Compete August 2016

GSWS CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

LGBT SPORTSAFE

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

US LGBT SOCCER LAUNCHES

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TIPS FOR A WINNING EDGE

AUGUST 2016 • VOL. 10 NO. 8 $3.95 • COMPETENETWORK.COM

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GAYBOWL XIV, Washington D.C. October 7-9, 2016 www.ngffl.com

AUGUST 2016

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAGAAA ARCHIVES

Volume 10, Issue 8

PUBLISHERS Eric Carlyle • eric@competenetwork.com Patrick Gamble • patrick@competenetwork.com COMPETE MAGAZINE Editor-in-Chief Connie Wardman • connie@competenetwork.com Style Editor Bobby Ciletti • bobby@competenetwork.com Graphic Design Assistant Matt Boyd • mattb@competenetwork.com Field Ambassador Alfonzo Chavez • alfonzo@competenetwork.com Contributors Harry Andrew, Ian Colgate, Jared Garduno, Jeff Kagan, Ali Kay, Miriam Latto, Bryan Lee, Michael Losier, Kevin Majoros, Dr. Rob Elliott Owens, Brian Patrick and Sarah Woodward Photographers Thomas Fleisher, Leland Gebhardt and Robert Mercer Sales & Partnerships sales@competenetwork.com Administration Camille Powell • camille@competenetwork.com Copyright © 2016 MEDIA OUT LOUD, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Corporate Office 4703 South Lakeshore Drive, Suite 3 Tempe, Arizona 85282 • 480-222-4223 Compete is a trademark of Media Out Loud, LLC MISSION STATEMENT Compete unites the world through sports.

16 HAPPY FORTIETH BIRTHDAY TO NAGAAA’S GAY SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES

KICK–OFF 12 LEFT FIELD

Speed Read, Grandstanding,Thumbs UP/DOWN

DEPARTMENTS 24 MVP

Branden Williams

27 INTERVIEW

SportSafe Breaking New Ground For LGBT Athletes

30 ATHLETE

Ryan Adams Launches US LGBT Soccer

SPORTS 34 36

WeHo Sports Festival Turns Two IGLA Invites Ugandan Swimmers to Edmonton

OVERTIME

COMPETENETWORK.COM

38 NUTRITION

FACEBOOK.COM/COMPETEMAG

40 FITNESS

@COMPETESPORTS

COMPETE MAGAZINE

An MMA Fighter’s Tricks to Sustain Energy 9 Tips For A Winning Edge

INSTAGRAM.COM/COMPETEMAGAZINE

42 GYM BAG 44 EVENTS 46 BEDROOM SPORTS

Intergenerational Dating – Is it Love or Money?

COMPETE ONLINE

Check out Compete stories, videos and more online at: competenetwork.com

www.CompeteNetwork.com

COVER ATHLETE Branden Williams SPORT Softball PHOTOGRAPHER Catherine “CJ” Kelly

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FROM THE SKYBOX

BY ERIC CARLYLE, PUBLISHER/CEO

A BIG BIRTHDAY YEAR FOR SPORTS DIVERSITY

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@CompeteEric

hat is sports diversity? To me, sports equality and sports diversity are slightly different. Sports equality is offering equal opportunity to all who wish to participate. Sports diversity is both about offering equal opportunity and accommodating those that may otherwise be underserved. While we certainly support and promote sports equality, our tagline does say sports diversity, a broader term.

A prime example of sports diversity plays out next month in Rio—the Paralympic Games. The vision of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), governing body of the Paralympic Games, is “to enable Para athletes to achieve sporting excellence and inspire and excite the world.”

Sports equality would enable these athletes the opportunity to compete in sports. Sports diversity, however, accommodates special needs and allows them to compete in sports. That’s why our tagline has been specifically about diversity.

So to me, sports diversity is far more encompassing than sports equality alone. We will also see sports diversity play out this month in Austin as NAGAAA’s Gay Softball World Series (GSWS) turns 40. That means 40 years of inclusive softball.

And the GSWS isn’t alone this year in celebrating a special sports diversity birthday. The World Gay Rodeo Finals will celebrate its 30th birthday this year while less than a year ago the King’s Cross Steelers, the world’s first gay rugby team turned 20. And this month Compete Magazine turns 10. We are in some pretty impressive company!

So it is time to lift our glasses—let us acknowledge and honor the past as we celebrate the future of sports diversity.

