The FGG is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Tom Waddell Award. This is the highest recognition offered by the FGG and is presented at the Opening Ceremony of each Gay Games to two people of differing genders. In late June 2026, the recipients will be announced in Valencia at the Opening Ceremony for Gay Games XII..

A nominee must:

• Inspire pride through leadership and excellence in sports, culture, or volunteerism

• Devote their energies to the success of the Gay Games and/or related activities without regard for personal gain

• Participate at their personal best

• Personify standards of commitment, selflessness, and love of humanity

You can learn more about the Tom Waddell Award and the previous nominees and recipients here.

Anyone may nominate a qualified person. To learn more about award eligibility and submit a nomination, use the form here.

Nominations officially open during the Annual General Assembly in October, 2025. For now, here is what you can do:

• Think about who you might want to nominate.

• Get the permission of the nominee, if possible.

• Review the nomination form and gather all the information requested.

• Identify one or more people who will write letters of endorsement on behalf of your nominee.

• Plan to submit your nomination paperwork starting in late October, 2025.

The deadline for submitting nominations is 31 March 2026.

Questions? Write to awards@gaygames.net

The Federation of Gay Games stands unapologetically for the human rights of all LGBTQ+ people - especially trans people, who remain among the most marginalized members of our community. We categorically condemn the draft amendments to València’s Trans Law. 

When València was chosen to host the 2026 Gay Games in November 2021, it was under a previous administration. Since then, our cooperation agreement - covering venues, security, essential public services, and the ability of trans people to attend and participate - has remained in place, and we have guarantees that the municipal and regional authorities will honor their commitments.

We want to make it very clear to our attendees, both from Spain and around the world: all participants will be able to enjoy a safe and inclusive event where they are guaranteed to attend and participate as their chosen gender identity.

In July 2025, the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) will conduct two four-day site inspections in both of the finalist cities - Denver, USA and Perth, Australia - as part of the selection process to host Gay Games XIII in 2030. The visits will include facility tours, meetings with local stakeholders, and cultural immersion.

• A team of three expert site inspectors - Julie Williams, Rob Smitherman, and Sarah Townsend - will lead the evaluation. Each inspector brings extensive experience from previous Gay Games events, and board positions within the FGG and other LGBTQ+ sport and culture organizations.

In July 2025 the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) will undertake a site inspection tour of the two finalist  bid cities - Denver, USA and Perth, Australia - vying to host Gay Games XIII in 2030, to see first hand how the bid teams plan to host the Games in their city. 

The inspection will take place in July 2025, and take the form of a 4-day visit to each city, hosted by the bid team, and will include a detailed analysis of the bid book, visits to the facilities and sites where the Games will be held and meetings with bid team leadership and community stakeholders..   Each bid team will also help the inspectors understand local context and culture and how it supports  their bid proposal.

The visit will be undertaken by three site inspectors, hand-selected by the FGG from outside of the Federation, but with a deep understanding of the history of the Games, and with specific sport and culture knowledge.  This will allow our site inspectors to prepare a detailed view of the bid from the ground, which will then be shared with the FGG General Assembly.

Julie Williams has been a dedicated Gay Games participant since 1994, attending eight consecutive editions and earning her first medal in Guadalajara in 2023. With prior experience as a site inspector for the 2022 bid and as a former FGG board member, she brings valuable insight to the GGXIII 2030 site selection team. A strong advocate for inclusion and equity, Julie co-founded Melbourne Rainbow Golfers and has long contributed to LGBTIQ+ sports and cultural initiatives. 

“I sincerely thank the FGG for providing me with another opportunity to be a site inspector – this time for GGXIII 2030.  I am lucky enough to have been to every Gay Games since New York in 1994.  These experiences have been a fantastic way to explore new cities in a safe and inclusive environment, whilst experiencing the local arts, culture, hospitality – and participating in team and individual sports.  I look forward to visiting the finalist cities with the rest of the site inspection team – and finding our host for GGXIII 2030.”

Rob Smitherman has been deeply involved with the Gay Games for over 25 years, beginning with his life-changing experience competing in basketball at the 1998 Amsterdam Games. He has since participated in every edition, playing basketball in seven Games and tennis in Guadalajara, while also playing key roles in organizing efforts—managing sports in Chicago, producing the Cologne Games, and serving as COO and Assistant Executive Director for Gay Games 9 in Cleveland-Akron. He has continued his commitment through service on the Gay Games Steering Committee for Paris, Hong Kong, and Guadalajara.

