What do you do when you want to play a game of tennis but all your friends are busy? Wouldn’t it be great to meet people in your community and get a chance to play ball with them, hit the gym, or even go for a bike ride or leisurely stroll?
It’s more fun to share these experiences with another, and we’re all about making that connection – which has incredible benefits – and getting to know your neighbours. Wellness is a priority that we can get behind together, and the Northwest is no stranger to community fitness.
We partnered with Hafiz Mitha, YYC-based entrepreneur and founder of PlayCity App during our Northwestival event because it was exciting to hear that his sole focus is to connect people through the joy and power of play.
“It’s so great to see University DIstrict embrace a sense of place and play with its active urban lifestyle. Together we’re creating a natural collision between people that will help build important connections and motivate people to get neighbourly.”
Everyone needs a playmate. A catcher to their toss. And whether you’re looking for low-impact or high-intensity play, PlayCity App can you help you find the right fit.
Getting active and building friendships has become the hottest area to go mobile, giving your time online a healthy, fun purpose.
“We’re finding that social isolation is skyrocketing because people are not active enough and spending too much time on their devices,” says Mitha. “But now we’re putting a positive play on it, where we inspire people to stay active and young at heart by bringing everyone of all ages and backgrounds together using play as a common interest.”
Started three years ago, the app is now supported by City of Calgary, Calgary Sport and Social Club, and major recreation centres including Rexall and Genesis. It creates real experiences and builds real relationships for people in Northwest Calgary and beyond. To date, more than 2,000 matches have been made over activities ranging from hockey to badminton, and dog walking to hiking.
PlayCity is perfect for people new to the Northwest from students at University of Calgary with time to spare between classes to empty-nesters looking to widen their active-living network. Learn how PlayCity is making it easy to meet people
“When I heard University District was going to be home to a 1/4-acre urban dog park, set to open on July 15, I couldn’t help but get excited by the potential it offers for people to get out, dog walk and socialize in the parks using the PlayCity app,” says Mitha.
Let’s put the app in action! Before University District opens its doggie gates, go onto PlayCity app and see what other pet lovers are nearby looking to mingle with new furry friends.
Here’s how it works. Visit your iTunes or Google Play app store and search for PlayCity. It’s free to download and easy to upload your profile. Simply log into the app through your Facebook account, then select the activities you’re interested in, along with your skill level for each. Then like magic, the app will match you with users who are online, nearby, interested in the same activities and compete at the same skill level. All that’s left is to send your match an invite to play!
Looking for a new spot to adventure with our animal companions? Then check out our guide to the best dog parks in the Northwest!
Sometimes it would be easier if we could meet like dogs do: a little play bow, a quick sniff and voila – pals! But the fact remains that meeting new people as an adult can take more effort and that’s where PlayCity comes in.
Gather family, friends and your furry companions and join us on July 15, from 1 – 5pm for the opening of our urban dog park. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more exciting details!
“As we age, our social circles get smaller, we’re busier than ever and finding time to meet people with similar interests is difficult. We’re matching you with someone over a shared interest, and it almost automatically creates an ease of connection and encourages communal play. It’s like wearing the same jersey in support of a sports team – the love is simply there.”
Whether you’re looking to match the Venus to your Serena, or more excited by the prospect of a new neighbourhood bike night, PlayCity will help you stay active, meet new people and have fun!
Available on Android and iOS, PlayCity is a free app that can be downloaded here.
Sniffing around for more news about what’s taking shape at University District? Stop in at our Discovery Centre and join our newsletter to stay in the loop with community events and updates!
The University District blog is a resource for Calgarians who want to live, work, play, visit or buy in the northwest. We will provide you with information, stories, news and a closer look at the things that matter so you can live a more inspired, active and connected life in NW Calgary at University District… Life works here.
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