Sport On,

Eric Carlyle Publisher/CEO eric@competenetwork.com

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FROM THE CATBIRD SEAT

BY CONNIE WARDMAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PAYING IT FORWARD

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his month we celebrate the 40th birthday of NAGAAA’s Gay Softball World Series. We also celebrate a number of other sports and the amazing people who are paying it forward by creating new and inspiring organizations as well as expanding the reach of already established organizations. This is sports diversity at its finest!

I want to share with you a message from NAGAAA’s current commissioner Chris Bolton. It is perhaps one of the best @CompeteConnie and most touching explanations of the vital meaning gay sports has for many. I’m sure some of you will see your own experience mirrored by his. It is also why the sports diversity movement is so important – it is offering a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who wants to play a sport.

What does NAGAAA mean to me?

I am known for wearing my heart on my sleeve. I am so passionate about promoting softball in the LGBT community because I have witnessed players saying, “I was always teased for throwing the ball like a sissy," and then I watch them blossom as player. Nothing is more exciting than watching someone make their first catch or get their first base hit. As commissioner, I wanted to promote NAGAAA’s mission to provide a safe space for our LGBT community to play together in a healthy environment.

As young kid, I was always afraid of the locker room and any athletic competition. I was teased and called sissy boy. There was a strong masculinity that pervaded sports and I was afraid to compete because I wasn’t man enough. Because of this fear, I kept a part of myself secret for a long time. In 2001 at the age of 40, I joined the gay softball league in Memphis, Tennessee.

I immediately felt at home and I was accepted even though I wasn’t that good an athlete.

It’s ironic that the thought of playing any sport was a nightmare for me. But after discovering gay softball, sports competition became one of the most beautiful discoveries I’ve ever had in my life. I am grateful that I allowed myself to be open to this life-changing experience. I felt that it was the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

So now I feel I must pay it forward! NAGAAA can provide people who are struggling to accept themselves a place to discover their true selves in a safe environment. I hope by getting involved with gay softball that I can help to provide a source of inspiration and hope for others searching to find themselves. I hate to think of where I would be today without gay softball.

Chris Bolton, NAGAAA commissioner – 2012-Present Keep Smiling,

Connie Wardman, Editor-in-Chief connie@competenetwork.com

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NISSAN CONGRATULATES NAGAAA ON 40TH GAY SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES

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issan congratulates the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA) on the 40th anniversary of its Gay Softball World Series (GSWS)! The world-renowned LGBTQ sporting event is taking place Aug.15 to 20 in Austin, Texas.

“Sports is an incredible way to build community. And Nissan wanted to extend our well wishes to the NAGAAA family on bringing the LGBTQ community and allies together for 40 years and counting,” said Erich Marx, director, Marketing, and executive sponsor of Gay Straight Alliance at Nissan.

More than 185 teams from 43 cities across the United States and Canada are participating in this multi-day event, which includes opening ceremonies, a multi-division softball tournament, community activities and the closing ceremonies.

Established in 1977, the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance Open Division is a 501©(3) international sports organization comprised of men and women dedicated to promoting amateur athletics for the LGBTQ community. The organization was formed after the first GSWS in 1976.

For a second year, Nissan is a proud partner of the NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series, a six-day softball event that expects to draw more than 10,000 athletes, coaches

Long Beach/OC Surf & Sun Softball League players at LA Pride

and fans. NAGAAA’s local LGBTQ softball leagues are also partnering with Nissan at LGBTQ community events including, Long Beach Pride, LA Pride, Capital Pride, Nashville Pride, San Francisco Pride, NYC Pride, Atlanta Pride, Orlando Pride as well as Northalsted Market Days in Chicago. “With Nissan having the most diverse consumer base in the automotive industry and an engaged group of LGBTQ employees and allies, we’re well positioned to connect with the LGBTQ community,” said Marx.

Since 2013, Nissan has scored a perfect 100 in the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Corporate Equality Index for its LGBT-inclusive policies and commitment to the community. The company was among the fastest risers in the history of the index.

"We are incredibly fortunate to have Nissan on our team," said Chris Balton, NAGAAA Commissioner.

"Nissan has been an outstanding partner at the national level and this year at the local level - leveraging our member cities for Pride activations across the nation."

Nissan’s Gay Straight Alliance at Nissan (GSAN) is the driving force behind the company’s LGBTQ outreach efforts. Nissan also offers inclusive benefits and Championing Diversity workshops for employees, and a “Diversity and Inclusion” team works closely with advocacy groups such as the HRC to drive a culture of equality in the workplace.

