A monthly digest from Asphalt Green bringing you resources and news from the world of sports, fitness, and play.

VOL. 30 // OCTOBER 2026

SPORTS

MID-SEASON CHECK-IN AND GAME-CHANGING ATHLETES

WHY KIDS QUIT SPORTS, AND HOW TO KEEP THEM IN THE GAME 

As fall sports seasons hit their midpoint, this is often a defining moment in a young athlete’s journey. Some realize they’ve tried to take a leap too quickly, some are ready for a greater challenge, and some may realize they’d rather be playing a new sport entirely. In an era when 70% of kids drop out of sports by age 13, keeping program leaders, parents, and coaches prepared to support athletes can make all the difference. 

AGSC PLAYER OF THE YEAR NICOLE PATINO SPEAKS AT WOMEN IN SPORTS & LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

From a nine-year-old Asphalt Green Soccer Club recruit to one of the region’s top young soccer players, Nicole Patino's athletic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. This month, she represented AGSC at a panel celebrating girls and women in sports, sharing her experiences and the role soccer has played in her life.

COPING WITH THE STRESS OF BEING THE PARENT OF AN ATHLETE 

For parents of competitive athletes, stress is an inevitable part of the experience. U.S. soccer provides tips on how to cope. 

FITNESS 

LONGEVITY TRAINING & HIIT FOR ALL AGES

THE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO LONGEVITY TRAINING

Longevity training is one of the most cited fitness goals among adults today, but did you know certain exercises specifically support longevity? Check out our guide to add longevity training to your routine. 

BREAKING THE HIIT MYTH 

You don't need to be young to reap the benefits of HIIT. Harvard Health explains why high intensity interval training may be a good fit for older adults. 

PLAY

WATER SAFETY AND COMMUNITY AT RIVER EAST ELEMENTARY

CEO WALK AND TALK EPISODE 3: RIVER EAST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In the latest episode of our CEO Walk and Talk series, CEO Jordan Brackett visits River East Elementary School to see how one revitalized pool has transformed an entire community. Jordan and Andrew Bryan, Director of Citywide Aquatics Programs, explore the story behind the pool’s reopening, the impact of Wave Makers, and what greater pool access can mean for New York City. 

COMING UP

EVENTS & MORE

FOR KIDS

• October 3 // Columbia Football Youth Sports Day // Join the PS/IS 276 community for a day of youth sports activities, a chance to meet the Columbia Lions football players, and an exciting game against the Princeton Tigers. Get tickets.
• October 4 // Randall's Island Harvest Festival // Celebrate fall with a day of family-friendly outdoor fun, including face painting, a pumpkin patch, seasonal cooking demonstrations, and more. Learn more.
• October 4 // City of Forest Day // Join Big Reuse, Manhattan Borough President Office, and Asphalt Green in celebration of City of Forest Day! Get involved in growing a healthier urban canopy. Learn more and RSVP!
• October 12 // Play Days // Children ages 4-12 are invited to join us for our Fall Festive Play Day. Learn more.
• October 30 // Asphalt Screams // Our annual Halloween festival is back, and your family is invited for a frightfully good time. Get tickets.

FOR YOU

• October 1-15 // New-Member Sale // Join as an annual member and enjoy $0 Initiation, plus $75 in program credit. Become a member.

• October 20 // Winter Registration (Public) // Registration for winter sports, swim, and inclusive programs opens to the public. Browse classes.
• October 31 // Fall Term 2 Classes Begin // It's not too late to join us this fall. Browse sports, swim, and inclusive classes today!