#USA #Brooklyn #Schoolyard Social #competition app #local tournaments

Schoolyard Social Launches an Innovative App to Build Community through Competition

In an era where digital connections often overshadow face-to-face interactions, Schoolyard Social is aiming to bridge the gap. This Brooklyn-based startup has recently introduced its flagship app, designed to promote real-life social connections through engaging, skill-based tournaments. Users can organize, participate, and even earn cash through these local competitions, making it easier than ever to connect with others while pursuing shared interests.

The Essence of the App

Schoolyard Social's new platform is not just another mobile app; it’s a tool forged from the rising demand for authentic social engagements. As society becomes more digitized, many crave genuine connections and activities that take them away from their screens. With this app, players can rediscover the joys of friendly competition that transcend the digital realm.

The application, developed alongside ISBX, a renowned digital product agency, combines multiple functionalities into one user-friendly interface that covers hosting, scoring, leaderboards, and payment systems. The convenience of having all these features in one place aims to remove the barriers that often hinder organizations from hosting community competitions.

The Founder's Vision

At the helm of Schoolyard Social are seasoned professionals from various fields. Win Smith, co-founder and CEO, previously served as the captain of the Wesleyan University tennis team and later worked at Sony Music. Alongside him are Harry Stanton, a former NCAA lacrosse champion, and Peter de Saint Phalle, an expert in experiential marketing. Together, they combine their extensive backgrounds in sports, branding, and technology to redefine community bonding through competition.

“Our app encourages people to come together, to meet, and to feel they belong,” Smith stated. He emphasized that competition provides a more compelling reason for social interaction than vague online engagements. Instead of merely swiping on screens or awkwardly making small talk in bars, users can unite over shared interests and friendly rivalries.

Impressive Growth in a Short Time

In merely a month post-launch, Schoolyard Social has experienced remarkable growth. The startup reported a doubling in both tournament occurrences and overall revenue compared to the previous year. Whether it's a citywide basketball event at Brooklyn's Barclays Center or a laid-back pickleball match sponsored by Sixpoint Brewery, the app facilitates connections between players, brands, and venues, proving its versatility in various contexts.

Stanton highlighted the organic nature of the startup's formation, noting, “Initially we were organizing tournaments with simple whiteboards and Instagram posts. Our success quickly caught the attention of local venues and creators wanting us to formalize and digitize their events.” This urgent demand led to the creation of an app that anyone could utilize, further illustrating the need for streamlined platforms in the modern activity landscape.

Fostering Connection Beyond the Game

Recently, Schoolyard Social secured $860,000 through a successful oversubscribed SAFE note to fuel their growth. With partners like vitaminwater, PaddleSmash, and Justworks, the app is pushing for brand awareness and market presence while simultaneously engaging the community through live demonstrations and events that foster real-life interactions.

Peter de Saint Phalle, the Chief Marketing Officer, explained the dual nature of Schoolyard Social's mission: “While individuals seek lasting connections, brands are looking for sustainable engagement with customers. Our platform allows brands to reach audiences in vibrant settings, generating genuine interactions that evolve over time.”

Join the Movement!

Schoolyard Social's app is available on App Store and Google Play, providing an accessible interface to engage with local sports and community events. As the world emerges from the isolation imposed by recent events, Schoolyard Social is committed to revitalizing the spirit of competition and community, transforming everyday players into champions and creating unforgettable tournaments.

Through Schoolyard Social, players can discover their passions, meet new friends, and enhance their play experiences—proving that the joy of competition is indeed a great unifier. Explore the app today and be part of this transformational journey in connecting people through sport and shared experiences.