NAGAAA, the early years

PROUD TO BE PART OF EVERY JOURNEY. Nissan proudly sponsors the 2016 Gay Softball World Series.

NissanUSA.com Always wear your seat belt, and please don’t drink and drive. ©2016 Nissan North America, Inc.

KICKOFF

LEFT FIELD

SPEED READ INDEPENDENT REPORT CONFIRMS ALLEGATIONS OF RUSSIAN STATE-SPONSORED DOPING AT SOCHI GAMES

The anticipated World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) investigation of Sochi doping allegations was finally released.

The independent report by Richard H. McLaren confirms allegations made by a number of people, most notably by the former director of the Moscow and Sochi doping control laboratories, Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov.

He laid out the elaborate doping scheme that operated during the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi where, with the help of Russian state security agents, those in charge of the country’s drug testing program operated a state-sponsored doping operation. It enabled athletes taking performance enhancing drugs (PED) to come up with a clean urine sample by swapping out the dirty one with a clean sample taken after the drugs had passed through the system; they called it the “disappearing positive” sample.

The International Association of Athletics Federations’ (IAAF) ban on competing at the Rio Games by the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) and the 68 athletes of Russia’s track and field team has now been upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. It now is up to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to decide if they will now choose to implement a blanket ban on all Russian athletes competing in Rio as called for by WADA.

BILLY BEAN PART OF MLB’S ALL-STAR WEEK As Major League Baseball’s (MLB) first openly gay player and now its vice president of social responsibility and inclusion, Billy Bean’s work continues to make positive inroads in the MLB community. He was part of MLB’s All-Star Week in San Diego, playing in the All-Star Celebrity Game and also part of the coaching staff for the U.S. squad for the MLB All-Star Futures Game that affords future star players to show off their talent to move into the big leagues. His former team the Padres played host for the week and also participated in the LGBT Pride Parade in San Diego.

OPENLY GAY BOXER ORLANDO CRUZ DEDICATES FIGHT TO VICTIMS OF PULSE SHOOTING Orlando Cruz, openly gay Puerto Rican boxer dedicated his July 15 win at the World Boxing Organization’s North American lightweight title fight to the memory of the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting. Before the fight began there was a 49-bell salute to honor each victim, and the fight was attended by Michael Gonzalex, a survivor of the Pulse massacre. Cruz, who knew four of the victims said, “It was a great opportunity to get the win and represent my people. I’m proud to give them an equal opportunity to compete.”

SERENA WILLIAMS’ MILESTONE WIN GOES BEYOND WIMBLEDON Congratulations go to tennis legend Serena Williams for capturing Wimbledon women’s final, tying Steffi Graf’s

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modern day record of 22 Grand Slam singles titles. She is now using her position to ask for respect for women athletes as athletes. A reporter asked her after the win how she felt as “one of the greatest female athletes of all time.” Her response was simple and direct: “I prefer the word ‘one of the greatest athletes of all time.’”

Yet another reporter intimated that because Serena had made such quick work of the match that the women’s tennis game wasn’t as valuable as the men’s. In a special report for USA TODAY Sports, Ben Rothenberg shared Serena’s comments that are worth sharing verbatim. "’I would like to see people, the public, the press, other athletes in general, just realize and respect women for who they are and what we are and what we do,’ she said. ‘Like I say, I've been working at this since I was three years old.

Actually maybe younger, because I have a picture where I'm in a stroller. I think Venus is actually pushing me, and we're on the tennis court. Basically my whole life I've been doing this. I haven't had a life. I don't think I would deserve to be paid less because of my sex, or anyone else for that matter in any job.’"

ESPN’S THE MAGAZINE’S “BODY ISSUE” INCLUDED GREG LOUGANIS AND CHRIS MOSIER Congratulations go to ESPN for including five-time Olympic medalist and openly gay diver Greg Louganis and triathlete and cyclist, trans man Chris Mosier in this year’s issue of their famous “Body Issue.” Mosier is the first trans man to compete on a national all-male team and the first transgender athlete to be showcased in ESPN’s highly anticipated annual “Body Issue.” It features athletes of all sizes and shapes from a variety of sports in nude photo shoots that tastefully emphasize their bodies in motion. Thanks also goes to both these barrier-breaking LGBT athletes for being willing to bare it all, literally, to show that athletes are just athletes … period.

