Since 2000, Austin has hosted an “anarchist” soccer game on Sundays. Anarchist soccer has many names worldwide—such as radical, revolutionary, punk rock or community soccer. Why anarchist? Participants usually offer a blank look when asked. According to its website, anarchist soccer is community soccer, which differs from the usual pick-up game in many ways. Organizer “Simon Z” emphasizes that there are rules, just no rulers. The game is open to players of all skill levels and gender (several females play regularly). All that’s needed are a few friends and a ball. Boundaries and usual soccer rules—such as corner and penalty kicks—are ignored, and keeping score is unimportant. Hand balls tend to be followed by a hearty laugh, with the perpetrator subject to mild derision. The focus is on fun, rather than on scoring goals and ball skills to fuel individual egos.
Players are encouraged to sign up for the email list where posts keep players abreast of social events, as well as important world events impacting social issues. Environment is a sincere concern, as more than half of the players ride a bicycle to the match, oftentimes from a great distance. And the anarchists have a standing “leave no trace” rule: Leave the soccer field in the same condition or better than it was.
What seems to be most important to the anarchist players is fair play, fun, gathering, running, talking, falling, laughing, kicking, and building community.
- What: Austin Anarchist Soccer
- When: Sundays, 6 p.m. until dark (summer), 2-4 p.m. (rest of year)
- Where: Rosewood Park in East Austin, 12th Street and Chestnut Avenue directions