A Guide to Seattle Pick-up Games, For When You Feel Like Playing
There are plenty of no-strings-attached sports in Seattle that you can play on a drop-in basis.
By Seattle Mag May 23, 2011
In this entrepreneurial town, we like to do things on our own time and that includes being active. Whether there’s one last work project that can’t wait or The Bachelorette conflicts with your Monday night tennis league, having a weekly team sport commitment just doesn’t always jive with our free-spirit attitude. Perhaps that’s why Seattle has such a lively pick-up sports scene. From badminton to basketball, here’s your guide to getting sporty on the fly.
Volleyball
On a sunny day in Seattle, you’d think you had been transported to Huntington Beach if you’re at Alki Beach Park, Golden Gardens, or Juanita Beach Park. These are some of the premier sand courts near the city and there’s often a wait to play on a gorgeous day, so bring a book along with your bump, set, spike.
Soccer
Seattle is a soccer town and you can bet there’s a pick-up match going on somewhere as you read this. Seattle Soccer Club is always looking for pick-up players and they even have a Twitter account to keep players up to date on match whereabouts. Mercerdale Park in Mercer Island also offers a pick-up game every night from May to October at 7:00 p.m.
Basketball
While basketball is not as popular a sport here as soccer, it’s just as (or even more) competitive. Head to Denny Playfield basketball court (one of the very few full-sized courts downtown) for some lively ball from 5:00 p.m. on. Green Lake has always been a reliable location for some pick-up basketball, but if you go, don’t forget to bring your A game to play with some serious ballers.
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate (as it’s called by players) is one of those sports that will make you feel like a kid again. But don’t be fooled, it’s definitely not child’s play in Seattle as you’ll see impressive throws from dedicated players out rain or shine. Starting in June and lasting all summer, head to Volunteer Park (1400 E. Galer St.) on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. for an all-levels game.
Additional Resources
Check out Seattle Urban Sports on www.meetup.com for information on a variety of pick-up games from badminton to square dancing.
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