U.S. OLYMPIC FENCER WORKING TO CHANGE PERCEPTION OF MUSLIM WOMEN Ibtihaj (pronounced Ib-tee-haj) Muhammad is the first Muslim American to qualify for the Olympics. And while the fencer is a practicing Muslim and wears a hijab, the traditional Muslim headscarf, she wants to use her Olympic exposure to help change the perception of Muslim women.

In an interview with Business Insider she said "I feel that Muslims aren't always painted in the most positive light. I want to hopefully show Muslims a different narrative than what we're used to hearing." A black woman from New Jersey, Muhammad says she’s working to change the belief of many that Muslim women are “docile, oppressed, that we’re all Arab.”

She’s already been named as a member of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and according to Time, her story isn’t just the story of Ibtihaj Muhammad, it’s “… the story of America.”

GRANDSTANDING LETTERS TO COMPETE MAGAZINE

BOBBY SAYS WHAT?

(July 2016)

Really? A style column in a sports magazine? I was really shocked when I read Bobby Ciletti’s column in July’s Compete. The tips Bobby provided were more than just the fluff I expected—they added real value to my workouts. While I’m not ready to try paddle boarding just yet I’ve certainly gotten myself to the beach and tried yoga.

Melanie Vaughn (via email) San Clemente, California

COMPETE READER SURVEY Favorite Place for Summer Workouts

No Preference 22%

RIGHT SAID, FREDDY (July 2016) Freddy Niblack is too sexy for his shirt and he appears to be one hell of a race car driver, too. More on Freddy, please.

Casey Braden (via email)

Inside 43%

Outside 35%

San Antonio, Texas Editor's note: Following his story in Compete, some of Freddy's sponsors dropped him because he's gay. So if you'd like to help him finish the last two required races this year to be eligible for the Indy 500 next year, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/freddyniblack TALK TO US! Submissions to Compete should include the writer’s name, address and contact phone number and should be sent by email to letters@competenetwork.com. Letters may be edited by Compete and become the property of Media Out Loud, LLC.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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SPORTS KICKOFF

QUIZ

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

?

Q. What claim to fame does

Joanne Brown from Australia have from the softball tournament at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia.

A. She got a hit with every turn at bat.

TONY HAWK, SKATEBOARDING LEGEND … for pulling off a 900, a highly demanding two-and-a-half turn, exactly 17 years after making his first. He’s now 48; the last person to do it was 11-year-old Evan Doherty in 2014.

Watch it on YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=TnvPt_a7iOQ

ASHLAND JOHNSON, ATHLETE ALLY’S DIRECTOR OF POLICY AND CAMPAIGNS … for being included by the National LGBT Bar Association on their 2016 Best Under 40 list.

Source: www.funtrivia.com

CHRIS CORREA, FORMER ST. LOUIS CARDINALS SCOUTING DIRECTOR … now sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for hacking into the Houston Astros database to gain sensitive information on the Astros’ baseball operations.

THE NBA … for moving the 2017 All-Star Game out of Charlotte, North Carolina due to the state’s discriminatory HB2, also known as the Bathroom Bill: also to the league and the WNBA for participating in New York City’s Pride Parade.

Pictured above, Henry Beam, Beam Law, PLC

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HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY TO NAGAAA W

e invite our Compete Magazine readers to join us in congratulating NAGAAA, the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance, on the 40th birthday of its Gay Softball World Series. Enjoy this trip down memory lane – learn how two original city softball leagues turned into four decades of balls fair and foul and the great athletes who have been part of it. Games have been won and lost over the years but the friendships made while playing in these tournaments have grown and prospered, just like NAGAAA. And if you love softball and aren’t yet part of a team, find one and join up. You’ll have a great time, with or without the peanuts and Crackerjacks.

Photos courtesy of NAGAAA Archives

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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FROM NAGA TO NAGAAA:

CELEBRATING OUR 40TH GAY SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES

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n the late 1970s two cities, New York and San Francisco had established gay softball leagues and were playing regular seasons. And in 1977 they competed against one another in the first Gay Softball World Series (GSWS) which was held in San Francisco. The San Francisco Badland beat the New York Ramrod in a best out of five series to claim the title of the first GSWS Champions.

By 1978 three additional leagues were formed — Los Angeles, Milwaukee and Toronto —

and the second GSWS was held in New York. At that time the five leagues formed an international organization called NAGA, short for the North American Gay Alliance.

At the first NAGA meeting held in Los Angeles in the spring of 1979, Twin Cities and Chicago leagues were admitted into the alliance. The following year Houston, Southern New England and Boston leagues also were granted admission.

