When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
ZogSports
Why ZogSports is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
ZogSports is a highly popular adult co-ed social sports league that combines recreational play with meaningful community engagement and charitable giving. Founded in 2002 by Robert Herzog, after his experience during the September 11 attacks, ZogSports was created to foster real human connections through organized team sports while promoting altruism. Operating in major cities like New York City, New Jersey, Washington, DC, Atlanta, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, ZogSports offers a broad variety of weekly sports activities including basketball, bocce, bowling, cornhole, dodgeball, football, floor hockey, kickball, skeeball, soccer, softball, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and wiffle ball.
Players join in a welcoming, co-ed environment that emphasizes fun, fitness, and socializing. Beyond just sports, ZogSports' unique mission integrates charitable donations with every league season, awarding funds to charities chosen by the winning teams. This commitment has resulted in over $2.6 million given to charity since inception, making it a meaningful way to play. The league’s inclusive atmosphere and well-organized play schedule make it a great place to meet and bond with friends or coworkers, build new friendships, and strengthen community ties. ZogSports is known for creating a vibrant, caring community where adult players can enjoy competitive sports and social events that fit busy lifestyles while giving back to worthy causes.
Here's what people think of ZogSports
As of recent, ZogSports holds a 4.1-star rating based on 287 reviews.
User reviews of ZogSports generally praise the league for its unique blend of social, recreational, and charitable values. Many participants appreciate the opportunity to meet new people and form friendships in a fun and inclusive environment that emphasizes co-ed participation and teamwork. Positive reviews highlight the variety of sports offered, the well-managed game schedules, and the overall welcoming community spirit. Players often commend the balance between competitiveness and casual, enjoyable play that encourages both fitness and social interaction.
However, some negative reviews have focused on issues related to customer service and organizational policies. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, dissatisfaction arose when the company retained payments for seasons that were canceled or postponed, leading to complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau. Some users also mention occasional scheduling conflicts and the difficulty of finding consistent game times. Despite these drawbacks, many players continue to value the charitable mission and social opportunities ZogSports provides.
In conclusion, the reviews suggest that while ZogSports is highly regarded for fostering community and fun through sports, potential participants should be aware of past customer service challenges. Overall, ZogSports remains a top choice for adults looking to stay active, support charities, and build connections through co-ed sports leagues.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Barrie Luongo
In one league I ended up getting money back because of a class action lawsuit. Zog didn't provide referees so players had to do the work instead of playing, which was standard across leagues in my experience, well beyond what is outlined in the regulations. Typically they don't hire enough refs so games start late if they're played at all, in addition to making players officiate in games they should be playing. They also canceled leagues/entire sports and refused to provide refunds. Super shady. Don't waste your money!
John McGinn
I signed up for a softball league. It's been 8 weeks and we still haven't played a single game. We haven't even received team shirts. Absolutely no one who works there has been any help whatsoever and are solely concerned with keeping their money we already paid. If it was up to me, they would be recognized as a terror organization.
Lexie Forsell
They took a full payment of $1800 then shut down because of COVID. Said no refunds, which was fine back then and let them hold onto it. It's been 5yrs so thought we'd ask again since things are up and running and credit doesn't expire, but Kendra the VP just replied "Unfortunately, we are still not able to make refunds. Thanks," No other explanations, no apologies. Nothing.
Tim Hartnett
The ZogSports volleyball league has been a blast! The games strike the perfect balance between competitive and laid-back, with a super friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The organizers and refs, especially Francis, go above and beyond to make sure everyone enjoys themselves. It’s also a fantastic way for companies or teams to bond outside the office. Whether you’re looking to stay active or boost team camaraderie, this league is the perfect fit!
Deanna Coll
Zog is such a fun affordable way to meet people through sports. I played beach volleyball on Pier 25 and I’ve also played indoor court. Can’t recommend beach enough it was so much fun and I can’t wait to hang with everyone I met outside of the weekly games. Whether you’re competitive or just playing for fun there’s a team for you!
