Teaming Up

Adult sports teams in the region

As we trek into adulthood, we may miss the competition and camaraderie that comes with participating in sports growing up.

Being part of an adult league not only promotes exercise but it also provides a commitment to others to stay accountable in your participation and activity. It can also be a great way to interact with others, learn skills, and boost your confidence.

There are several women’s sports leagues in the region, from rugby to volleyball, that are open to new participants, and some are aimed at those 50 years old and older.


Adult Basketball

Those 50 years and older can participate in adult basketball hosted by the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. The Active Older Adult program provides “an atmosphere of fun, friendly competition that allows seniors to experience the joy of call your own foul time, teamwork and good sportsmanship.”

Teams are established on a weekly basis, so participants are encouraged to bring their friends.

The games are Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Nir Family YMCA at 2710 Market Street. And Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Midtown YMCA at 709 George Anderson Drive.

Adults 65 years old and older can also participate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Midtown YMCA.

Playtime is free for members and $10 per visit for nonmembers.

Cape Fear Women’s Rugby Club

Known as Fear the Maniacs, the Cape Fear Women’s Rugby Club is a division 2 team headquartered in Southeastern North Carolina.

The club was founded in 2018 when Cape Fear, Onslow County, and Triad Women’s Rugby Clubs came together to establish the current club. Cape Fear and Onslow Women have blended into one team and there are about 30 active members.

Last year, the club made its first appearance at State Championships and finished in second place out in the region.

The organization welcomes new members and those interested can participate in a practice without commitment.

The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays at Flytrap Downs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and occasionally will host joint practices in Jacksonville. Read more about Fear the Maniacs in this WILMA story.

Wilmington Women’s Soccer Association

The Wilmington Women’s Soccer Association was founded in 2006 and offers the women in the region the opportunity to play competitively and socialize. The team is open to women of all skill levels over the age of 18.

Currently, registration for the 2023 spring season is open through February 26 with the season opener taking place on March 9.

Regular fall and spring outdoor seasons are comprised of 7v7 teams and games are played on Thursday evenings at New Hanover County’s Veteran’s Park Complex.

During colder months, the school has a Women’s Indoor Soccer season at Off the Wall Sports.

Read more about the women behind the team in this WILMA story.

Women’s and Coed Volleyball

Sport City Rec hosts recreational sports leagues in Wilmington including indoor volleyball. Located at the YMCA at 7207 Ogden Business Lane, leagues include coed and women’s divisions.

Members are guaranteed 30 games and the top teams will compete in playoffs. Games include trained officials and all equipment is provided.

The next season’s start date will be in late 2023.


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Categories: Health