"HISTORY"
"THE LEAGUE" came about naturally when founder Gianni Canaletich (@commissionergian) arranged a soccer match between his friends and a rival friend group in the summer of 2020. Word soon spread around town and Gianni gathered 4 other captains who created their own teams. Gianni built a schedule and league format and the first "THE LEAGUE" season was underway. After a successful regular season the teams went into the playoffs and collectively decided they should play for a cash prize as well as a trophy with local significance — thus the tradition of a cash grand prize and "THE HAMPTON SHIELD" was born. On the day of "THE LEAGUE FINAL" the remnants of Hurricane Isaias hit Garden City early in the AM with tropical storm conditions. Despite fears the game could not be played, it miraculously cleared up with beautiful clear skies replacing almost instantaneously the smothering overcast. The game received a massive turnout from "THE LEAGUE" members and spectators. Out of Office FC would defeat RK FC 2-1 in a golden goal OT thriller — and the game finished in the dark. After the game it was unanimously decided amongst Gianni and the captains that "THE LEAGUE" will become a yearly tradition for the village. "THE LEAGUE" is played every year from June-August with "THE LEAGUE" SEASON VIII coming June 2027