“I am honored and excited to be selected as part of the Site Inspection team for the 2030 Gay Games. I hope that I will be able to use my past experience to fulfill the duties in this essential part of the site selection process.”

Sarah Townsend is a dedicated advocate for inclusion and gender equality in sport, with a strong record of leadership, activism, and research. From 2016 to 2024, she served on the board of the European Gay & Lesbian Sport Federation, including as Co-President, and was appointed to the European Commission’s High-Level Group on Gender Equality in Sport. She is currently Vice Chair of the ENGSO Equality Within Sport Committee, a member of the Feminist Sports Lab, and President of Activ’Elles, a grassroots organization supporting women in sport, particularly in rural communities. Drawing on her experience as a hiking guide, rowing coach, and ice-water swimmer, Sarah champions equitable access and participation at all levels of sport.

“I'm absolutely thrilled to accept the role of Site Inspector for GGXIII 2030. It's a privilege to support the Federation of Gay Games in this important process and to contribute to an initiative that brings the global LGBTQI+ sports community together. I still vividly remember the emotion and sense of belonging I felt at my first Games in Amsterdam, and I’m proud to be part of the movement that ensures others can experience that same feeling. In today’s socio-political climate—where LGBTQI+ rights are increasingly under threat—events like the Gay Games are about so much more than sport. They’re about creating space, offering community, and affirming that sport is a fundamental human right that must remain open and accessible to all.”

The site inspectors will be accompanied by two members of the FGG board of directors

• Austin Manning - Officer of Site Inspection

• Duncan Campbell - Officer of Communications 

The tour will be shared on the FGG social media accounts during the month of July and a summary of findings will be shared during the FGG AGA in October 2025.

Roger Brigham is remembered by the LGBTQ+ sports and culture community for his decades of service as a professional journalist and directly by the FGG, where he created communications initiatives, served on the Strategic Planning Committee, and helped develop the FGG’s anti-doping policy. Not only a Honorary Life Member of the FGG, Roger also received the Tom Waddell Award at Gay Games XI in Guadalajara in November 2023.

An online memorial will be held on Saturday March 29 at 1pm Pacific Time, USA. You can join this memorial online by tapping here. NB: You may be asked for a passcode to access the memorial. This is 456265.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“It was an honor to present Roger the Tom Waddell Award at Gay Games XI in Guadalajara and see him treated like a rock star by everyone in attendance. It took nearly an hour to leave the Opening Ceremony with Roger stopping to take pictures with everyone offering congratulations.”

Sean Fitzgerald, Vice-President of Member Services

“Roger’s unstinting support and guidance in encouraging us to set up from scratch the LGBT Powerlifting Union will never be forgotten.”

Adrian Hyyrylainen-Trett, Vice-President of External Relations

“I had the pleasure of introducing my partner to Roger in Guadalajara at the Wrestling event.  Her immediate thoughts were that he was a kind and gentle soul.  

On a personal level, Roger has supported me in many capacities, since I became part of the Gay Games.  We had a great respect for each other, even when we had a differing of opinions.

He will be missed.”

Kimberly Hadley, Officer of Sport

“I had the honor of working closely with Roger leading up to the 2014 Gay Games Cleveland + Akron, then as the FGG Officer of Communications 2014-2018; his guidance, integrity and dedication to the FGG mission continues to be enjoyed to this day and will contribute beyond our years.”

R Tony Smith, FGG Honorary Life Member

I first met Roger in 1982 when he showed up at Kesar for Gay Games-1 Wrestling, and he was supposed to be in my 136# bracket. The match never happened…. but his competitive spirit fueled a deep friendship. In 2005, Roger returned to San Francisco, and he joined my Golden Gate Wrestling (GGWC). Although on 2 artificial hips, Roger was a beast once on the mat, and became a great coach for wrestlers who were not great on their feet... e.g.. novices.

Roger was a known sports journalist for many mainstream newspapers, so I immediately enlisted him to serve in the Federation of Gay Games (FGG), which was in need of professional strategic writers. His contributions to the FGG spanned decades in various official roles: technology, media, sports, and general Mission spokesman. He was the decisive vote that moved 2006 Gay Games-7 from Montreal to Chicago, and the journalist whose work saved the Gay Games Brand from being subsequently stolen.

