Sundays are for fútbol! Warmer weather welcomed countless leagues back to Flushing Meadows Park, the epicenter of New York City’s grass roots soccer community. Thousands filled the eight full-sized fields and countless spaces in between where local leagues set up their own goals. Some leagues have been playing for a few weeks already, like Dino Dominguez’s Liga Estudantíl. Others kicked off on April 23rd for the first time this year, including Liga Ídolos de América on Field 7.
The festivities start with league leader Margarida Guilarte saying a prayer for the league, followed by trophies presented for Best Team Reína, Best Kit (as each team must present themselves ready and in their new uniforms), and much more. It drums up excitement for the season ahead and gives rivals and teammates alike a chance to celebrate together before diving into the weekly playing schedules.
Liga Ídolos was founded nearly 40 years ago by Margarida’s father, Don Jaime Guilarte. Though he passed away in 2007, Margarida honors her father’s passion for the sport and their community by not just continuing his league but helping it grow. His presence was right there in the form of a prominent portrait next to the trophies.
Las Pioneras de Fútbol Femenino joined Margarida to celebrate the second year of their league as well, the first all female soccer league in Flushing in over a decade. Leagues supporting leagues, helping fútbol continue to florecer.
The first match of the season was a firecracker of a game, with Jiquilísco FC coming back from a goal down to win. Meanwhile vendors sold fruit, water, tamales and more, grills perfumed the air with savoriness and players arrived for the next game. Come watch Liga Ídolos every Sunday until winter arrives on Field 7.
