Downtown Giants Youth Football League

When we lived in Madison, WI, my now 12 year old had discovered his love for football. Strangely enough, he, like his Dad, doesn’t follow football on television or sports magazines, but he loves playing the game. When the decision came about to move to New York City, my son had only one request: that I find a way that he could continue to play football.

A pretty simple request it may seem, except, this is New York City. It isn’t always easy to find a serious league for any sports, that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, and that doesn’t seem to hold practices smack in the middle of a work week. But I promised my son I would find something and I began my search for a Manhattan-based league the minute the last box was unpacked.

I came across a few leagues, but not one impressed me as much as the Downtown Giants. Their leagues start for kids as young as 5 (Peanut Division) and go as far up as age 14 (Midget). They also have a Cheerleading Squad, and are currently hosting a Wrestling Club for kids wanting to stay busy during the Winter break.

Coaches: Brian, Tim, Carl, and Cliff

My son has enjoyed being a part of the league since he started.  The one thing I dreaded about joining any sports activity (because we parents also join in a way with our children) was dealing with the “team parents”. I have to say that overall, more than not, the parents are very easy to talk to and get along with. The coaches are approachable and incredibly friendly with the kids…and the kids, whose families come from all walks of life, White, Black, Latinos,etc.,wealthy, middle-class, etc., are incredible well adjusted and have been so great to my son. A true representation of the face of New York.

I have met several great people and made some good friends, as has my son. It’s a lot of work. The schedule requires my son to practice 2-3 times a week in Pier 40 (West Village) and Battery Park area, and games are usually on Saturdays, sometimes requiring travel to other boroughs to play against other leagues.  But he loves it and never complains, even when it rains.

The league currently has open registration for Flag Football as a way to keep the kids moving, active, in the game, and in training until the season starts up again.  If your child has never played the game before, this is a perfect time to introduce him/her to it.  The non-tackle aspect of Flag Football allows for the child to focus on the rules and strategy of the game without the concern of getting hit or pushed around.

It is a true gem for the active, sports loving kid.

Visit their site for more information on costs, ongoing registrations, team ages and requirements, and more.

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