The Zog Blog

We're In amNew York!

2009-04-03T08:57:00.001-07:00

Check Us out in the April 3, 2009 issue!

Announcing Summer Leagues!

2009-03-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

Sure, Spring is just starting, but that doesn't mean it's too early to think about what you'll be playing this Summer!

Registration will begin April 15 in two rounds - mark your calendars!

Round 1: Early Registration 4/15-24 / Late Registration 4/25-5/8

Whiffleball - Manhattan (Weeknight & Weekend), Queens
Kickball - Manhattan (Uptown; Playground; Sunday), Brooklyn

Round 2: Early Registration 4/27-5/6 / Late Registration 5/7-15

Touch Football - Manhattan (Sunday)
Touch Rugby - Manhattan (Sunday)
Outdoor Soccer - Manhattan (Weeknight & Sunday), Brooklyn (Weekend - Full field)
Outdoor Basketball - Manhattan (Weeknight & Weekend)

Check Out Indoor Soccer!

2009-03-05T11:23:00.000-08:00

Love Indoor Soccer? Are you an Outdoor Soccer fan that wants to see what the game's like inside? Check out a video of our awesome Indoor Soccer league, then see below for how to join us this spring!

Still room in our Weekend Indoor Soccer league! Click Here for more info: http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/255

Video of ZogSports Dodgeball!

2009-03-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

Thinking about Playing Dodgeball with ZogSports? Check out this Awesome Video from the Current Season.

There's still a FEW spots left in Manhattan Weeknight Dodgeball - sign up today to make sure you get a spot in the league! (http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/251)

Check Out our Sports Conditioning Classes (and Sign Up for March 2009)

2009-03-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Ready to Train Hard? Good, because that's exactly what you'll do in our March 2009 Sports Conditioning Classes!

Check out this clip below from the last series to see what it's all about: drills, sprints, lots of strength training, and a super-supportive group of Zoggers cheering for each other!

Ready to Join us? You'll choose your day (Tuesday or Thursday) as well as time slot (1 hour classes, starting at 7:15pm).

Classes begin March 3, but those who join us after can get a pro-rated fee (if joining later, email info@zogsports.org before paying).

To get more info and sign up, visit: http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/270

Can't Make a Spring Leagues Decision? Don't Have To!

2009-02-04T08:03:00.000-08:00

Can't Pick Just One Spring League? Here at Zog we Understand your Indecisiveness. That's Why we Created the Very First Sports Sampler. Try Your Hand at Dodgeball, Indoor Soccer, Basketball AND Volleyball! Allow us to Explain.

WHAT: Each team (suggested roster size: 12) will have 7 weeks of games. Teams will play Indoor Soccer twice, Dodgeball twice, Basketball twice, and Volleyball once. For Basketball teams will split into an A and B squad.

STANDINGS: Points will be awarded for each game played in each sport and are weighted as follows:

• Indoor Soccer – 12 points for a win, 6 for a loss and 0 for a forfeit (24 total possible)

• Dodgeball – 4 points for every win, 2 for a tie (32 total possible)

• Basketball – 2 points for every win, 1 for a tie (A or B squad) (32 total possible)

• Volleyball – 5 points for every win. (15 total possible)

WHEN: The regular season will start the weekend of March 28 or April 4. The league runs on Saturday afternoons 12-6PM and Sunday afternoons/evenings 12-10PM. Teams will play once a week. There will be no games easter weekend, memorial day weekend or Mothers day.

ON SALE: Sports Sampler goes on Sale February 9 and Space is Limited! Sign Up Soon! Click Here for More Details!

A Weekend of Skiing, Boarding, Partying in Stowe, VT

2009-01-28T15:05:00.000-08:00

Zoggers hit the slopes, the apres-ski, and the Rusty Nail bar last weekend in Stowe, VT. We had some great snow and some great times! Check out the pictures below for proof!

Want to get in on the fun? More ski trips are still on sale:

Stowe, VT - March 13-15
Week Trip to Whitefish, Montana - February 26-March 3
Day Trips to Windham Mountain - February 7 / March 7

Hunter Mountain Party at Overlook!

2009-01-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

Hey! You noticed it's snowing outside, right? Time to lug those skis or snowboard out of storage and head to the slopes!

Are you excited for this weekend's Saturday, January 17 ZogSports trip to Hunter Mountain (if you haven't signed up already there's still room: http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/220)?

Get even more pumped up at the Hunter Mountain Party at Overlook Lounge!

What: Hunter Mountain will have representatives at overlook to be a part of a special event featuring lift ticket and t-shirt giveaways, a trivia contest, and drink specials
When: Tonight! Thursday, January 15; from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM.
Where: Overlook (255 E. 44th St. btwn 2nd and 3rd Aves)

FREE Big Lift Cards will be given to all attendees that evening. This is a Hunter-specific product that can be presented at ticketing locations prior to purchase (may only be used once per day, valid every day of the year) and will offer:

25% discount on price of lift ticket on weekends and holidays
50% discount on midweek lift ticket

Get more details on this event, as well as all upcoming Overlook events here: http://www.overlooknyc.com/events.html

First Ever Touch Football Classic

2008-12-08T08:05:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, Zog held its first ever Touch Football Classic, a full-day tournament with 32 football teams on Randall's Island's awesome turf fields. It was chilly day, but teams braved the cold to play up to 6 games! Everyone was then invited to Saloon for some post-game happy hour fun!

