who shared such an inspiring bond as they ventured upon this soccer journey together? Why, in his mid 50s, did he decide to enter the intimidating and youthful world of soccer? Why, in his mid-50s did he say "fuck it" and join a Tough Mudder challenge? Was he always this way? Was there an event that sparked this "the time is now" attitude to living life?
I'm hopeful that I'll capture some of this from his writings. Less than 2 weeks ago, he published a book about boxing that will be a coffee table fixture in countless homes. The type of book that only one respected at the highest levels of the game can publish. Mine's already en route...
I really don't have the words to express how I'm feeling at this moment. What I keep coming back to as I look at photos of him on my phone is "am I really not going to see you again"?
He responds "it's nice to be missed".
These were the last words he ever texted me.
Tommy, you were family. You are family. And everyone you met will say the same, I'm certain of it. I'll eat my hat if at least one player on your team didn't call you Uncle Tommy. Because that's what it felt like having you around. We all knew you had our back. Always.
Words can't do it. They can't express the longing I feel to see you at the Footy Fest or Gov Cup or Fuchs Fest or The Cup of Dreams.
Rest easy, sir.
If you knew Tommy or feel like you knew him, please consider taking these actions:
1. Buy his book - just released. You won't regret if you're a fan of big beautiful books. It's his rendition of Boxing's 100 Best Fighters and can be found at B&N (his shared link) or Amazon.
2. Donate to a GoFundMe we set up to support his wife and family. We'll match all donations up to $10,000.
3. Read more, including this tribute from UFC, "Farewell to a King".
4. To view Thomas Gerbasi's obituary and or attend services next Saturday, visit here.
Now that you know Tommy, you'll appreciate this team photo
Andrew Wong
I didn't know Andrew particularly well. Certainly not as well as Thomas. In recent. years, he traded artificial turf for the real deal as he strengthened his commitment to hiking and presumably pursued a deeper connection with nature.
With the help of his teammate Adam, he was a fixture for funny team names (including Terrible Team Name TBD, Open to Sponsorship, Team 1, I Never Once Read Those Emails, It's Coming Home) and a regular at Battery Park and our tournaments.
He was a brilliant mind (graduating #1 in his class) and paired that with wonderful athleticism. He has left us far too soon and leaves behind so many loved ones that will long, forever, for one more moment with him.
For words far more eloquent and deeply personal than mine, you can find the beautiful tribute that honors his life here.
I'll take this moment to also honor Karenna Groff, a brilliant and talented MIT grad and athlete with the most promising future ahead of her. She passed too soon and, along with the hole she left in the lives of family and friends left behind, her loss remains felt by the NYC Footy community as well.
Thank you for listening and please reflect, for a moment, on the beauty of being alive. Please honor it by loving those around you, as a human with a human journey, even if they have strong beliefs that differ from yours.
Amidst the many sobering events of this past year, a great light for me has been how one particular relationship with someone I once considered a casual friend has strengthened inconceivably into one of my closest friendships, not despite our differences, but because of them. I wish that for this world.
And so did Tommy.
I hope to see you on the pitch.
Why Soccer Is the Perfect Sport to Start After You Turn 40
Joining a soccer league later in life can be incredibly rewqrding. Here’s why.
Taking up soccer later in life might sound daunting, but in New York City, it’s easier—and more rewarding—than you’d expect. With leagues designed for absolute beginners, welcoming practice programs, and fields set against the backdrop of the city, there’s no better place to start playing the game after 40. Here’s why NYC is the perfect setting to begin your soccer journey.
1. Fields in Every Corner of the City
From the iconic Pier 40 overlooking the Hudson, to Roosevelt Island’s Jack McManus Field with the skyline spread across the river, to the tucked-away rooftop turfs in Brooklyn and Queens, soccer fields in New York make the game accessible no matter where you live. Many are turf, meaning consistent conditions, year-round play, and lights that keep the game alive well into the evening.
2. Leagues Made for New Players
If you’re nervous about being a rookie, don’t be—NYC Footy’s P5 New to Soccer leagues are built exactly for you. These leagues cater to adults who are picking up the sport for the first time or coming back after years away. The vibe is supportive, the pace is beginner-friendly, and the emphasis is on enjoying the game as much as learning it. You’ll be surrounded by others who are starting fresh, which makes for an encouraging and fun atmosphere.
3. A Training Ground Just for Beginners
For those who want structured learning before (or alongside) games, BetterPlayer’s L1 Beginner practices are an amazing option. These sessions focus on fundamentals—passing, dribbling, shooting, positioning—taught in a low-pressure environment. It’s soccer school for adults, designed to build confidence and skills at a steady pace. Combine practices with a P5 league, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for growth.
4. A Workout That Doesn’t Feel Like One
Soccer is one of the best ways to stay fit after 40. The constant movement builds endurance, strengthens muscles, and improves agility—but because you’re caught up in the game, you barely notice the workout. Add in the NYC scenery—the East River views, Brooklyn waterfront sunsets, or uptown city lights—and staying active feels like a privilege, not a chore.
5. Community on and off the Field
Joining a league in New York is about more than just the matches. After games, teammates often spill into nearby restaurants, bars, or cafés. A game at Thomas Jefferson Park might end with a group dinner at Rao’s in East Harlem (well, if you have an inside connection that is); a weeknight match downtown can roll into a drink in the West Village. Soccer becomes the spark for new friendships, laughter, and a community that extends well beyond the pitch.
The Goal Line
Soccer isn’t just a sport for the young—it’s a lifelong game. And in New York City, with programs like NYC Footy’s P5 leagues and BetterPlayer’s L1 practices, there’s never been a better time to start after 40. The fields, the training, the community, and the city’s energy are waiting. All you need to do is lace up.
Sound like a plan? To learn about the next step, check out NYC Footy’s New To Soccer Guide.