Roger was my best friend for 30 years, and we accomplished many Gay Games Mission specific tasks as a team: Strategist & Badger. Specifically, Drug Testing, RedBooks, Web Site, and News Letters. His greatest contribution to Gay Games was solidifying the Mission that Gay Games was to always be an athletic event run by the athletes. Roger went on then to coach locally at Mission HS in San Francisco where he turned a basement team into City Champs.

Given all his surgeries (heart, kidney, hips), Roger was the toughest person I ever knew. However, in the end they ran out of replaceable parts. I loved him dearly, and I will miss his free psychotherapy now every day. But I know he will still always be here whispering in my ear to calm me when I over react.

Gene Dermody, FGG Honorary Life Member

I met Roger Brigham in 2004 at the AGA in Cologne. I knew then that Roger could and would be impactful. His love and devotion to Golden Gate Wrestling, and Gay Wrestling in general was deep. His care and concern for FGG, in many ways, was unrivaled. We debated heavily on a number of topics when we both served on the FGG Board, but we each had a profound respect for each other's opinions. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to meet Roger's partner, Eddie and a couple of his dogs and to count him as a close friend and it pleased me to no end when I and Roger, together with Gene Dermody, had the opportunity to dine together during Gay Games in Guadalajara. I will miss Roger considerably, but I know he will be an angel among angels looking over us, even if it means providing a discerning word up in heaven. Roger, my brother, you will be sorely missed.

Charles King, FGG Honorary Life Member

My deepest condolences to Gene Dermody and to all who knew Roger Brigham. I met Roger at my first FGG Annual Meeting in Chicago in 2003. We were both attending as FGG Delegates representing our local clubs. Over the years, I appreciated our conversations and interactions very much as we each became more involved in the Federation of Gay Games. I admired Roger’s dedication to the Gay Games movement. His initiatives, such as the Equality Coaching Alliance, helped to raise the visibility of the Gay Games and LGBT+ sport in general. Roger’s crowning glory as winner of the 2023 Tom Waddell Award was well-deserved. Roger served as a stellar role model for us all.

Emy Ritt, FGG Honorary Life Member

I met Roger when I was brought in as a consultant with with Debra Kent to help reorganize the FGG in the early 2000's after the Montreal debacle rolled out. Roger was initially skeptical of the efforts (that was a special talent of his to be skeptical) but in the end was the one who came up with the idea of the FGG Assembly. We worked together to develop that idea into a proposal. vote. His endorsement pushed the proposal forward in a close vote of the Board. After that, he was the champion of making sure the new roles and responsibilities of the Board and Assembly were implemented.

As a SF resident, I took for grant that the BAR queer newspaper had a sports column. When John Manzon-Santos and I were kicked out of an ice rink for skating hand-in-hand as we prepared for the Chicago Gay Games, Roger was the first to pick up the story. He used his column to highlight the sports achievements of so many individuals and teams. He was a dogged journalist following through on claims by the FGG and its competitors and mixed advocacy with factual reporting.

I have always known a Roger that was challenged by health issues. I have always known a Roger that never let those challenges stop him. When I saw him on the stage of the aquatic center in Guadalajara to receive his award, as always, he used the time as a history lesson of queer sport, reminding us all of our potential and what we can accomplish in life.

Alan Lessik, FGG Honorary Life Member

I was there when Roger attended his first AGA in Chicago in 2003. This was just as negotiations between the FGG and Montreal reached the breaking point. He joined the Communications Committee like a breath of fresh air, with so many new and radical ideas it was breathtaking. His impact was felt immediately and led directly to many changes in how the FGG operated. Not many people could have done that.

Roger taught me an important lesson in those early years, one I carry with me to this day. This was while he was leading Communications and I was leading Marketing for the FGG. He explained to me why rainbow imagery really did not belong at the Gay Games, at least in communication & marketing messages the FGG was putting out. Roger explained that rainbow imagery was associated with pride events, but that the Gay Games were about more than that. The Gay Games was about equality in the world of culture and sports. The Gay Games has its own iconic logo and THAT is what we need to be featuring, not rainbows. Of course, we cannot (and should) stop participants from bringing their own rainbow items to the Gay Games. But, the FGG should focus on its own logo and identity. Thank you, Roger, for stating that situation so clearly for me. I have repeated it many times to hosts and fellow FGG Board members.