Congratulations to the winning teams: Gridiron Girls and Earmuffs! Both teams won a donation to their favorite charity.

Pictures from the day are below. If you have pics of your own, please send them to info@zogsports.org.

Snow Division winners, Gridiron Girls, pose with their winners check to be donated to their favorite charity.

Ice Division winners, Earmuffs, relax in their tent in between games.

Checking out the scores.

Post-tourney happy hour at Saloon

Randall's Island Sports Foundation Gala

2008-11-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

The full-time Zoggers hit the Plaza Monday, November 24 to help the Randall's Island Sports Foundation (RISF) celebrate their Champions for Children Gala.

ZogSports proudly supports the work of the foundation and was thrilled to be there to tout all the hard work they do. Honorees included Kristine Lilly (two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and World Cup Champion), Susan Patricof (founder of the Susan Patricof Head Start Center in Harlem), and Wendy Paulson (chair of RARE and a Trustee of the Cornell Labratory of Ornithology).

Awards were presented by Senator Hilary Rodham Clinton, tennis legend, Billie Jean King, and John Flicker (President of the National Audubon Society). Mayor Bloomberg also spoke.

To find out more about the RISF, visit risf.org. The foundation is constantly looking for volunteers to help with their myriad programs, so check ZogSports' Philanthropy pages for updates, or email alyssa@zogsports.org to ask directly how you can get involved.

Check out our pictures from the big event!

Senator Clinton holds court. Susan Patricof is to her left.

Zog VP of Ops Christie MacKinnon and longtime Zogger Miriam Droller pose with Clinton.

Christie and Miriam pose with Secretary of the Treasury, Henry Paulson, to express their ideas for solving the economic crisis via intramural sports.

Billie Jean King presenting.

Darryl Hammond was introduced as McCain. Then he did his Bill Clinton impression.

ZogSportsNJ's commander-in-chief, Chris Corbin, sneaks into a picture with Hillary. So slick she doesn't even notice!

First Lady of ZogSportsNJ, Maggie Wedemeyer, with former First Lady of the Nation, Hillary Clinton.

Mayor Mike is presented with two giant, colorful sneakers by children from the RISF.

Kelsey Grammer stopped by the Rose Bar after the gala. We hear he's looking to join a Players-level Zog Dodgeball team.

Queens End-of-Season Party Pics!

2008-11-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

The Queens Fall 08 End-of-Season Party at Lucky Mojo's in Long Island City was a blast! Awards were given out to all winning Dodgeball and Touch Football teams.

Check out photos from the party below.

ZogSports Halloween Party 2008!

2008-10-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

ZogSports threw our awesome annual Halloween Party last night at Porky's and more than 200 Zoggers attended in full costume. Were you one of them? Check below to see if your photo made the blog! Missed out on the fun? See what you have to look forward to next Halloween.

Special thanks to the folks at the awesome non-profit Street Project for partnering with us for the event. A portion of the proceeds from the evening went towards their cause of finding volunteer opportunities for young professionals.

Do you have pictures from the party? Send them to info@zogsports.org!

Wine Tasting, Pumpking Picking Photos!

2008-10-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, October 25, we took two buses full of Zoggers to the North Fork of Long Island for some wine tasting, hayrides, and pumpkin picking.

Check out the photos below. Want to join in the trip-going fun? Register for one of our awesome upcoming ski trips (see all trips here: http://www.zogsports.org/activity_list/ski_trips)

Wine Tasting Trip Photos

2008-10-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, a great crew of Zoggers took a trip to Long Island's North Fork for some wine tasting, an outdoor lunch, a group hayride, and pumpkin picking. Scroll through for some great images from the trip (and if you attended and have more pics, send them on!).

Want to get in on the fun? There are a few spots left for men on the October 25th trip (it's sold out for women). Click Here to join in the fun!

Check out what one of our trip-goers had to say about the day of fun by clicking here! Here are a few of the great photos she took:

Hiking and Microbrew Fest Photos!

2008-10-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

On September 27, we took a busload of Zoggers up to Hunter Mountain for an awesome day of hiking and hanging at the Microbrew festival. We took a gorgeous SkyRide to the top of the mountain, embarked on a great hike to the firetower at the peak, and then headed back to the base to enjoy some delicious microbrews, sample some fantastic wines, and enjoy great eats outdoors.

Here are some shots from our awesome day!

The view from the SkyRide as we headed to the top.

Zoggers enjoying the ride.

The fall foliage was gorgeous!

z
Zoggers enjoy some of the microbrews outside at the festival.

Want to get in on the fun? We've got a pair of Wine Tasting trips on October 11 and October 25 - click here to sign up today!