The fifth GSWS was held in Toronto where Hotlanta Softball joined the alliance. Now eleven leagues strong, the alliance not only set out to establish guidelines regulating the leagues but it also adopted a new name, NAGAAA — the North American Amateur Athletic Association.

The teams able to participate in the eighth GSWS in 1983 were limited to 20 and bid procedures were set in place to give the cities time to prepare and plan. According to Bill Muldoon, NAGAAA commissioner from 1982 to 1985, in an excerpt from Gay Sports dated February

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1983, “We anticipate additional leagues will desire to align themselves and seek admission. … The growth of NAGAAA softball will be determined by the interest of gay people [wanting] to play in an organized softball league. … As others hear about us, they will be as excited as we are.”

By 1992 NAGAAA was now legally called the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance – Open Softball Division, Inc., and the 25 member cities that now comprised the organization were competing at the 16th GSWS in Los Angeles.

It would be another eight years before NAGAAA returned to Toronto to host the now30-member cities GSWS in 2000, the last time the GSWS was hosted in Canada.

Today NAGAAA is comprised of men and women dedicated to providing opportunity and access for the LGBT community to participate in organized softball competition in safe environments. More than 40,000 athletes from 43 territories and cities across Canada and the United States participate in member city leagues.

The leagues play a total of 90 seasons (including regional tournaments) while NAGAAA, as the governing body for gay softball, holds two additional major events each year that bring the best-of-the-best out to play. Each spring 300-plus elite A and B division players meet to compete for the NAGAAA Cup. And each summer approximately 5,000 participants with varying skill levels – A, B, C, D and Master's (age 50 and older) divisions – converge for head-to-head competition at the annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series.

Held this year in Austin, Texas from August 15-20, NAGAAA will be hosting its 40th Gay Softball World Series. The organization is expecting 189 teams and over 5,000 players and fans at the weeklong event.

It kicks off with opening ceremonies at the Long Center overlooking the city of Austin and ends with a block party in the heart of the warehouse district.

In between the opening and closing ceremonies are more events and a whole lot of softball being played! For more information, visit austingsws2016.org.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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NAGAAA COMMISSIONERS

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o large organization can sustain itself without someone at the helm guiding it forward.

NAGAAA has been fortunate to have nine commissioners over the past 40 years who have carried on a continuity of leadership that has helped NAGAAA grow and mature. Here are the commissioners and the years they served: • • • • • • • • •

David Kraemer, 1979-1980 Warren Shepell, 1980-1982 (NAGAAA’s first elected commissioner) Bill Muldoon, 1982-1985 Ron Burbey, 1985-1995 Jim Marks. 1995-1999 Bill Sansom, 1999-2003 Lon Berger, 2003-2007 Roy Melani, 2007-2012 Chris Balton, 2012-present

Bill Muldoon

L-R - Ron Burbey, Warren Shepell and Tommy Salzsiede

What NAGAA has meant to me:

I played in 15 GSWS and made friends all over the country. NAGAAA is a great organization to foster friendships, a healthy lifestyle and a safe place to be out and athletic Jim Marks, Commissioner 1995-1999 I just finished playing my thirty-fifth season of gay softball and am still actively involved in playing, coaching and serving on committees on a local and NAGAAA level. … NAGAAA continues to give back to me much joy as I continue to serve the organization I love.

Bill Sansom, Commissioner 1999-2003 I ran for commissioner to make a difference! This was my way of giving back to an organization that had provided me with the opportunity to play a sport with being who I am. … NAGAAA has become an extended family to me and it is a great opportunity to show the world that athletes come in all walks of life.

Roy Melani, Commissioner 2007-2012

Chris Balton

L-R - Ron Burbey, Jim Marks, Bill Sansom, Lon Berger and Roy Melani

www.CompeteNetwork.com

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2016 NAGAAA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

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hey say fame is fleeting. But that’s not the case for NAGAAA’s Hall of Fame members who are honored for their part in keeping the legacy of gay softball and the World Series alive. While NAGAAA was formed to encourage gay athletes to participate in competitive softball, with the steady growth of straight allies, it also encourages allied players to be part of the fun. NAGAAA started its Hall of Fame in 1997 as a way to honor the achievements of people and member cities that are committed to growing the sport of softball among the LGBT sports community.