Much more recently, Roger was excited about working with me on converting the series of 40 "Passing The Torch" web posts (commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Gay Games) into a book that would be sold to raise funds for the FGG. Alas, his health would not allow him to devote his limited energy to that project. With Roger's input, I'm sure this book would have been amazing.

Most personally, Roger and I both grew up in the same era as huge baseball fans. As a former sportswriter for mainstream newspapers, he would regale me with stories about his hometown Cincinnati Reds and their championship "Big Red Machine" teams of the 1970s. I think he was a big fan of Pete Rose, a true bulldog of a player and manager. Roger was the same way for the most part, although he had a huge heart to go with his convictions.

It was my distinct honor to coordinate the nomination of Roger Brigham to the Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists Hall of Fame (https://www.nlgja.org/awardsinfo/nlgja-hall-of-fame/) in previous years. Alas, that nomination was not successful. I think the FGG should re-nominate Roger for this honor. Perhaps it will be awarded posthumously.

Doug Litwin, FGG Honorary Life Member

I was one of three tri-chairs of the Strategic Planning Committee, along with Roger Brigham and Paul Savard of Toronto. The committee carefully considered the FGG's then current status (with sport and cultural organizations being Directors of the board and Members of the organization). The Committee recruited consultants (Alan Lessik and Deborah Kent), who helped the FGG consider alternative organizational structures. There were SO many meetings, which Roger helped lead with careful attention to risks and rewards.

Roger was a wonderful guide for that process, as well as a gifted writer. The success of this major organizational change owes him an eternal debt.

We will miss Roger, as will I.

Paul Oostenbrug, Honorary Life Member

If you would like to share a short quote or reflection about him—whether it’s a meaningful moment, words of appreciation, or something you will always remember about him - please send it to duncan.campbell@gaygames.net and we’ll include it in this post

After a 10-year-long break from the FGG, we are incredibly happy to welcome Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez back to the board, this time as co-president.

Sophia, for those who don’t know you from your last stint on the board, why don’t you tell us a little about yourself.

Hello! I’m Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez, currently serving as a Director of the Public & Social Impact Client Team at Slalom, where I lead our Justice business globally. My work spans across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas, focusing on transformative tech solutions for government, education, and nonprofit entities. Openly identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about leveraging my professional expertise to advocate for inclusivity and diversity in all spheres of life, including sports and technology.

Personally, I enjoy balancing my professional life with diverse interests such as property management, mentoring within my community, and actively participating in sports. Being a resident of Texas and having served on various boards, including currently completing my term with the Alzheimer’s Association-SASTX Chapter, I cherish contributing to societal well-being and empowerment. I currently live in San Antonio with my wife of 4 years this month (Happy Anniversary), our daughter (Junior Olympian in Track & Field), and our rescue pup Dakota.

You were last on the board 10 years ago. What was your position and which Games were you involved with?

Previously, I served on the board of directors as the Officer of Diversity, an enriching role that allowed me to contribute to organizing and promoting inclusivity in sports. During my tenure, I was deeply involved in the strategic planning and execution of initiatives that aimed to make the Games accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I had the opportunity to put forth our first gender identity and inclusion policies that were a big part of my 2019 acceptance of my Honorary Life Member nomination. I had the pleasure of attending Gay Games IX (2014) in Cleveland + Akron, USA and Gay Games X (2018) in Paris, France; participating in athletics and golf—an incredibly exhilarating and uniting experience. This role was not only about sports and culture; it was about creating a platform where people from all walks of life could come together and celebrate diversity through the power of sports and culture. 

What role as sports played in your life, bringing you ultimately to the board of the Gay Games?

Sports have been a significant part of my life for many years. I have been a part of USA Track & Field since elementary school, state medal holder in High School, competing at the D1 level for University of Tulsa in college, and now an official and coach for USATF and AAU Athletics. I still compete in flag football with the San Antonio Flying Chanclitas, Olympic Weightlifting with San Antonio Bexar Barbell, and masters competition in the horizontal jumps (LJ/TJ) with KCEL Athletics. I’ve participated in these sports at the Gay Games, which was a fantastic experience that highlighted the joy and camaraderie of competing with fellow athletes from around the globe.Having clinched a few medals over the years, the spirit of participation and pushing my personal limits has been incredibly rewarding. I’m always open to exploring new sports and enjoy the challenge and excitement they bring.

