Celebrating 6 Years Since Breaking Ground at Astoria Park Soccer Field

Six years ago, on a crisp December day, the Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club joined Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, Councilman Costa Constantinides, representatives from the Parks Department, Community Board 1 District Manager Florence Koulouris, the Hellgate Road Runners and young SPC soccer players to celebrate a pivotal moment for soccer in Queens—the groundbreaking for the revamped soccer field at Astoria Park. This moment marked the beginning of a new chapter for our community, one rooted in passion, dedication, and the shared goal of fostering youth soccer and community engagement.

The revitalization of the soccer field, part of the city’s $30 million Anchor Parks Initiative, aimed to transform Astoria Park into a state-of-the-art hub for athletics and recreation. The project promised a complete overhaul of the playing surface, improved drainage, and updated amenities, ensuring a premier experience for players of all ages. For Eleftheria, this field wasn’t just a place to play soccer—it was a home where dreams were forged and lifelong friendships began.

Billy Antoniou, Executive Director of Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club, reflecting on that milestone day, recalls the club’s deep pride and excitement, "Breaking ground at Astoria Park symbolized more than a new field—it represented a commitment to our community and the future of soccer in Queens."

Today, the Astoria Park soccer field stands as a testament to what we can achieve when community and city officials unite for a shared purpose. As we celebrate this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering youth soccer, community development, and the legacy of excellence that defines Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club. Here’s to six incredible years—and many more to come!