In addition to promoting athletic competition and good physical health, NAGAAA encourages diversity and inclusion in its formation of new gay leagues, helping them during their start-up process. There is also a big emphasis on encouraging the bonds of friendship that come from meeting and playing with gay and ally athletes from other areas. Players who have met over the years at the GSWS have formed lifetime friendships.

Selected for the body of their contributions to both NAGAAA and their local softball leagues, the following woman and men will be honored at the Tuesday night Hall of Fame Dinner being held at Austin’s Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Compete Magazine extends its congratulations to these deserving new inductees!

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Mona Garcia

Dave Dennistoun

Association: Saturday Softball Beer League, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Years in NAGAAA: 13

Association: Twin Cities, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota Years in NAGAAA: 27

Jim Imgrund

Jim “Pearl” Bailey

Association: Twin Cities, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota Years in NAGAAA: 22

Association: New South Softball League – Birmingham, Alabama Years in NAGAAA: 19

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TEAM COM BRADEN WILLIAMS

To be included in our MVP section, e-mail: MVP@competenetwork.com

MPETE MVP AGE: 30ish (you don’t really have to be specific).

HOMETOWN: Kingsville, Texas.

CURRENT RESIDENCE: Austin, Texas, y’all.

SPORT(S): Softball, golf, tennis, running and disc golf.

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Currently taken.

FAVORITE ATHLETE: Well, it was Tim Duncan. Guess I’ll now have to go with Jake Arrieta.

FAVORITE TEAM: The Dallas Cowboys. I’m also a Spurs and Cubs fan.

INTERESTS: I’m not the type to sit around. I like to do things. If I’m not playing softball, I’m probably out in the hill country around Austin or getting on a plane to somewhere around the world looking for adventure and excitement. I spend a fair amount of time finding watering holes in the area, going to tournaments in other cities and even more time going to see live music. I think I’m a good little chef and will be found in the kitchen when it’s time to eat. I can play the role of camp ground BBQ pit master pretty well but Austin has a fantastic food scene and getting familiar with all of it is a high priority of mine. I watch sports on TV so having me on your trivia team wouldn’t be a bad idea.

BEST PHYSICAL FEATURE: People say my smile works well for me. ;-) WHY YOU LOVE SPORTS: Sports are a great way for me to feel emotions I don’t get to feel every day.

I get invested when I play anything and as a competitive person I use sports as a way to enjoy the ups and downs of life. Winning is great, it feels wonderful and is worth every bit of the time and effort you put into playing … but losing is just as important. Losing makes me think about things in a different way and makes me want to get better and develop new tactics to win.

That wide range of emotions that live in between winning and losing … that’s the good stuff. Teams are also why I play. There is something special about spending time with a group of people and getting to know them while you fight for a common goal. Anyone who has been in a crammed car ride after a big win knows exactly what I mean.

SPORTS PLAYED: I’ve played baseball my whole life and flirted with just about every other sport you can think of. I’m a good bowler, decent golfer, a used-to-be distance runner, can still play racquetball pretty well but I never quite figured out basketball.

GREATEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT: I’d have to say that my greatest achievement has been the people closest to me. Awards and accolades, most people have them. I don’t know if anyone has friends and family that have the level of love, understanding, trust and patience as the people I that I’ve found and keep close.

ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS: My softball team, the Austin Outlaws, won last year’s Gay Softball World Series C-Division in Columbus Ohio so I’d have to say that was the biggest athletic achievement I’ve been a part of. Softball is my favorite sport to play and where I get most passionate, so winning that championship in undefeated fashion was pretty special to me.

NAGAAA, the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance continuously throws the most amazing World Series tournaments and we are excited to host this year’s tournament in Austin. I’ve never seen an organization be so strong and committed as NAGAAA is to ensuring a quality softball league in all member cities and a safe space for thousands of our LGBTQ family. As someone who never became a professional athlete but always wanted to compete in a league that was structured, competitive and fun, being a part of NAGAAA has been one of the greatest recent pleasures in my life.

Photos courtesy of Catherine "CJ" Kelly

PHOTO BY GREGG FELSEN

D.A.P. COULD BE YOUR ALL-UNDER-ONE-ROOF “MEDICAL HOME”

WE PROVIDE MUCH MORE THAN GREAT HIV CARE

Desert AIDS Project offers high-quality, primary medical care to our patients, whether HIV-negative or positive.

Our campus in Palm Springs also houses a dental clinic, a full range of mental health and addiction recovery services, sexual health and family planning services, and so much more. There’s even a lab for blood work and a Walgreens pharmacy where you can fill your prescriptions.