What inspired you to come back to the FGG board, this time as a Co-President, and what do you hope to achieve in your new role?

Joining the Federation as Co-President felt like a natural progression in my journey to advocate for equality and inclusivity. The inspiration came from my professional experiences at Slalom, where I've implemented large-scale projects that require nuanced leadership and strategic foresight. These skills are directly applicable to leading the Federation, where strategic growth and inclusivity are paramount. My aim is to leverage my background in management and technology to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Gay Games and ensure they continue to be a beacon of hope and celebration for the community.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the Gay Games, and how do you plan to address them?

One of the significant challenges facing the Gay Games is ensuring financial sustainability, broadening our participant base, and increasing participation among women. My approach to addressing these issues involves strengthening partnerships with global sponsors and enhancing our marketing strategies to reach wider and more diverse audiences. Additionally, we need to actively promote and support women's participation across all sports, creating targeted campaigns and initiatives that encourage more women to join and compete. By leveraging technology to streamline operations, we can offer more inclusive and diverse programs that resonate with all community members, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and celebrate diversity through sports.

What do you see as the strengths of the co-president leadership model, and how do you envision working with your counterpart?

The co-president model fosters a balanced leadership approach, combining diverse perspectives and shared responsibilities. This structure is particularly powerful in addressing the complex needs of our community. As I step into this role, I am deeply inspired by our outgoing co-president, Joanie Evans, a remarkable leader who has not only led with distinction but also brought her unique perspective as a Black woman to the forefront. I, too, share this identity and am committed to continuing the legacy she has helped build. This current collaboration, with Jan Schneider, will involve leveraging his invaluable experience and insights to ensure that our leadership continues to reflect the values of teamwork, inclusivity, and strength in diversity. Together, we aim to foster a collaborative and supportive environment that champions the success of the Gay Games and all its participants.

As we welcome Sophia back to the FGG board, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Joanie Evans. Her dedication and contributions to the Games over so many years have left a lasting mark on our organization, and whilst we will miss her, we wish her all the best in the next chapter of her life.

Despite recent bans in the United States and ongoing discussions in several other countries about restricting participation of trans women in sports events, the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) stands in solidarity with all transgender and non-binary athletes

The Federation of Gay Games will continue to stand firmly in allowing all athletes to participate and compete in the sport that they wish and in the gender that they choose to identify as.

Our fundamental values of participation, personal best and above all inclusion means everyone is welcome to compete as they choose and we look forward to the next Gay Games in Valencia, Spain, June 2026.

Federation of Gay Games Board

Co-Presidents – Jan Schneider, Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez

This weekend, the Federation of Gay Games took an important step toward determining the host city for Gay Games XIII in 2030. Members and delegates gathered to review the six exceptional candidate cities and voted to narrow the field to three finalists. After thoughtful deliberation and a highly competitive process, the three short list cities moving forward are Auckland (New Zealand), Denver (USA), and Perth (Australia).

These cities represent the best in diversity, inclusivity, and capability to host an event that celebrates the values of the Gay Games. Each brings unique cultural and logistical strengths, promising an extraordinary experience for participants and spectators alike.

Lance Husak from the Denver team said “GGDen2030 is excited to continue our mission of bringing the Gay Games to Denver in 2030 to unite our global LGBTQ+ communities; Together! Out West!”. 

Angus McDougall from the Auckland team said “This milestone brings us closer to hosting an event that will unite communities, celebrate our vibrant LGBTQIA+ whānau, and showcase Auckland’s stunning waterfront, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural identity to the world.”

Laurie Butterly from the Perth team said “We’re incredibly excited to move into the Top 3 to host Gay Games 2030. Perth’s bid is from ground up; directly from Perth’s LGBTQIA+ sporting teams. We want the world to share in our dynamic, vibrant and inclusive community.'

“We are thrilled to congratulate Auckland, Denver, and Perth on advancing as finalists on this journey toward selecting the host city for Gay Games XIII in 2030.” said Austin Manning, Officer of Site Selection at the FGG.  “Each city has worked incredibly hard to present themselves as a potential host, and has firmly stamped their local culture and uniqueness onto their proposals. This milestone is not just about choosing a city; it's about envisioning a future where LGBTQ+ sports and culture, and the values we have in common, shine brighter than ever.  We look forward to the next 12 months and working closely with the three teams as they prepare their final bid books for review in October 2025.”

