Rumors has it that pretty soon a massive glowing ball in the sky will appear and heat will start radiating downwards from the sky making things green again. In preparation for this spectacular event this Ninja decided to pay a visit to the local sports store to gather the tools needed for some much needed outdoor activity. I just happen to be a frugal Ninja (do not mistake for fruit) and I paid Play it Again Sports a visit. The store is like a rummage sale for used sports items and they also carry new and near new items here. There is a large selection you can choose from and a lot of it were sold, or traded in exchange for credit or cash. Those sports items your kids have outgrown or you yourself have outgrown or do not use anymore, you can bring them in to Play it Again Sports and you can take the cash and purchase a six pack for that new sport you're playing with the solo cups and ping pong ball which by the way you can find here as well. As soon as you walk in the door it's like walking into a sweaty smelly boys lockers room. The folks that worked there were quick to ask me if I needed help. Really!? Ninja's don't need help. Thanks anyway.. I did not want to attract suspicion so I played dumb and asked for some assistance. The two gentlemen working the store looked like the typical jocks who work out twice a day and probably lettered in every sport in high school. There you have it ladies, if you were wondering whatever happened to that cute jock you wished you dated back in high school you can find them here working at Play it Again Sports. I do give them credit for being courteous and knowledgeable. Unfortunately I did not find what I was looking for today but this store is like that. It's hit or miss because you'll never know what people are bringing in to get rid of or to trade. In the past I have used Play it Again Sports because this Ninja is very active and I am always getting rid of stuff. I also get bored easily... Ninja's have ADHD it's a known fact. I like the concept because one man's junk is another man's treasure. I was slightly disappointed at this store having visited other stores. It was cluttered and it smelled. The two guys working that day were great with their customer service but the owner needs to find a way to clean the clutter and make the store more women friendly. That boy's locker room smell will not cut it. The owner has to realize that women and mother's in particular are always shopping for their kids. Kids outgrow their sports equipment fast and or just plain get tired and pick up new sports. Play it Again is catered more to Mom's and the owner has to realize that. Anyway, it's late and this Ninja is tired! I give this Play it Again Sports location 2* Ninja stars with an (*) and I will be visiting frequently so I look forward to changing it to a higher rating. I hate giving such low reviews because this Ninja knows how hard it is in today's age to operate a small business' I don't foresee this place being a 2 star too long because if the owner is smart he will take heed of this Ninja's review because Ninja's know what's good for you. Ugh! I'm going to bed... read more

Play It Again Sports - Sporting Goods Near Me - Fairview Heights, Illinois

I just bought myself all "used" new to me ice hockey gear... super cheap and the stuff is like brand new!!! Won't go to total hockey ever again! read more

Overpriced lacrosse equipment. Asking WAY to much for the age and condition. Wanted $50 for an used Brine helmet, $20 for beat up shoulder pads (cond. average to below average). Wanted $70 for a used stick with a head that was worth maybe $45. They don't clean up the equipment either- not a lot of effort put into presenting the equipment in a desirable fashion. Didn't stay long. read more

The used gear is definitely cheaper, but it's never in that of good shape. In fact, more often that not it's dirty and worn. I would never recommend, and will in fact avoid if at all possible. read more

Decent place over all. They carry some boxing/kickboxing equipment at better prices than Sports Authority (new stuff) but not better than the internet or Craigslist. I bought a heavy bag here for much cheaper (new) than Sports Authority. Some of the guys that work there are a bit young and service is mixed bag some times. read more