And it all happens under one roof!

Desert AIDS Project accepts Medicare, Medi-Cal, and a variety of HMO and PPO insurance plans, including IEHP, Desert Oasis, some private insurance and Covered California plans. If you have another PPO or HMO, please check with your plan administrator.

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WHETHER YOU’RE LIVING WITH OR WITHOUT HIV, WE CAN SERVE YOUR HEALTHCARE NEEDS. Call 760.323.2118 or visit us online at desertAIDSproject.org or find us on social media

INTERVIEW

LGBT SPORTSAFE PROGRAM: MOVING LGBT INCLUSION FROM CONCEPT TO IMPLEMENTATION

BY CONNIE WARDMAN IT’S NO SECRET TO LGBT STUDENT-ATHLETES that homophobia, whether at the college, recreational or professional level, is worse in sports than in general society. But getting the rest of society to realize that is a challenge. A vital part of changing a homophobic atmosphere for LGBTQ student-athletes and coaches rests on administrators. They must be the ones to take the lead in creating a climate of respect and inclusion that includes providing training for coaches, administrators and recreational sports staff so they learn current best practices and policies in creating an LGBTQ-inclusive athletic community.

But that is easier said than done. Having worked in higher education, I know how very difficult it can be to implement any type of change, even when many of the school administrators and department chairs are philosophically on board. Many are mired in red tape and don’t know what to do or where to turn. And sad to say, there are also some institutions whose administrators only pay lip service to the idea of diversity and inclusion in their athletic programs.

There has to be a way to stimulate some action since it’s that action step that either makes or breaks an idea’s ability to become a game-changer.

And Nevin Caple and Eric Lueshen are doing just that with their new LGBT SportSafe Inclusion Program. They are providing a benchmarking framework based on a new algorithm they call their 3-Peat Model. It addresses the importance of Programming, Policy and Public Awareness at all levels of sport – college athletic administrators, coaches, and recreational sports leaders as well as professional sports leagues.

Infrastructure is a key component. The SportSafe framework supports an organization’s ability to take action; to actively champion respect and inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning student-athletes by creating an inclusive and respectful athletic community that also includes LGBTQ coaches and staff.

Caple, a former Division I basketball player from Farleigh Dickinson, and Lueshen, a former Division I football player from the University of Nebraska, having experienced being gay student-athletes, have dedicated

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LGBT SPORTSAFE

their professional lives to being the change they wished they had seen and experienced when they were in school.

Together they are offering SportSafe workshops that Caple says addresses issues like “dating on teams, finding common ground between religion and LGBT inclusion and topics that seem basic, such as how a coach responds to an LGBT athlete who comes out. We have many administrators with good intentions but fear saying or doing the wrong thing.”

The important thing is that it gets the conversation started between administrators, coaches and studentathletes; a conversation that Caple says is always a hard one to get started. And then it’s up to administrators to follow through with solid programs and policies that not only create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere but also maintain it in the event of future administrative and coaching turnovers.

The program was launched in June, the traditional Pride month, with three important founding partners – the University of Oregon, Northwestern University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Calling them “three powerhouse institutions who are leading the way for LGBT inclusion in sport,” Lueshen said that the Orlando tragedy in June only “reinforces the need to increase the visibility of LGBT inclusive spaces, and it’s an honor to have these institutions taking proactive steps to make athletics a place where everyone is valued and respected.”

Lots of wonderful organizations have been working to change people’s perceptions of the LGBT community, particularly in sports. Caple, a well-known and highly regarded diversity consultant co-founded her Br{ache the Silence advocacy group back in 2011 and has been actively involved in changing intercollegiate and professional sports ever since. And while earning a PhD in biomedical engineering from the University of Illinois, Lueshen has continued to share his story on radio, in print and in personal appearances. With the two coming together, however, they have created something unique.

In addition to structure, SportSafe goes beyond the meaningful but intangible benefit of doing it because it’s the right thing to do. It goes a step further by offering some

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| COMPETE | 27

INTERVIEW

tangible benefits that keep member-institutions connected and actively involved in their inclusion commitment. Once a member institution reaches specific inclusion goals, it’s awarded an LGBT SportSafe medallion that shows the community it is championing LGBTQ equality. It’s also listed in the LGBT SportSafe National Registry of inclusive athletic communities.