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the three cities that did not proceed to the next round - Cape Town, Edmonton and Taipei,  as well as the team in Melbourne who withdrew from the selection process last month. Their dedication, creativity, and vision during the bidding process showcased their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and the values of the Gay Games. Their efforts  will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.

The journey is far from over. The next milestone in the process involves the short list cities delivering a more detailed document outlining the organisation of the event down to the smallest details to ensure everything is anticipated. The FGG will then undertake comprehensive evaluations and site visits to the finalist cities, culminating in the final vote at our Annual General Assembly in October 2025, where individual and group Q&A sessions and additional in person presentations will occur.

We look forward to making this pivotal decision and announcing the host city for Gay Games XIII in 2030.

• Criteria for forming part of the long list of bid cities includes submission of an official letter of intent and payment of first bid fees

• The next milestone in the bid process will be August 2024 when these cities will be expected to submit their first bid books, outlining how the city plans to host the Games

The Federation of Gay Games (FGG) is excited to announce that 10 cities have successfully continued to the next stage in the process to host the Gay Games XIII 2030.

The long list of bid cities includes:

• Adelaide, Australia

• Auckland, New Zealand

• CapeTown, South Africa

• Denver, Colorado, USA

• Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

• Frankfurt, Germany

• Melbourne, Australia

• Perth, Australia

• Taipei, Taiwan

• Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

The bid process began in January 2024 with 25 cities across five continents expressing an interest in bidding to host the 13th Gay Games event in 2030.  

Ten of those cities have now moved to the next stage of the process, by submitting an official letter of intent to bid and payment of the first bid fee. Each of these cities have participated in a number of meetings over the last few months in anticipation of this deadline, including informational sessions, Q&A sessions, and individual meetings.

These cities are now expected to submit a first version of their “bid book” - a document which describes how they aim to host the Gay Games in their city - by August 2024.  This document will validate that they understand and have control over the whole process of the organization and delivery of the 10-day event.

These ten cities will then be invited to present their bids to our extended delegation at the FGG Annual General Assembly in Washington DC in October 2024, and the three finalists will be announced in December 2024.

While this is the end of the 2030 timeline for many of the original bid cities, the FGG  recognises that the partnerships and good faith effort that went into and arose from this early interest will help shape those communities moving forward.

This is an exciting moment and significant early milestone in the bid process showcasing an earnest commitment, both financially and spiritually, to the work that lies ahead. All ten of these cities are on course for a busy six months  of bid development, bid book creation, video production, community partnership, and exhaustive question and answers. One of these cities will be successful in their endeavor to host the Gay Games, and is on a six year timeline towards the Gay Games XIII Opening Ceremonies. 

The FGG congratulates those cities moving forward and thanks all of those who have participated up to this point. 

Additional information available here: https://www.gaygames.org/site-selection

Our co-president, Joanie Evans, has been featured in MyGwork’s list of trailblazing LGBTQ+ women, in celebration of Lesbian Visibility Week.

The list features 100 women “making a difference in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space around the world”.

The article describes Evans as “not only an influential member of trailblazing lesbian team, Hackney Women’s Football Club ­– the first open and out gay team in Europe – but Evans is also the co-president of the Federation of the Gay Games, dating back to 2014.”

“She was also the only Black woman on the Federation of the Gay Games board until 2017, now there are two under her leadership.” it continues.

Describing her activisim for the LGBTQ+ community, she says her goal is “to create an open and inclusive playing field for all, particularly for women, regardless of how they identify."

Lesbian Visibility Day, observed on April 26th, celebrates the achievements and existence of lesbian women around the world, highlighting their contributions to society and advocating for their rights and recognition.

It is crucial that we challenge invisibility and marginalization, and provide visible role models for young people, both in sport and culture, but also throughout society.

This Lesbian Visibility Day we asked our lesbian board members to explain why visibility is so important to them.

“Visibility not only affirms our existence but also empowers others within the community to come forward and be proud of who they are.”

Guin Joyce Ballard, Officer of Ceremonies

“For me, the representation of sapphic, gay women and lesbian is sports fosters on a personal level, a deeper sense of community and resilience against the odds. Even as we continue to struggle for equal rights, body autonomy and pay. I think sports empowers us to hype up and speak out for the equitable treatment of others whom are often sidelined or silenced.”

