As Arlington continues to adjust to changes in the federal workforce and more residents settle into hybrid or remote work routines, one local company is helping people reconnect in simple, social and fun ways.
DC Fray, a local small business focused on social sports and events, is offering dozens of summer leagues throughout Arlington, giving locals new accessible ways to stay active, meet others, and make the most of the season.
And perhaps the biggest appeal? You don’t need a team, or even much sports experience, to join.
Anyone can sign up as a free agent, or small group, get placed on a team, and start playing.
“We want to make fun possible for everyone,” said Robert Kinsler, United Fray’s founder. “That means removing the traditional barriers to entry… cost, coordination, or even knowing people. We’ve designed our leagues so all you need is a willingness to show up.”
New members can play their first league free
To make joining even easier, Fray offers a membership program called Fraylife+ and new members get their first league free.
That means trying a full season of kickball, soccer, softball, or cornhole comes with no upfront cost. Additional perks include:
- Leagues that are free to Fraylife+ members every season
- 25% off all other future league registrations
- Access to giveaways, discounts, and Fray-hosted experiences
The goal, according to Kinsler, is to keep participation affordable and open to all, while helping people build stronger local connections.
Sports with a social twist — Right here in Arlington
For those looking to add some activity to their routine or meet new people in a low-pressure setting, DC Fray offers a wide range of options this summer in Arlington:
🏐 Volleyball
- Volleyball at Quincy Park – Sundays (Sand) – Starts June 22
- Volleyball at Towers Park – Mondays (Sand) – Starts June 23
- Volleyball at Westover Park – Tuesdays (Sand) – Starts June 24
- Volleyball at Quincy Park – Wednesdays (Combo League) – Starts June 25
- Volleyball at Westover Park – Thursdays (Sand) – Starts June 26
⚽ Soccer
- Soccer at Long Bridge Park – Sundays (8v8 Turf) – Starts June 22
- Soccer at Long Bridge Park – Mondays (8v8 Turf) – Starts June 23
- Soccer at Long Bridge Park – Wednesdays (8v8 Turf) – Starts June 25
🥎 Softball
- Softball at Quincy Park – Sundays (Athletic Metal Bat) – Starts June 22
- Softball at Virginia Highlands Park – Fridays (Social Metal Bat) – Starts June 27
🎾 Tennis (at Quincy Park)
- Beginner – Wednesdays 6:30 PM – Starts June 25
- Beginner/Intermediate – Wednesdays 7:30 PM – Starts June 25
- Intermediate – Wednesdays 8:30 PM – Starts June 25
- Beginner – Wednesdays 6:30 PM – Starts August 6
- Beginner/Intermediate – Wednesdays 7:30 PM – Starts August 6
- Intermediate – Wednesdays 8:30 PM – Starts August 6
🥏 Kickball
- Kickball at Jennie Dean Park – Sundays (Grass) – Starts June 22
🌽 Cornhole
- Cornhole at Continental – Tuesdays – Starts June 24
- Cornhole at Clarendon Ballroom – Thursdays – Starts June 26
🎯 Bocce
- Bocce at Continental Beer Garden – Thursdays – Starts June 26
Rebuilding Community in a Changing City
With fewer people returning to office life and federal agencies shifting staffing and operations, Arlington is seeing a shift in how community happens. The rhythms of shared routines, commutes, happy hours, office meetups, are no longer a given.
That’s exactly where DC Fray is finding purpose.
“People are hungry for belonging,” said Kinsler. “And what we’ve learned is that sometimes, belonging starts with a ball, a water bottle and a name tag.”
Registration Now Open
Spots are filling quickly across Arlington, especially in early evening leagues. DC Fray makes it easy for anyone to join the fun with no team required and no experience needed.
Explore the full lineup and sign up at dcfray.com/leagues.
