When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Play It Again Sports
Why Play It Again Sports is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Play It Again Sports is a well-established sporting goods retailer renowned for buying, selling, and trading both new and high-quality used sports and fitness equipment. Founded in 1983 with nearly 300 locations across North America, it stands as the largest new and used sporting goods retailer in the region, offering customers and franchisees access to an extensive range of gear for all ages and sports interests. Its unique business model supports sustainability by recycling athletic equipment within the community, making it an ideal place for families, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts to meet up and find affordable, quality sports products. The stores carry a diverse inventory that includes everything from youth sports gear to adult fitness equipment, combining convenience and economic value. The brand’s reputation and buying power provide competitive pricing that rivals big-box retailers, enhancing the shopping experience. Beyond just equipment sales, Play It Again Sports encourages community engagement as many franchisees are active participants in local sports. This connection enhances the friendly, knowledgeable environment that invites customers to connect, shop, and share their passion for sports and fitness.
Here's what people think of Play It Again Sports
As of recent, Play It Again Sports holds a 4.2-star rating based on 82 reviews.
Customer reviews of Play It Again Sports average around 4.2 stars from 82 reviews, indicating generally positive satisfaction. Many customers appreciate the affordability of gently used equipment and the store’s commitment to sustainability, valuing the opportunity to both sell and purchase sports gear without breaking the bank. Positive reviews frequently highlight friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere, and the convenience of trading equipment on the spot for store credit or cash. Customers often mention the helpfulness of knowledgeable employees who understand sports requirements and provide valuable advice. On the negative side, some reviewers note occasional issues with limited inventory of specific items or sizes, which can be a drawback depending on location. Others have expressed concerns about inconsistent pricing or the quality condition of some used items. Some complaints also touch on operational challenges such as store hours or customer service inconsistencies. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong and community-focused sporting goods store that serves a diverse customer base, with its positives generally outweighing negatives. Many customers conclude that Play It Again Sports remains a valuable resource for affordable sports gear and supports eco-friendly shopping habits.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Matthew Dailey
I don’t know how this place can only stay open 10-5. I work a normal work schedule and this place is closed before I can get off and get there. I have shopped here for disc for a while, they have a good selection, but it is so hard to get there while it’s open I decided to take my disc purchases elsewhere. Another Round is a great option about five minutes south and they’re open until 7pm!
Karlton Rohlack
Both of the male employees lied to me and didn't give a damn about my initial request because they knew that once I entered the store they would upsell me on higher margin items. One of them did admit the truth but I have no reason to go to this store again.
Gabe Pineda
The staff and the merchandise are great they have just about ev everything you can think of and the prices are way better than anywhere else I give them 2 snaps and around the world 🌎
Erik Johnson
I was notified that a disc golf disc I lost was being sold at this store. It has my name and phone number clearly written on the rim. I asked Bird if I could please have it back after showing him my ID and he refused and said I could buy it back at a discount. The reason was that the store cannot reach out to every phone number on each disc that comes in. Fair point. HOWEVER, it certainly would be easy to ask the person bringing in the disc to verify their phone number and simply refuse to take any discs that don't match. I understand that resell shops don't have a legal obligation to verify the authenticity of every item, but this store needs to check its moral/ethical compass. How many other people's lost property are they profiting off instead of doing the right thing?
Bite Me
Whatever you do do not take anything you're trying to sell to this store location. Definitely go to the North location. Today I took my TaylorMade golf clubs to this store to sell them because I haven't been playing recently and the extra money doesn't hurt. The guy working took my clubs and looked at them for a few minutes before telling mecould give me $100 for the set. Which I knew they were worth more than that, I wasn't expecting to get what I paid for them, but I knew what they were worth. So I told him I was just going to keep them. He kinda made a irritated face before handing my bag back. I immediately drove to the location up north and went through the process again. The guy looked at my clubs for a few minutes and told me he could give me $425 for my clubs. I definitely don't think the value of my clubs raised in the 30 minutes it took me to deive north. No, I believe the first guy was trying to get over on me. So my point is to stay away from this location.
Matthew Dailey
I don’t know how this place can only stay open 10-5. I work a normal work schedule and this place is closed before I can get off and get there. I have shopped here for disc for a while, they have a good selection, but it is so hard to get there while it’s open I decided to take my disc purchases elsewhere. Another Round is a great option about five minutes south and they’re open until 7pm!
Karlton Rohlack
Both of the male employees lied to me and didn't give a damn about my initial request because they knew that once I entered the store they would upsell me on higher margin items. One of them did admit the truth but I have no reason to go to this store again.