Grace Thompson, Officer of International Development

“It’s important for lesbians to be open and active in the world of sport and to fight for the opportunities to work at the professional level.  We still have to work harder and be faster and smarter than men to have the chance to succeed.”

Kimberly Hadley, Officer of Sport

“As a global sports community, we are stronger when we fight together for equality.  We ALL deserve to have a place to play and enjoy the sport that we love. We make sure that ALL women feel welcomed, included, empowered, and celebrated in every league or tournament we join, because we strive for openness, acceptance, and respect to ALL our community, proving that authenticity is the ultimate champion on and off the field.”

Judith Solanas, Officer at Large

“It's important to have lesbian visabity as all aspects of womanhood needs to have its recognition to show we exist in all shapes, ideals and forms.”

Joanie Evans, Co-President

“Seeing other women that are like me in my club or on the sports field makes coming out in a new club much less scary.”

Viv Woodcock - Downey, VP of Operations

“By raising our voices and sharing our stories, we inspire other lesbian women to feel proud of who they are. // Al levantar nuestras voces y compartir nuestras historias, inspiramos a otras mujeres lesbianas a sentirse orgullosas de quienes son.”

Angelica Saenz, Officer at Large

This month we celebrated the life of Rick Peterson, former co-president of the Federation of Gay Games, who died aged 71 on 15 August 2022.

Rick served as the inaugural co-president of FGG, from 1989 until 1994, and after his tenure was appointed the title of Honorary Life Member for his service to the Federation.  He continued his work until recently, working with the Gay Games XI Hong Kong team to passionately find sponsors.

Rick was an accomplished swimmer, founded the "Emerald Orca Swim Club" LGBTQ+ swim team.  He was responsible for organizing swimmers and divers from Seattle to participate in Gay Games II in San Francisco in 1986. 

“Rick’s lifetime commitment to the Gay Games movement, hard-won contributions to the advancement of inclusion in sport, and unique ability to bring people together will remain an inspiration to me always.” said Daniel Holland, Officer Of Development at the FGG

During the five years he served as FGG co-president, he described "the thrill of seeing Gay Games grow from 3,500 participants at Gay Games II in San Francisco in 1986, to 7,500 participants at Gay Games III in Vancouver in 1990, to 11,500 participants in 1994 at Gay Games IV in New York City," 

"And along the way, breaking barriers and celebrating the development of sport and culture groups — creating exciting opportunities for hundreds of thousands of LGBTQ+ athletes and artists worldwide to participate, be included, and reach for personal bests."

As well as dedicating this time to the FGG, he was also an incredibly generous donor, bequeathing the largest scholarship donation we have ever received, to be named the "Rick Peterson Aquatic Endowment Fund".

Thank you for your service Rick.  Rest in peace.

This weekend, the FGG board joined forces in the heart of Berlin to discuss how we plan to navigate the next six months of our activities, in anticipation of our AGA to be held in Washington DC in October 2024.

Alongside hours of meetings, discussions, strategising and planning, we also found time to get out and enjoy a little of what Berlin has to offer.

We all look forward to serving you on the FGG board over the coming six months.

It was an incredible experience at the Annual General Assembly in Antwerp with the European Gay & Lesbian Sport Federation (EGLSF), its aim is to fight against discrimination in sport based on gender identity or sexual preference. I had the opportunity to participate as a new officer at large role representing the Federation of Gay Games.

On the first day, there were presentations about projects under the E+ program, discussions on equality issues, advancing in gender diversity, hosting EuroGames, and more.

The second day featured discussions and an interesting workshop on an Equal Representation on the EGLSF Board. Additionally, Samarucs LGTBI sport club presented its bid to host the next AGA in 2025, with the possibility for all associated LGTBI clubs to visit Valencia next year. Also, the presentation of Valencia Gay Games 2026 was well-received, and people were invited to participate.

On the third day, there were elections, with Cardiff winning the bid to host EuroGames in 2027. Remember that Vienna will host in 2024, Lyon in 2025, and there won't be EuroGames in 2026 due to the Valencia Gay Games. Samarucs won to host the next AGA in 2025. Lastly, a touching farewell to Sarah Townsend as co-president marked the end of her term.

It was an amazing experience for me to increase my network, to learn how to organize other sport events, and to increase visibility for the LGTBI community in sports.

