Have you ever wondered what the Jenkem crew looks like when they’re not on their skateboards? Maybe you’ve pictured us juggling balls or stretching our hamstrings? Well, while we’re not joining OnlyFans, we did participate in a recent, slightly less revealing endeavor: playing soccer with the Chinatown Soccer Club (CSC).
The Chinatown Soccer Club is a long-standing institution in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. For the past two decades, this group of skaters, artists, and local personalities has met for friendly pickup soccer games. Over the years, the CSC has welcomed notable figures such as The Gonz, Peter Bici, and Peter Sutherland, creating a unique community bonded by their shared love of the game and the neighborhood.
If any crew could motivate us to rise early, stretch properly, and actually run for half an hour, it’s definitely the CSC. In the video below, you can witness our attempts at soccer, laugh at us, and hear from skate photographer and league regular Gerhard Stochl and other members about the club’s origins and what sets them apart from your typical sports enthusiasts.
The CSC isn’t just a soccer team; it’s a community. For twenty years, they’ve been more than just a group of guys kicking a ball around. They represent a fusion of skateboarding culture with the camaraderie of team sports. Their games bring together artists, skaters, and locals, creating a unique energy that’s both competitive and laid-back.
Chinatown Soccer Club members playing soccer
The diverse backgrounds of the CSC members are what make this group so interesting. From seasoned skateboarders to talented artists, the common thread is a love for the Lower East Side community and a passion for friendly competition. This is why they are different from the usual “meathead jocks” as some might put it. The team embodies a more inclusive spirit.
Close-up of soccer action with Chinatown Soccer Club
The club’s longevity speaks volumes about the tight-knit community they’ve built. What started as a casual meetup has evolved into a significant part of the Lower East Side’s cultural landscape, providing a space for people to connect and stay active. Their games are a mix of athleticism and friendly rivalry, always rooted in a sense of community.
Soccer players from the Chinatown Soccer Club in action
The video showcases not just the soccer game itself but the vibe of the CSC – a blend of athleticism and community spirit, fueled by the unique energy of NYC. It’s a testament to how sports can bring together diverse groups of people in meaningful ways. This isn’t just about soccer; it’s about connection and camaraderie.
Chinatown Soccer Club players during a game
Watching the Jenkem crew attempt soccer offers a lighthearted contrast to their usual skateboarding exploits. It’s fun seeing them outside of their comfort zone and experiencing the camaraderie and friendly competition that the CSC embodies. The video serves as a reminder that community sports can be fun for all.
Group photo of the Chinatown Soccer Club
This project highlights the cross-cultural connections that skateboarding can foster and demonstrates how diverse communities can come together over a shared passion. The Chinatown Soccer Club’s story is a testament to the unifying power of sports and the importance of building strong communities.
Filmed by: Greg Navarro and Ian Michna
Edited by: Greg Navarro
Photos by: Greg Navarro
The Chinatown Soccer Club exemplifies the unique intersection of sports, art, and community. It’s more than just a weekly game; it’s a hub for connection and a reminder that sometimes, the most fulfilling experiences are found outside of our comfort zones. So, check out the video, have a laugh, and maybe even get inspired to find your own community of like-minded people.
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