Rock the Vote with ZogSports

2008-09-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Part of ZogSports' mission is to encourage New Yorkers to maintain perspective and a balanced lifestyle by having fun while also giving something back to the community. One of the most effective ways to influence your community is through voting - it's the best way to have a say in what goes on in your neighborhood and in communities across the country.

With the presidential election fast approaching, ZogSports wants to help our participants ensure their voices are heard, by giving them a quick and easy way to register to vote (via the renowned, non-partisan organization, Rock the Vote).

To register or update your information, simply click the image below and you'll be directed through the process. No information will be shared with any third parties.

On this form, you can:
- Register as a first-time voter
- Change your address
- Change your name
- Change your political party

Click this Image:

ZogSports and CityChase (Part 2)!

2008-09-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

ZogSports and CityChase (Part 1)

2008-09-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

ZogSports was a proud partner of CityChase, the world's largest Urban Adventure Series, when it hit New York this Saturday, September 13.

We had our very own ChasePoint which was held on one of our whiffleball/kickball courts in Stuyvesant Town.

Chase Participants arrived at the course and were given their first assignment: go out and find a pair of strangers who agree to put on ZogSports t-shirts and compete against them in an obstacle course. The course included dizzy bat, dodgeball, volleyball, a football throw, and Gatorade flip cup and was staffed by volunteers from the amazing organization, Urban Dove (http://www.urbandove.org/).

Check out the pictures below (more to come tomorrow)!

Dine and Donate - October 1

2008-09-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

ZogSports participant Mary Brower is hosting an event to help raise money for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Applebees Restaurant is hosting the event, and all attendees who bring a printed out invite (below) will automatically be donating 10% of their total bill (minus alcohol, tax & tip) to fight Breast Cancer.

Can’t make the event? You can still donate to the cause here: http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk2008/NewYork?px=1307873&pg=personal&fr_id=1660&s_tafId=283184

When: Wednesday, October 1, anytime of day (takeout as well)
Where: Applebees Restaurant, 102 North End Ave, Battery Park City
How: Print out the invite below and remember to hand it in to make sure 10% of your bill is donated.

Fall Kickoff and Shirt Donation Party Pics

2008-09-08T12:16:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 3, ZogSports held a Fall Kickoff and Shirt Donation party to celebrate the start of the Fall 2008 season, give new and old participants a chance to meet and hang, and collect gently used ZogSports shirts to donate to Mission International Rescue Charities.

We donated 150+ shirts that will be distributed to the non-profit organization, which works to supply the Dominican Republic’s most marginalized people with a variety of life-altering services. Our shirts will be given to a number of worthy programs including a vocational school and a camp for HIV-positive children. Proceeds from the door were used to ship the shirts, and overflow was given to the charity as a donation.

Check out our photos from the evening and keep checking our website for details on upcoming events!

We packed the place!

Our Volunteer Team helped sort shirts by color. (To join the team, email alyssa@zogsports.org)

Ref extraordinaire, Darnell, donates some shirts to the cause.

A Zogger makes an orange shirt donation.

Some Zoggers, like Sandie, had more shirts to donate than others!

Hope to see you at the next party!!

Zog Football Season is Coming... Are You Ready??

2008-08-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

Zog's All-Female Team, Girl Play, Practices Before a Game.

Calling All ZogSports Female Touch Football Participants:

Fall Football Starts in a Few Weeks - Are You Ready??

Brush Up on Your Skills, Learn New Ones, and the Basics, at our First Ever Women-Only Pre-Season Touch Football Clinic!

When: September 5, 6:30pm-10pm
Where: On-the-field training takes place at Roosevelt Island's Octagon Field (just a quick trip on the F train!); Chalk Talk and happy hour will take place at a bar TBD.
Who: New and returning Zog female Touch Football players looking to learn the basics and brush up on their skills.
How: Visit http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/201 to Learn More and Sign Up!

Spots are Extremely Limited for the Clinic so Sign Up Soon!

Let's Sample Some Vino!

2008-08-12T13:01:00.001-07:00

This weekend, we took two busloads of Zoggers out to the North Fork of Long Island to sample some delicious wine and socialize with each other. Check out the pics from our fun excursion!

Surf's Up for a Second Time!

2008-07-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

We just couldn't resist heading back out for a second surf trip this summer! Check out these great pics from the excursion.

First you learn rules and technique on the sand...

Then you grab your boards and head for the water!

Zoggers fighting through the current!

Leave it to Zoggers to invent a new version of "beer" (er, Jameson) pong we'd ever seen at the post-surf happy hour.

There is some VERY intense air hockey going on behind the ping pong table.

Everybody's Gone Surfing!

2008-07-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

ZogSports led its first ever Surf Trip this Summer and it was a blast!

Check out these pics of Zoggers heading into the surf and hanging on the beach.

Hanging out on the bus ride home.

After a long day of surfing, enjoying the bus ride back to NYC.

Wine Tasting Trip Continued!

2008-07-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

More pics from the first Wine Tasting Trip of the season!

This this looks fun? Join us August 9 for our second Wine Tasting trip of the season!