The author of this article would also like to call out and thank Kim Shephard from Sydney who ran the bowling tournament. He did a great job while bringing home a medal in the team event! Kim is at the far left in the photo below, helping to hold up the flag of Mexico.

You can’t help but notice that the word “OLYMPIC” is marked out on the banner. Some readers may not remember that the original event name was “Gay Olympic Games.” But, on 9 August 1982, in the midst of the National Torch Run, the United States Olympic Committee obtained a restraining order against Tom Waddell and the other Gay Games I organizers preventing them from using the word “Olympics.” With just 19 days before the Opening Ceremony, the organizers had to manually cover over the “O” word on all kinds of printed materials, including medals and this banner.

It was a very scary time, and the lawsuit eventually was brought to the US Supreme Court in 1987, after Tom Waddell had passed away from AIDS. You can read more details about this dark chapter of Gay Games history in post #13 from the 40-post “Passing The Torch” series that’s on the FGG website HERE.

This unfortunate episode led directly to the event being renamed to what it still is today: the Gay Games. Here is a rare poster that survived all the attempts to remove the word "Olympics" from all printed materials.

As Paula Bloodsaw continues to organize their affairs, she expects to find more photos and other artifacts from the early Gay Games. As the FGG’s Archivist, I look forward to seeing what additional treasures she unearths. 

Heilman is a Gay Games veteran himself, having played Volleyball at Gay Games III: Vancouver 1990, and served on the Advisory Board for Gay Games IX: Cleveland+Akron 2014.

On hand to accept the flag was Shamey Cramer, founder of Team Los Angeles for the inaugural Gay Games in 1982, and a Gay Games XI finalist for the Tom Waddell Award. Joining him were representatives from CheerLA, LA Frontrunners, Los Angeles Tennis Association, Southern California Wrestling Club and West Hollywood Aquatics, including President Isaac Trumbo; and other non-affiliated participants.

Below are the remarks Cramer delivered to the council:

Thank you Councilmember Heilman, and Mayor Shyne, Mayor Pro Temp Erickson, Members Meister and Byers, as we gather on the ancestral lands of the Tongva and Kizh people.

Before you stands representatives of the more than 120 athletes competing in 15 of 20 sports from West Hollywood and greater Los Angeles, under the banner of Team Los Angeles / West Hollywood.

Guadalajara is incorporating the Día los Muertos theme throughout the Gay Games. As a way to respect that theme, we are asking our Team LA / WH athletes to carry a photo of a fallen team-mate or loved one whose spirit will be with us as we enter during Opening Ceremony.

One of those photos will be of Ron Stone. I knew Ron through his leadership on the West Hollywood Cityhood Initiative in the early 1980s where he earned the moniker “The Father of West Hollywood.” Ron was also a member of West Hollywood Aquatics, so it is only fitting that we celebrate his life and contributions that led to the creation of this flag, which is a symbol for Freedom and Possibilities for so many, all across the globe.

These will be the first Gay Games not held in Europe or an English-speaking country; and the first to take place in Asia and Latin America.

The increase in participation from Latin American and Asian countries is already noticeable. Guadalajara aquatics event, for example, nearly forty percent of the registrants are from Mexico, Central and South America. Next year, both the International Gay & Lesbian Aquatics and International Gay & Lesbian Football (soccer) will hold their championship tournaments in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Collectively, this is a monumental step forward in building queer sports and culture communities in countries where identifying as a member of the LGBTIQA+ community often requires courage and defiance to come out, often at great personal risk.

As the Gay Games slogan states: “Games Change the World.” In many ways, those participating at these Gay Games - especially those competing in their first Gay Games - will experience many of the same emotions that us Gay Games pioneers felt when we broke barriers participating in the inaugural Gay Games in San Francisco forty-one years ago.

I couldn’t be more proud to lead this contingent of athletes and artists from West Hollywood and Los Angeles as we embark upon this Journey together, promoting the Gay Games motto of Participation, Inclusion, Personal Best.; Thank you for your recognition and continued support, best of success to our friends in Hong Kong, y Vamanos Guadalajara!

On the eve of the Opening of Gay Games XI, the venerable National Geographic magazine has published a very flattering article about Guadalajara, one of the two cities (along with Hong Kong) hosting the event.

The article, by Charlotte Lytton, describes Guadalajara as "One of Mexico’s biggest and most historic cities, but Jalisco’s state capital is only just stepping into the international limelight."

Read the entire article HERE.