How to reach ZogSports
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Why ZogSports may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at ZogSports is one of the best ways to spark fun, connection, and active engagement all at once. Unlike typical social venues, ZogSports offers a unique blend of social sports leagues that encourage not just teamwork and friendly competition, but genuine camaraderie in a lively, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you are looking to catch up while being active or want to build memories through shared experiences, ZogSports creates the perfect environment for bonding. The leagues are designed to foster real personal connections by blending fun, fitness, and friendship in a way that’s accessible to all skill levels. Here, the emphasis is not on being the best athlete but on enjoying the moment and the people you’re with. Hosting a meetup at ZogSports transforms ordinary socializing into an energizing, joyful event that everyone will remember. Plus, with locations in vibrant cities, it is easily reachable, making it convenient to gather your group and dive into a weeknight game or weekend tournament. Whether you want a casual outing or a spirited competition, this place has everything you need to delight your friends and family while staying active together.
What activities are available at ZogSports?
ZogSports specializes in coed social sports leagues tailored to adults and companies, offering a diverse range of sports that suit different interests and fitness levels. Their main offerings include popular team sports such as soccer, volleyball, softball, basketball, and kickball. These leagues emphasize a fun, social environment rather than intense competition, inviting players of all backgrounds to join regardless of athletic experience. Beyond the classic sports, ZogSports also hosts special events and tournaments that can add variety and excitement to your group meetups. These activities often include themed games, playoffs, and championships, providing a structured yet enjoyable experience. Their leagues run regularly across multiple cities, making it easy to find something nearby. Each sport is organized with built-in social elements like happy hours and post-game celebrations, which further promote mingling and relaxation after physical activity. This blend of structured play and social time makes it a well-rounded choice for groups wanting both recreation and relationship-building.
Why is ZogSports perfect for a group meetup?
ZogSports is tailor-made for groups for several compelling reasons. First, the coed team structure encourages diversity and inclusion, making sure everyone feels welcome and engaged. This unique aspect helps break the ice among new acquaintances or reconnect friends in a fun, low-pressure setting. Second, the leagues have flexible schedules, often meeting once or twice a week during evenings and weekends, which fits perfectly into busy lifestyles. This flexibility allows groups to coordinate their attendance without excessive strain on personal calendars. Third, the friendly and supportive community created by ZogSports staff ensures a positive atmosphere where fun and sportsmanship come first. Additionally, each league concludes with a social gathering where participants can relax, share laughs, and strengthen bonds, turning a simple game into a memorable social event. The environment encourages play for all skill levels, ensuring your group can enjoy themselves regardless of sports experience. Finally, the health benefits of playing sports together—improved fitness, stress relief, and energized moods—add meaningful value to the social experience, making your meetup not only enjoyable but enriching.
How does ZogSports foster community and connection?
At ZogSports, the mission goes beyond just playing games—it’s about building a caring community where players genuinely connect. The leagues are designed to bring people together from different backgrounds in a way that encourages real interactions and friendships. By focusing on coed teams and social activities following each game, ZogSports cultivates an atmosphere where players cheer each other on, collaborate, and celebrate together. The league organizers emphasize inclusivity and good sportsmanship as core values, ensuring that everyone feels respected and appreciated. This culture attracts people who want more than just exercise—those seeking a sense of belonging and shared joy. Moreover, regular participants often find lasting friendships through the network ZogSports creates, as events and games repeat weekly. The sense of routine combined with social opportunities makes it easy to stay connected beyond the playing field, whether through socials, charity events, or off-field meetups. All these elements make ZogSports a thriving community hub.
What makes playing at ZogSports convenient and accessible?
One of the key advantages of ZogSports is its convenient location in bustling urban centers, such as New York City, where many participants live and work. The venues are carefully selected for accessibility, often close to public transportation and city hubs, making it easy for your group to meet without long commutes. ZogSports also offers an easy online registration system that allows teams and individuals to sign up for leagues quickly and with minimal hassle. Their customer support team is responsive and helpful, ready to assist with questions or concerns before and during your season. The leagues operate at various times throughout the week, including evenings and weekends, accommodating different schedules perfectly. Importantly, ZogSports leagues are designed to be affordable, with reasonable fees that cover game referees, venue rental, and social events, making them an attractive option compared to other recreational activities. Altogether, this accessibility makes hosting a meetup here not only enjoyable but straightforward and stress-free for organizers and participants alike.
How does ZogSports ensure safety and fun for all participants?
ZogSports maintains a strong reputation for creating a safe, supportive environment where players can focus on fun and connection without worry. This starts with clear league rules and regulations that promote respectful play and inclusivity. The organization enforces a code of conduct to minimize conflicts and harassment, ensuring all participants feel comfortable on and off the field. Experienced referees oversee games to maintain fairness and safety throughout play. Additionally, the venues used for leagues meet high standards for cleanliness and suitability, often offering indoor and outdoor options depending on the sport and location. In times of health concerns, such as pandemics, ZogSports has also implemented measures to safeguard players through updated protocols aligned with public health guidelines. These steps reinforce participants’ confidence that their well-being is prioritized. By balancing competitive spirit with a focus on positive experiences, ZogSports expertly crafts a space where enjoyment and safety coexist, making it an ideal choice for hosting group sports meetups.