A taste for everyone!

Leader Suzanne pours some wine for the Zoggers.

More limbo action!

Our trip leader Becca captioned this photo "defeat" on Facebook. We think the caption is perfect just like that.

First Wine Tasting Trip of the Summer Season!

2008-07-21T13:30:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, two busloads of Zoggers headed out to the North Fork of Long Island for some wine tasting, impromptu boys vs. girls kickball, and apparently some limbo! Check out the pics below. More to come...

Limbo at the vineyard

Fearless leader Suzanne takes a shot at limbo

Girls vs Boys Kickball

Suzanne and Becca, trip leaders extraordinaire!

stayed tuned for more pics coming soon...

were you on the trip? send us your photos and we'll post them!

New Photos, New Location!

2008-07-09T13:37:00.000-07:00

Hey Zoggers!

The ZogBlog is moving on up in the world: we're now being hosted on the official ZogSports Website! About darn time, right?

In our fancy new digs, we promise to update way more frequently with news and pictures so keep on sending us photos of your team during and after games, and of course at happy hour! Have a great story from a game or happy hour? Send that too!

So let's get this thing started right with pics from our Spring 2008 leagues.

Five Year-Olds with Sticks, Spring Dodgeball, Division Champs

That's What She Said, Spring Dodgeball, Best Team Name Winner

Offside Story, Spring Outdoor Soccer

Snafus, Spring Volleyball

Trailer Park Ninjas, Spring Brooklyn Football, Players Champs

We Mean Business, Spring Volleyball, Casual Champs

Photos!

2008-03-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a little while since we updated the photos on the blog, so here are a ton of great ones we were recently sent. Enjoy!

Fighting Ringworm - Fall 07 Manhattan Touch Football Division Champs

Van Buren Boys Manhattan Dodgeball Division Champs

Balled Eagles Manhattan Winter Dodgeball Team

Balled Eagles Are Multi-Talented: They Are Also a "Rock Band"

Don't Hassle The Hoff, Casual Champs Manhattan Dodgeball

Running of the Balls Dodgeball Team

Flying Pink Snowponies of Death & Destruction, Manhattan Football Ex Casual Champs

Williamsburg Dodgeball's Ball Busters

Motorboaters Raise Anchor, Pull "Aweigh" with Victory

2008-02-19T14:51:00.001-08:00

The Hoboken Motorboaters regained their dominate form last night at the Boys & Girls club in Hoboken, NJ. Coming off a sinking performance in there last game where they looked lost and adrift at sea, some questioned whether this team had the resolve to steer their way back to the top of the standings.

Well the gutsy squad answered the bell big time! Despite the fact that the Motorboaters were missing several of their "big guns" they came out with a fresh attitude and blazing confidence. Hustle, intensity, and pride was bursting from deep within their beings as they immediately raced to their first win of the night. Every member displayed the heart and courage of a true champion, and the grit to battle through the most rigorous night of competition yet.

Several keys plays were made by "Mercedes Mike" who once again was at the helm leading his team to victory. It should be pointed out though that he clearly was built for speed and not the long haul, as he tired quickly in the faster paced games this week! The Motorboaters also welcomed "Coco Puffs" Cokines back into action after missing the last game. His 6'5" - 220lb - laser rocket arm was a huge plus, especially with his father playing on one of the other teams the Motorboaters faced.

Finally, the moment of the night came in the third contest of the evening. The Motorboaters were down to their final player going up against an entire team single handily. It looked dire for Jason "The Glove" Mammen at this point, but that's when he proved his nickname catching 3 balls in a row including a lunging effort, as well as making to kills including the game winning knockout. It was a comeback of epic proportions that will endure the test of time live on in historic dodge ball legend. The heroic finish electrified the entire gymnasium, and most notably the Motorboaters themselves who fed off the energy to dominate their remaining games.

After finishing the night 4-0 the Motorboaters sit at 11-5 in the standings and the question remains... is this team for real? Can they continue to play great and make a run for the championship? Or are they simply a good team that shows signs of greatness, but is marred by inconstancy week to week. We certainly look forward to finding out at next weeks crucial matches!

Story posted by Jason Mammen

Zog NJ Football Action is Heating Up!

2008-02-12T09:38:00.000-08:00

Teams Lean & Mean (Blue) and XanaZooDogs (Yellow)

With temperatures outside blistering cold... the action inside the Meadowlands Bubble is HEATING UP!!! With mid-season byes this week, the playoff picture in all three divisions is starting to sort itself out.

In the THRILLER division two teams have raced out to the head of the pack. The Playahs & Seeing Red have both been impressive in their 3-0 starts. The two are set for showdown of the unbeatens assuming Seeing Red can survive a tough test against the High School Heroes. With only 4 teams making the playoffs, all teams need to step up their game to ensure that they have a shot at bringing home the Zog Bowl Championship!

The BEAT IT division also features two teams (All Banged Up and Lean & Mean) with perfect records... and another (Sexy Movimiento) whose only blemish is a tie. D.T.W.A.F.P. and the Mattress Cowboys are also playing great ball and figure to be in the playoff hunt.

