About
Frederick Douglass Playground, located on the Upper West Side, features an artificial turf field primarily used for youth sports and smaller-sided adult games. The playground is named in honor of Frederick Douglass (c. 1818-1895), the renowned abolitionist, orator, and statesman. While the playground itself is a modern recreational facility, its namesake connects it to a powerful legacy of civil rights and social justice. NYC Parks often names facilities after significant figures to inspire and educate the community, and this playground serves as a reminder of Douglass's impact. As a community park, the field is generally kept in decent condition and is often lit for evening use, making it accessible to local residents and teams. It typically accommodates 5v5 or 7v7 matches rather than full 11v11 games. Amenities are basic park facilities, consistent with a neighborhood playground. Access is good via subway (B, C to 103rd Street or 110th Street-Cathedral Parkway). While it may not be a large-scale sports complex, it provides a valuable and convenient space for soccer in a historically significant part of Manhattan.