Stonewall Sports DC levels up

This story is brought to you by our partners at Stonewall Sports DC.

For more than a decade, Stonewall Sports DC has been a home base for LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies looking for competition and community. Now, the organization is stepping into its next chapter with the launch of a city-wide organizational model designed to ensure consistency, sustainability, and growth across all of its leagues.

Under the new structure, each sport - from kickball to volleyball - will continue to preserve its own volunteer leadership and community culture. But the day-to-day will be supported by a centralized board responsible for strategic planning, finances, partnerships, and cross-league programming. The goal: stronger coordination, more resources, and an even greater impact across the District.

“Our leagues have flourished because of the dedication of our volunteers and participants,” said Stu Wales, President of Stonewall Sports DC. “This city-wide model allows us to preserve the character of each sport while delivering coordinated, high-quality experiences across the District.”

That consistency also opens the door for expansion. “As we grow, we can bring in new sports and activities, meet people where they are, and open even more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies across the District,” added Virginie Adams, Vice President of Programs.

The new model centralizes sponsorship and fundraising efforts, a move that creates bigger opportunities for long-term partners and directly reinvests resources back into leagues and community programming. “By unifying these efforts, we are better positioned to secure larger partnerships, eliminate redundancies, and reinvest more resources directly into our leagues and community programs,” said Anthony Ortman, Director of Sponsorships.

To celebrate this milestone - and the 15th anniversary of Stonewall Sports DC - the organization is hosting a Gala on October 18 at the JW Marriott. The event will honor the past, celebrate the present, and set the stage for the future of LGBTQIA+ sports in Washington. Tickets are available now through Eventbrite until October 10.

Stonewall Sports DC is inviting community members, partners, and sponsors to be part of this next chapter. After all, the organization’s growth reflects the energy of the people who play, volunteer, and cheer. Together, the leagues are proving that sports aren’t just about the game - they’re about building community that lasts.

Media Contact:
Stu Wales
President, Stonewall Sports DC
stuart.wales@stonewallsports.org

About Stonewall Sports DCFounded in 2010, Stonewall Sports DC is a nonprofit sports league that provides a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to connect through sports. With thousands of participants across multiple leagues, Stonewall Sports DC is dedicated to building community, promoting philanthropy, and creating spaces where everyone can play and belong.