Joseph Austin Playground

Want to hear about a true local hero? Right here at Joseph Austin Playground, we celebrate just that. Joseph Austin Playground isn’t just swings and slides. It’s a living tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the youth of Jamaica, Queens. Joseph Austin, born in 1904, was more than just a baseball coach. He was a mentor, a father figure, and the heart of his community. He organized co-ed youth leagues in baseball, basketball, and football, fostering a love for sports in generations of kids. Joseph Austin Playground was named in his honor in 1983, a testament to his impact. Austin worked at the Boyce MotoMeter Company and later at Piels Brewery, but his true passion was coaching. He even coached future New York Governor Mario Cuomo! Austin’s dedication went beyond coaching. He’d maintain the fields, provide equipment, and ensure every child got playing time, regardless of background. His teams, with names like the Emeralds and Shamrocks, became symbols of community unity. Even in his 80s, Austin continued to share his love for baseball. He’d hit fungoes and play “pepper” with the kids, his passion undimmed by age. Joseph Austin may not have made it to the major leagues himself, but he helped shape countless “major leaguers” in life. His legacy lives on, not just in this playground but in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. Joseph Austin Playground is more than a park; it’s a reminder of the power of community and the impact one person can have.