Gabe Pineda
The staff and the merchandise are great they have just about ev everything you can think of and the prices are way better than anywhere else I give them 2 snaps and around the world 🌎
Erik Johnson
I was notified that a disc golf disc I lost was being sold at this store. It has my name and phone number clearly written on the rim. I asked Bird if I could please have it back after showing him my ID and he refused and said I could buy it back at a discount. The reason was that the store cannot reach out to every phone number on each disc that comes in. Fair point. HOWEVER, it certainly would be easy to ask the person bringing in the disc to verify their phone number and simply refuse to take any discs that don't match. I understand that resell shops don't have a legal obligation to verify the authenticity of every item, but this store needs to check its moral/ethical compass. How many other people's lost property are they profiting off instead of doing the right thing?
Bite Me
Whatever you do do not take anything you're trying to sell to this store location. Definitely go to the North location. Today I took my TaylorMade golf clubs to this store to sell them because I haven't been playing recently and the extra money doesn't hurt. The guy working took my clubs and looked at them for a few minutes before telling mecould give me $100 for the set. Which I knew they were worth more than that, I wasn't expecting to get what I paid for them, but I knew what they were worth. So I told him I was just going to keep them. He kinda made a irritated face before handing my bag back. I immediately drove to the location up north and went through the process again. The guy looked at my clubs for a few minutes and told me he could give me $425 for my clubs. I definitely don't think the value of my clubs raised in the 30 minutes it took me to deive north. No, I believe the first guy was trying to get over on me. So my point is to stay away from this location.
How to reach Play It Again Sports
None
Website: None
Why rally at Play It Again Sports with your friends? Because it offers more than just a retail destination—it’s a community hub where sports enthusiasts and families come together around a shared passion for active living. At Play It Again Sports, you and your friends can enjoy the excitement of discovering affordable, quality used sports and fitness gear that suits all skill levels and age groups. This makes it an excellent spot to plan a meetup, as everyone can explore, trade, or upgrade their equipment while bonding over sports interests. Moreover, the store fosters a sustainable and socially responsible environment by giving previously loved sports gear a second life, supporting both your budget and the planet. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, ready to help you find the perfect fit or gear for your next game or workout session. Whether you’re gearing up for basketball, soccer, tennis, or any other sport, Play It Again Sports encourages camaraderie, fitness, and eco-consciousness all under one roof, making it the ideal place to gather and ignite your group’s team spirit.
What activities can you enjoy at Play It Again Sports that make it perfect for a group meetup? The primary activity is exploring an extensive inventory of used sports equipment across a wide range of sports, including baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, hockey, and fitness gear. This variety allows groups with diverse interests to find something that excites them, facilitating a shared experience based on sport and physical activity. Beyond shopping, the store also provides an interactive environment to compare gear quality and prices, trade in old equipment for new or used items, and receive expert advice from staff who are passionate about sports technology and fitting. This means your meetup can include interactive discussions, demonstrations, and friendly debates about gear choices, enhancing the social element. The store’s buy-sell-trade model keeps the experience dynamic, as people bring in their old equipment to sell or trade, fostering a culture of sharing and recycling sports goods. This sustainable approach adds a unique value to the meetup—it’s not just about consumption, but also about community engagement and resourcefulness.
Why does Play It Again Sports stand out as a meetup venue for friends or family groups? One reason is its affordability combined with quality. The store offers used but meticulously checked gear at prices significantly lower than new retail, making it accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned athletes. This price point encourages experimentation and trying out new sports without large financial commitments, ideal for groups wanting to embark on new athletic activities together. Another key factor is the convenience of no-appointment buying and selling, making it easy for groups to drop in anytime during business hours and enjoy a flexible, spontaneous outing. The store’s friendly staff provide personalized gear-fitting assistance, assuring that everyone gets the best experience and leaves with the most suitable equipment. This customer-focused environment lets meetups be stress-free and fun, with each person feeling supported in their sports ambitions. Also, by supporting a local business with a strong community presence, your group meetup becomes a part of a broader social initiative that promotes active lifestyles and environmental stewardship.
What specific sports or fitness gear options are available, and how do they support group activities at Play It Again Sports? The inventory includes gear for team sports like basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey, which naturally encourage group play and social gatherings. Having access to a variety of sizes and styles means friends and families can equip everyone properly, from kids just starting out to adults looking for advanced equipment. Fitness enthusiasts can find items for running, cycling, weight training, and more, ideal for groups that like to workout together or train for events. The store’s trade-in program incentivizes exchanging older gear for newer or different items, making it cost-effective for groups to continuously upgrade or switch sports without breaking the bank. This flexibility fosters a spirit of adventure and trying new activities, perfect for keeping group meetups fresh and engaging over time. In essence, the breadth of available gear supports diverse group interests, empowering everyone to participate in sports or fitness together, building shared memories and stronger bonds.