The only team in the BILLY JEAN division yet to lose is Zog5 Across The Eye who is off to a scorching hot start lead by the strong arm of Quarterback Bret Leuthner. All 6 teams have shown promise and look to make a push for the playoffs.

Best of luck to all!!!

Team Zog: Saints, Spinners, and Then Some

2008-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

Team ZogSports joined New York Sports Clubs on Friday as part of their Saints & Spinners Spin Benefit and Party in which 100 riders/hour rode stationary bikes in the middle of Grand Central Station in an effort to raise money for HealthCorps which fights teen obesity.

Our hour featured the famous Naked Cowboy and we thought we'd share some pics with you:

L to R: Zog founder Rob Herzog, Chris Corbin, Naked Cowboy, Andy Koleba (behind the shoulder!), Alyssa Rashbaum, Brandon Bitterman, Christie MacKinnon, Joel Kornblau

Zoggers on the bikes!

It's Back!

2008-01-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

Miss Us? The ZogBlog is back and we've got lots of news and some great pics to share with you!

First Up - What's Going on this Winter

Well, we've sold out all our Manhattan leagues so if you got in, we'll see you out there this season!

Missed out? You can still play:
Dodgeball - in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Park Slope, Brooklyn
Basketball - in Astoria Queens

Hit The Slopes with Us!

Who wants to be a snow bunny? Enjoy the awesome slopes of the East Coast (and one trip to Colorado) mountains this winter.

Take a week off work and come to Crested Butte, Colorado with a small group of great Zoggers. Registration is closing really soon so sign up fast! The trip is from Feb 7-12 and all the details are here: http://www.zogsports.org/activity_details/121

We're also taking weekend trips to Killington, VT and Stowe, VT and some great day trips to Windham, NY and Stratton, VT.

Wrapping Up Last Season
Check out great pics from some of the teams that played with us last season and don't forget to send us your own pics to info@zogsports.org

Ball Busters (now Go Nads), Ex Casual Dodgeball Champs Fall 07

Butterfield Experience - Casual Indoor Soccer Champs Fall 07

Tell Us: What Zog activity are you most excited about this winter?

ZogSports Halloween Madness - Send Us Your Photos!

2007-11-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

Hey ZogSportsters!

We had a BLAST at the Halloween Party and we hope you did too! Did you win a title in the Costume Contest? Send us your photo! Think you were robbed of the title? Send us your photo and tell us why! We'll post images here as we get them and hopefully amass enough for a big ol' Shutterfly album like the big kids have.

Send your pics to alyssa@zogsports.org and share the fun with the whole Zog community!

Join Us for a SPOOKTASTIC Halloween!

2007-10-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Boo! Did we scare you? It's almost time for the big ZogSports Halloween Party, so put on those cat ears, perfect your cowboy costume, and get psyched!

This has been one of our most fun events of the year and this year we are teaming up with Street Project to make it even better. Street Project is a non-profit community service organization that provides volunteer opportunities for young professionals in New York City. Visit http://www.streetproject.org/ for more information. The door donation will go to Street Project as well as the costume contest winners' charities of choice.

When: Friday, October 26 8:30-?????
Where: Libation 137 Ludlow St. (Stanton & Rivington Sts.)
What: $10 donation at the door gets you a drink ticket and entry into the costume contest. Awards will be given for:
Best 80's Celebrity
Best Brand Mascot (i.e. Tony the Tiger, Keebler Elf, Jolly Green Giant)
Best Group Costume
Best Overall Costume
How: Buy your tickets at the door

Don't Miss Out on one of the BEST parties of the year!

Check out these pics from past Zog Halloween Parties!

Photo Contest Winner(s) Announced!

2007-09-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

It's time to announce a winner of the big ZogSports Photo Contest!

The winner receives a $250 check for the charity of their choice! But since we're so giving, we've also decided to write a $100 check to the charity of choice of our runner up!

Without further ado... the winning photos:

Upper East Side Boozers - WINNER!

Iron Chefs United - RUNNER UP!

Congrats to both teams!

Keep sending us your photos!

Roosevelt Island Field Conditions

2007-09-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

A Note to Our Outdoor Soccer Players:

We have received some feedback from a few of you stating concerns about the field conditions at Roosevelt Island. So we wanted to take a moment to address those concerns and let you know what we have been doing to rectify the situation.

ZogSports has been speaking with our main contact on Roosevelt Island for the past two months to try to improve the field conditions. Unfortunately, our contact is relatively junior and did not have the clout to get the engineering staff to help us improve the situation. So we made some polite noise and secured a meeting with the VP of Operations and Chief Engineer for all of Roosevelt Island. We will be meeting with them, as well as the field maintenance staff, on Friday morning, September 21, to determine what we can do in the short term to improve field conditions.

During a phone call with the VP of Operations last week, ZogSports also offered to find an outside, certified field maintenance specialist to assess the field and determine what might be the cause of the condition of the fields. We were able to find a local expert and arranged a meeting and field assessment next Wednesday, September 26. Based on our conversations with the field specialist, he believes that removing the puddles is a possibility. Also, we have been working with Roosevelt Island regarding proposals for returfing the field with synthetic field turf in 2008. We hope to have more news for you shortly.