What social opportunities does ZogSports offer outside of the game?
Beyond the action on the field, ZogSports excels at creating social opportunities that extend the fun and foster community spirit. After each game, teams typically gather for social hours, often hosted at nearby bars or casual venues where players can unwind, share stories, and celebrate wins or laugh off losses together. These socials provide a relaxed setting to deepen friendships and network with other players, adding valuable social layers to the athletic experience. Occasionally, ZogSports organizes special events like themed parties, award nights, and charity fundraisers that invite all league members to participate beyond just playing. These events cultivate strong ties among participants by mixing recreation with social causes and entertainment. For groups meeting at ZogSports, these built-in social highlights are key for turning a sports night into a memorable outing filled with laughter, connection, and new friendships. This comprehensive social approach distinguishes ZogSports as more than a sports league—it is a vibrant social community.
How do ZogSports leagues balance competition and inclusivity?
ZogSports leagues strike a thoughtful balance between fostering healthy competition and ensuring inclusivity, which is central to their appeal as a meetup destination. While games are competitive enough to be exciting, the focus remains on enjoyment, sportsmanship, and socializing rather than intense rivalry. Team rosters are often balanced to mix skill levels, allowing beginners to participate confidently alongside more experienced players without feeling overwhelmed. The coed teams further promote inclusivity by encouraging gender diversity and teamwork. This approach reduces pressure and helps players focus on having fun with friends rather than performing at a high athletic level. ZogSports often provides practice or skill development opportunities to support newer players, which enhances accessibility. By prioritizing a welcoming environment, ZogSports removes common barriers found in traditional leagues, making every group member feel valued. This thoughtful competition inclusivity model keeps everyone motivated and engaged across the season.
What are customer reviews saying about ZogSports?
Customer reviews for ZogSports reflect a generally positive experience, highlighting the community atmosphere, diverse sport options, and organizational professionalism. Participants often praise the quality of the leagues, noting how well-run and enjoyable the games are. Returning players appreciate the focus on social connection that goes beyond typical sports leagues, mentioning the fun post-game socials and welcoming environment. Many reviews highlight how ZogSports helped them meet new people and build lasting friendships while staying active. The 4.1-star rating from nearly 300 reviews indicates strong overall satisfaction, though some users note occasional organizational challenges or preference differences in competitiveness, which is normal for a league of this scale. Employees also report that the company values reliability and maturity, which translates into a well-managed player experience. This positive feedback underscores ZogSports as a dependable and enjoyable option for group meetups centered on fun sports and friendship.
How can you get started with your group at ZogSports?
Getting started with your group at ZogSports is simple and straightforward. The first step is to visit their official website where you can find information about leagues in your city and the sports currently offered. You can either register your entire team if you have one or sign up as an individual and get placed on a team to meet new people. The online system is user-friendly and allows you to pick schedules that fit your group's availability. After registration, you get access to season schedules, venue locations, and league rules to prepare your group for the games. ZogSports also has a helpful customer service team ready to answer any questions or assist with special requests. To maximize the experience, consider encouraging your friends to commit together to create a consistent, supportive team, and take advantage of the social hours organized after games. This easy onboarding puts you on track quickly so you can focus on enjoying your time with friends and making new connections.
What makes ZogSports a leader in social sports leagues?
ZogSports stands out as a leader in social sports leagues due to its deep commitment to fostering connection, inclusivity, and fun, setting it apart from traditional recreational leagues. It was one of the pioneers in creating coed sports leagues that prioritize social interaction as much as athletic participation. Their comprehensive approach integrates competitive play, social activities, and community service to create well-rounded leagues. Attention to detail in organizing schedules, balancing teams, and ensuring player safety has earned trust from thousands of participants. The supportive company culture extends from employees to players, reflecting in the smooth operations and welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, ZogSports continuously innovates by expanding into new cities and offering fresh events to keep the experience exciting. This leadership is recognized by both participants and industry observers, making ZogSports a model for how sports leagues can enrich social lives while promoting health, teamwork, and lifelong friendships.