How does the buy-sell-trade model at Play It Again Sports enhance the meetup experience for groups? This model creates a vibrant cycle of activity where people sell quality used sports equipment, get paid or receive store credit, and then reinvest those earnings into new gear—often with friends or family simultaneously doing the same. It’s an interactive process that turns shopping into an event, allowing groups to share tips, compare finds, and celebrate good deals together. This dynamic environment encourages communication and cooperation, as members help each other assess gear conditions, negotiate trades, and make informed buying decisions. The immediate payment or credit system adds an element of fun and satisfaction, turning shopping into an engaging group activity rather than a solitary chore. Additionally, by participating in this sustainable marketplace, groups contribute to reducing waste and promoting reuse—a conversation starter that can foster discussions about community impact and environmental responsibility during meetups. Overall, the buy-sell-trade system amplifies social interaction, cooperation, and enjoyment for anyone visiting in a group.
Why is Play It Again Sports a sustainable and community-conscious place to meet? Play It Again Sports champions sustainability by giving used sports and fitness gear a second life, diverting quality items from landfills and making sports more accessible to a wider audience. This commitment aligns with growing consumer values about environmental care and responsible purchasing—all key topics that can enrich group meetups with meaningful dialogue beyond just shopping. The store has supported local communities for over 40 years, building a reputation as a trusted place to buy, sell, or trade gear affordably while encouraging active lifestyles. Local ownership of individual stores means your visit helps support community jobs and small business economies. Families and friends can feel good knowing that when they purchase or trade gear at Play It Again Sports, they contribute to a cycle of reuse that benefits the environment and local athletes alike. This ethos of connection and care makes any meetup here not only fun but also purposeful.
How accessible and convenient is Play It Again Sports for group gatherings? Play It Again Sports locations offer generous hours, often open well into evening hours and weekends, allowing groups flexibility to meet up after work or on days off. No appointments are necessary, making it easy for spontaneous meetups or planned visits without logistical hurdles. The stores are often situated in convenient urban or suburban areas, accessible by car or public transit, making it straightforward for friends or family members coming from different parts of the city to gather. The variety of products in one location means you don’t have to bounce between different shops to get what your group needs for any sport or fitness activity. Knowledgeable staff ensure smooth and friendly service, minimizing wait times and maximizing the enjoyment of your group outing. This ease of access and service makes Play It Again Sports an ideal, stress-free venue for gatherings of any size.
How can Play It Again Sports add value beyond typical sporting goods stores for meetups? Unlike typical stores that simply sell new items, Play It Again Sports enhances meetups by creating a market experience that revolves around sharing, trading, and sustainable consumption. The focus on used gear invites customers to engage in discovery and negotiation, making shopping a more interactive and collective experience. The store's rewards program adds an extra layer of value, offering exclusive discounts, promotions, and events that groups can plan to attend for more in-store excitement. Plus, the expert guidance from staff who understand the nuances of sports equipment and fitting can turn a casual visit into an educational outing, where friends and families learn how to optimize their gear and performance. These features make Play It Again Sports more than a retail stop—it becomes a destination for building community, learning, and bonding over sports and fitness.
What makes Play It Again Sports a smart choice for families looking to build healthy habits together? For families, Play It Again Sports provides an affordable gateway to sports and fitness, enabling parents to outfit their children with the right gear at a fraction of new retail prices. This accessibility encourages kids and parents alike to engage in physical activities together, whether picking up a new sport or continuing a beloved one. The store’s focus on quality means families can trust that the equipment is safe and dependable, crucial for children's sports gear. Group visits to the store can serve as a fun, hands-on way to educate children about recycling, the value of used goods, and teamwork. By promoting a healthy, active lifestyle through accessible equipment and a community-oriented shopping experience, Play It Again Sports helps families cultivate lifelong wellness habits in a supportive environment.
In summary, Play It Again Sports offers a multifaceted environment ideal for group meetups, blending affordability, sustainability, and community spirit with a wide range of sports and fitness gear options. Whether you are a group of friends exploring new sports, a family looking to outfit everyone for active fun, or a team gearing up for the season, this store invites you to connect, trade, learn, and play—making every outing memorable and meaningful.