We appreciate our members taking the time to provide feedback to help us improve our leagues and activities. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Robert Herzog
CEO & Founder

Cast Your Vote in the Photo Contest!

2007-08-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

We've rounded up the best photos from the Photo Contest and now we want to know which team you think deserves to have $250 donated to their charity of choice!

Look through the pics and post a comment to let us know who should win.

Think you can do better? Prove it! Send your fave photos to alyssa@zogsports.org and if we think your pic can stand up against these, we'll add it to the contest.

Upper East Side Boozers

The Ladies of Upper East Side Boozers

U Mich Alumni

Team Big Blue

Naughty By Nature

The Men of Naughty By Nature

Iron Chefs United & Friends

Iron Chefs United

Done In One

Bovis

Bovis on the Kickball Field

To cast your vote, post a comment!

WellCare Bears Softball Team Gives an Impressive Play-by-Play

2007-08-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

The WellCare Bears Strike a Pose

Thanks to the WellCare Bears for this detailed run-down of their recent win!

WellCare Bears show heart of a champion, win in Extra Innings

New York – Out-manned, out-played, and seemingly out of luck for much of their game yesterday, the WellCare Bears seemed destined to fall to their third defeat of the season. Some of their best power hitters were unavailable for this game. For the first two innings, they played with 2 outfielders. One of the players on the team played with an injured heel. The cards did not appear to be in their favor on this night. Down by 3 runs going into the bottom of the 7th inning (the last inning), there were not many in the near-record crowd of 3 who believed their Bears could mount a comeback effort. They had not scored in 3 innings. They were making mistakes all over the field and on the base paths. It seemed over!

However, after two leadoff walks to start the inning and RBI singles by Jose Rivera & Hector Roman, the Bears had pulled to within 1 run. 2 outs later, Manager Greg Horta would call his number and step to the plate. With all the pressure mounting and obvious comparisons to Kirk Gibson as he limped to the plate in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series, Greg lined a single to left and the score was in fact tied! Jose Taveras would come up and hit a deep shot to left, but it was run down by the left fielder in what amounted to be the luckiest catch of his life. The other team was left stunned at what had just happened.

Still, undeterred in their comeback efforts, the Bears went to work again in the bottom of the 8th. Jesus Rivera reached base with another walk in the bottom of the 8th and was pushed to second on a grounder to third base. Representing the winning run with 2 outs, he grabbed his lead as the pitch to Jose Rivera was delivered. Jose hit a line drive to second base. The 2nd Baseman could not handle the catch and momentarily bobbled the ball. He threw to 1st where a hustling Jose beat the throw. As the 1st baseman stood in shock, Jesus Rivera had rounded 3rd and raced home to score the winning run. The Bears erupted in celebration at a game they had just won that appeared to be lost.

The playoff push begins as the season comes to a close. The Bears are in 2nd place and vying for a first round bye in the playoffs. Don’t be afraid to support your Bears!!!!

Early Registration Ends July 27!

2007-07-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

Well hello, readers of the ZogBlog!

Did you know that Friday, July 27 is the LAST DAY to sign up for Fall Leagues at the Early Registration price?

Don't miss out on cheaper registration fees for:

Dodgeball
Touch Football
Volleyball
Indoor Soccer
Outdoor Soccer
3-on-3 Basketball (Men's & Co-ed)

AND... Don't forget about our brand new Queens leagues:

Touch Football in Queensbridge Park
Outdoor Soccer at Elmhurst's Newtown High School

See you on the field or in the gym this fall!

July 14 Wine Tasting - Wish You Were Here!

2007-07-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

Check out pics from our

July 14 Wine Tasting Trip

to the wineries in Hudson Valley, NY!

Want to get in on the fun? We're leading ANOTHER trip to the North Fork of Long Island on August 11 and while we're SOLD OUT FOR WOMEN there are still spots for men. (Ladies, if you want to go, sign up for the waitlist).

Check out the website to sign up for the next trip! http://www.zogsports.org/

Attend the trip and have a story to tell or pics to share? Post a comment!

Hope to see you on the bus!

ZogSports is Coming to Queens!

2007-07-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Queens- and Long Island-based ZogSportsers (or anyone who loves playing football and soccer on gorgeous fields):

Newtown High School's awesome field!!

ZogSports is blazing a trail for Queens this fall and we've got fields in Long Island City and Elmhurst, where we'll be hosting new Touch Football and Outdoor Soccer leagues!

Touch Football: We'll play in Queensbridge Park in Long Island City!

Outdoor Soccer: We're playing on Newtown High School's gorgeous field in Elmhurst! (Click here to check out this amazing field for yourself: http://takethefield.org/fields/newtown.html)

As with all the other leagues, registration is opening July 16 for these brand new leagues.... Don't miss out! Start registering Monday, July 16 at www.ZogSports.org!

