Team Sports Events Can Contribute to a Stronger, More Supportive Neighborhood and Community

 

Team sports events organized by neighbors can play a significant role in strengthening a community by fostering connection, cooperation, and a sense of belonging. 

The ultimate example might be SGF Kickball, which gained attention beyond Springfield. It was recently selected for the “Best Neighborhood Program” award by Neighborhoods USA. NUSA is a national group that has been celebrating great community programs for over 50 years.

Just being named one of the top nominees in the country is a big deal for a volunteer-led program that started as a simple challenge between friends. Other cities with finalist programs in 2025 included Pasadena, California, Waco, Texas, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, St. Louis, Missouri, Monrovia, California, Anna, Texas, El Paso, Texas, Chandler, Arizona, Muncie, Indiana and St. Petersburg, Florida.

A Fun Idea That Took Off

The idea for SGF Kickball began with two friends—Bobbi Ream and Kevin Evans—talking about how to help their neighborhoods connect better. (There might also have been a few friendly barbs about whose neighborhood was better).

Bobbi challenged Kevin and his neighborhood to a friendly game of kickball. That challenge turned into something much bigger than either of them imagined.

What started as a simple game has grown into an annual tournament supported by the Springfield-Greene County Parks and dozens of volunteers. There is a board that meets year-long to plan the tournament and ways to improve the effort.

As Ed Goeke, the current chair of SGF Kickball, puts it: “It started with a kick and became a community movement.”

Now, the SGF Kickball Tournament happens once a year in the spring. The 2025 event took place on Sunday, May 4 at Meador Park Sports Complex with 282 people in attendance.

Twelve teams registered but after the tournament was rescheduled due to rain only 10 were able to participate. Each team is made up of 11 players. What makes this tournament special is that teams are a mix of kids ages 8 to 13, older students, and adults. This blend creates a family-friendly atmosphere while still keeping the games exciting and competitive.

While the tournament is fun and exciting, its true purpose is about getting neighbors to interact in positive ways. In today’s busy world, it’s easy to go days—or even weeks—without really talking to the people who live next door.

SGF Kickball helps bring people outside. It creates teams that include people of all ages. It gives neighbors a reason to cheer each other on, share snacks, and have real conversations. And it makes everyone feel like they’re part of something bigger.

“We’re not just playing kickball,” Ed explains. “We’re building neighborhoods. Every time a team is formed, a community grows stronger.”

How Team Events Connect Neighbors

Here are a few ways that team sports events organized by neighbors can contribute a significant role in strengthening a community. 

1. Building Relationships: These events provide an opportunity for people to interact in a fun, low-pressure setting, breaking down social barriers and helping neighbors get to know one another better. This builds trust and creates lasting friendships.

2. Encouraging Collaboration: Organizing and participating in team sports requires cooperation, communication, and problem-solving. Working together towards a common goal helps develop teamwork and a spirit of mutual support within the community.

3. Promoting Inclusion: Community sports events often welcome participants of all ages and skill levels, creating a more inclusive environment. This ensures that everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels involved and valued.

4. Creating a Sense of Belonging: As neighbors participate in these events, they develop a collective identity and a sense of pride in their community. This can make people feel more invested in their neighborhood and motivated to care for it.

5. Improving Health and Well-being: Physical activity is a key aspect of team sports, and it helps improve both physical and mental health. A healthier community is a more vibrant and resilient one.

6. Fostering a Positive Environment: These events can help to build a positive, active atmosphere in the neighborhood, providing a constructive outlet for energy and reducing the likelihood of social isolation or conflict.

7. Creating Traditions: Regularly scheduled sports events can become a beloved tradition, creating memories and a long-term connection among neighbors, while also providing something to look forward to year after year.

Ultimately, team sports events contribute to a stronger, more cohesive, and supportive community.

 

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com.



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