Manhattan United in a Victory Pose

2007-06-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

Check out the Manhattan United team from ZogSports' Spring Outdoor Soccer league, looking stoked after winning the championships!

Got a great story or picture from the season? Send it to alyssa@zogsports.org.

Are you playing soccer with us this summer? Tell us about it by posting a comment!

Take a Trip With Us!

2007-06-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

ZogSports has a great way to beat the city heat this summer! Let us take you on day trips like White Water Rafting (on Dam Release Weekends!) and Wine Tasting in upstate NY and on the North Fork of Long Island… Register Now or read on for more details.

White Water Rafting Day Trips (on Dam Release Weekends!)
Can you handle Class III rapids? Join us and find out when we travel to the Lehigh River Gorge to navigate the rapids on a dam release weekend! Then celebrate with a Zog-provided Happy Hour on the bus home!

June 23 - Spots Selling Fast! Register Now!!
August 4 - We're rafting in the Lehigh River Gorge!

Wine Tasting Day Trips
Why travel all the way to Napa when there are some fantastic vineyards nearby! This summer, we'll lead trips to Hudson Valley and the North Fork of Long Island, where you’ll sample wines at four different vineyards. We’ll handle the driving so you can enjoy a full day of imbibing.

July 14 - We'll hit 3-4 Vineyards in NY's Hudson Valley
August 11 - Visit 3-4 Vineyards on Long Island's North Fork

For more information on our trips, including a Club Getaway weekend, Click Here.

And stay tuned for details on ZogSports’ Fall league registration for sports including Touch Football, Dodgeball, Softball, Soccer (Indoor & Outdoor), Basketball, and Volleyball! Details will be announced at www.ZogSports.org in July.

Take a Trip With ZogSports this Summer!

2007-05-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

What are you doing this summer?

We'll be white water rafting, wine tasting, and taking off for a muli-sport adventure weekend! Want to come along?

White Water Rafting!
Zog will run day-trips to two white water rafting spots on the Lehigh River Gorge on June 23 and August 4 - both dam release weekends, which means great Class III rapids!

Wine Tasting!
On July 14 and August 11, we'll charter a bus to drive us through the vineyards of Hudson Valley and the North Fork of Long Island, to sip some of the finest wines New York has to offer!

Multi-Sport Weekend!
For those who want to get out of the city for a full weekend, we'll be sending you to Club Getaway from July 20-22.

More details on all the trips are, as always, on www.ZogSports.org.

Here's hoping you'll take a trip with us this summer!

Have you already signed up? Post a comment and tell us which trip you're going on and why you're stoked about it!

You Oughta Be in Print!

2007-05-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Gosh, ZogSportsters... Enough about us.... Tell us about you!

We're gearing up for our first ever NEWSLETTER and we can't do it without you!

Did you make a great play in football that you want the world (ok ok, the ZS community) to know about? Take a hilarious shot to the head in dodgeball and feel like sharing your embarrassment?

We want to know! So drag out the ol' typewriter and get writing. Tell us your best story from the season, send us your favorite pics (from games, happy hours, parties, etc) and if we dig what you have to say, we'll print it and you'll be FAMOUS!*

Send entries to alyssa@zogsports.org or just post em here in the comments section!

*ZogSports cannot guarantee world fame, but we can say with absolute authority that you'll at least be cool in our eyes, and isn't that what really counts?

Thank You!

2007-05-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came out looking their best on Saturday night to the ZogSports Prom-Themed Fundraiser!

Not only did we raise money for a great cause, but we also did a great job of raising more than a few glasses to our achievement! Plus we had a great time posing in the photo booth, chowing down on food by Dinosaur Bar-B-Q (including the highly praised brownies), and taking over the dance floor.

Congrats to Prom King Charlie Panoff and Prom Queen Christie "Zog" MacKinnon!

Extra congrats go out to the winners of the amazing raffle and silent auction prizes, including $500 off team registration with ZS, VIP tickets to the Today Show Summer Concert Series, and sick Yankee tixx.

Pics from the event will be up soon, but for now, post a comment and share what you thought of the event! Have a great story or photo? Send it to info@zogsports.org and we just might include it in our upcoming newsletter!

It's Not a Party Until You're All Wearing Lampshades on Your Heads

2007-05-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hey, ZogSportsters -

We have spoken with many of our members and in our efforts to try and fundraise we are worried that we left out some of our best people. Since at ZogSports we try and be inclusive (not exclusive) we have changed the price of tickets to the May 12 Fundraiser Party in hopes that everyone can attend, and we have made the donations to the Fund voluntary! (Please note that all those who have already purchased the tickets can either donate the difference or receive a refund)

Since we're throwing this big ol' Fundraiser Party in your honor, as a sign of appreciation for raising over a quarter of a million dollars for charity, we want to make sure the ticket price is manageable for the whole Zog community. For a limited time, we are lowering the price to $95.

Anyone who wishes to make an additional donation to the Play For Your Cause "Build-A-Field" Fund will be able to do so upon registration.

Donations are:
Bronze - $10
Silver - $20 (Includes mention in the Event Auction Guide)
Gold - $40 (Includes mention in the Event Auction Guide and Recognition at Event)

We hope each and every one of you will come celebrate your achievement with us at the May 12 party!

Visit www.ZogSports.org to purchase your ticket.

COMMENT!
Are you ready to party?? Share your excitement!

ZogSports Supports Your Partying Habit.

2007-04-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

You could spend $100+ on weak drinks and weaker company at any bar in your neighborhood, or you could put that money to better use: a quality open bar, fabulous company, and a donation to a worthy charity.

On May 12, ditch the over-crowded meat markets and do something different. Help support a great cause while you're at it.

ZogSports is throwing its biggest ever fundraiser to benefit our new cause, the The Play For Your Cause "Build-A-Field" Fund.

For the same amount you'd spend on an average night on the town, you and your friends can party with an all-night OPEN BAR, hang with fellow fun Zogsters, and add to that warm and fuzzy feeling the alcohol gives you with the knowledge that a portion of your ticket price is going to help us build facilities for youth sports in the New York-metro area – brand new fields/gyms that ZogSports members will also benefit from!

Support the cause. We'll support your partying habit.

Tickets available at www.ZogSports.org

Are you already prepping for the big night? Tell us about it!

Train with Team in Training!

2007-04-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

Hey ZogSportsters -

From time to time, we like to draw your attention to like-minded organizations that we think our members would enjoy becoming involved with. Today, we want to let you know about Team in Training, through which you can train for a marathon, triathlon, or century bike ride, all while raising money for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Here are some details and contact information for a fellow ZogSportster who also works for TNT:

You can join Team in Training (TNT) if you are in the best shape of your life, or have never even run a mile! Through TNT, you will meet hundreds of other young professionals who are out to train and of course, have a good time - all while raising money for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Registration is currently available for the following events:

· ING New York City Marathon
· New York City Half Marathon presented by Nike
*You will receive a GUARANTEED spot for this event by signing up with us!
· Westchester Triathlon
· The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon®
· Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco (Walk or Run)
· El Tour de Tucson XXV-Century Bike Ride

Be prepared to get inspired.. get motivated.. and begin one of the most rewarding experiences of your life! In return for your fundraising, you will receive:

· Free professional coaching
· Free airfare, hotel stay and ground transportation to and from events
· Complimentary tickets to pre-race dinner and victory party
· Complimentary nutrition, injury prevention and gear clinics
· Free race apparel

To learn more about Team in Training or to attend one of our free information meetings, please go to www.teamintraining.org/nyc or contact fellow Zog Sports captain and Team In Training manager, Helena Silber at helena.silber@lls.org.

Have you trained with TNT? Know someone who has? Post your comments on your experience and look for fellow Zog members who might want to join TNT with you!

Welcome to the ZogBlog!

2007-04-10T16:03:00.000-07:00

Believe the hype: ZogSports has entered the blogosphere. Now, not only can you get up-to-date information about what’s going on at your favorite sports organization when YOU want it, but you can also comment on it! Tell us your thoughts, your feelings, your heartfelt emotions about our leagues and events. Better yet, tell the rest of the ZogSports community and start interacting with each other!

In fact, start right now! There's lots going on with ZogSports that you can chat about like what you're wearing to Prom, who you're nominating for Prom King & Queen, spring leagues, the upcoming summer season, who had the best time at happy hour this week, and well... basically whatever you feel like talking about! We made this blog for YOU, so have fun with it!

Check in with us regularly for Zog news and announcements! Isn’t the internet a wonderful place?

Will You Go to Prom With Us?

2007-04-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Dust off your tux and poof out your dress sleeves: You are cordially invited to attend the ZogSports Prom to benefit the Play For Your Cause "Build-A-Field" fund! We're pinning a corsage on our collective lapel in celebration of donating over $250,000 to charity. Yep, that's over a quarter of a million dollars donated to the charities YOU chose! And we're going to keep the giving going by donating all proceeds of the event to our new Play For Your Cause "Build-A- Field" fund!

Just like your prom... If your prom had an all-night open bar!

Nominate your friends and teammates for Prom King & Queen! Now, when you purchase your ticket to the first-ever ZogSports Prom to benefit the Play For Your Cause “Build-A-Field” Fund, you can tell us who you think deserves to win the regal title.

Want to help your nominee snag the crown? Snap him or her wearing a ZogSports t-shirt and send it along with a short profile and his/her zog history to info@zogsports.org. We’ll post the snapshots on this page to help your potential King & Queen the Prom get the recognition they deserve!

So print buttons, bake cupcakes, and campaign your heart out for your nominees until the votes are cast in-person at the Prom on May 12!

When: Saturday, May 12 from 9:00pm-1:00am
Where: The Altman Building, 135 W. 18th St (between 5th and 6th Aves)
Cost: $115 from March 12-April 13; $135 from April 14-May 9; $150 at the doorTickets will not be available on the two days prior to the event (May 10-11)
What: Open bar, food stations, silent auction, dancing, Prom King & Queen, photo opportunities