Using the 3-Peat Model of programming, policy and public awareness, the bronze, silver and gold medallions indicate where an institution is in implementing the inclusion process – the Bronze Medallion indicates intention; the Silver Medallion indicates an institution that is actively engaged in the process and has a scheduled deadline; the Gold Medallion is for institutions that are LGBT inclusive and committed to ongoing training and keeping policies updated for LGBTQ student-athletes and coaches.

Membership also provides access to the Coaches Corner, a comprehensive online resource for LGBTQ inclusion in college, professional, club and youth sports as well as a subscription to the SportSafe quarterly e-newsletter offering exclusive content, interviews and best practices.

As institutions start to join the LGBT SportSafe Inclusion

Pictured Nevin Caple Program, the first two in every athletic conference to join are eligible to be part of the elite Founders Club to honor their early commitment to LGBT student-athlete inclusion – they get to add their institution’s names to those of the three founding academic partners.

For even the most recalcitrant institutions, it’s hard to drag your feet when people can now gauge your actual commitment to LGBTQ student-athlete inclusion. With student recruitment and retention the watchword for colleges and universities, membership in the LGBT SportSafe Inclusion Program will be a positive recruiting and retention tool for them.

Interest in this new program with its pragmatic structure is expected to quickly generate lots of interest. Once the LGBT SportSafe Inclusion Program has established itself at the college and professional sports levels, Caple and Lueshen plan to introduce the program to high schools. They also note that individuals, including alumni, boosters, coaches and athletes who are interested in sharing it with athletic administrators and recreational sports leaders, can access the toolkit on the program website.

For more information go to http://lgbtsportsafe.com.

Pictured Eric Lueshen

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| COMPETE | August 2016

Registration opens at 7am Walk and Run starts at 9:00 am Walk Festival starts at 9:30 3rd Avenue and Washington Visit

RD

Sunday October 23rd Logo with Pantone Spot Colors

pantone 319C 62 c 20y pantone 497C 32 c 73 m 52 y 08 k

Logo with Pantone Process Colors

....Walk to End HIV

www.aidswalkaz.org to register!

Grab a bite to eat and listen to live music at the new AIDS Walk Festival!

9:30-1:00pm

- Beer garden - Food trucks ...anD lots more!

ATHLETE

RYAN ADAMS: STARTING A NEW U.S. LGBT SOCCER LEAGUE

BY HARRY ANDREW

PHOTOS COURTESY OF US LGBT SOCCER

THERE’S A NEW NATIONAL GAY SOCCER LEAGUE launching with the backing of various advisors from New York and Chicago – US LGBT Soccer. It’s being administered initially by the Minneapolis-based TC (for Twin Cities) Jacks Soccer Club board of directors and Jacks president, Ryan Adams. As the new league’s president, Adams says an independent board will be formed eventually but there are already opportunities to join and/or volunteer.

I had an opportunity to talk with Adams not only about launching the new league but also to learn more about him and the sporting experiences that influenced who he is today.

Compete: What sports did you play growing up, Ryan?

Ryan Adams: I played the “Minnesota standard” of three seasonal sports – hockey, soccer and tennis. I played goalkeeper for both soccer and hockey. And I believe playing doubles tennis has some similarities to that position since playing the net has always been my favorite spot.

C: Did you continue to play into adulthood?

RA: No – I played soccer until I was 17 but later picked it back up at the age of 26. Since rejoining soccer as an adult, I’ve played for the TC Jacks, Minnesota’s only LGBT and allied soccer club. I started with the club three years after hearing about it but I wish I had rejoined sooner. But I had to overcome some obstacles of fear and bias from my youth playing days.

Once I started playing adult soccer, it only took about nine months to develop a real desire to get more involved. I’d just started a master’s program for sport management and felt it was a great opportunity to apply my education and skills to this amazing soccer club with a great message on the pitch as well as off the pitch. It was growing a social football (soccer) community for LGBT athletes and others in the community.

C: Did it all work well for you and the league?

RA: It did. I spent from 2013-2015 facilitating league and competition growth for the Jacks, and today we operate seven-plus teams in local leagues that have opened over 100 roster spots for

players. The team has been able to send traveling teams to three national LGBT tournaments and three local ones while also eyeing up the 2017 OutGames in Miami and the 2018 Gay Games in Paris.

And we now offer co-ed open soccer free to the community that’s open to all skill levels – you can play without the pressure of a league match.

At the time I was elected Jacks president in 2016, I was also elected communications director for the International Gay and Lesbian Football Association (IGLFA) where I served six months growing publicity and social media for the international league. I also provided critical growth and leadership plans for the IGLFA World Championships being held this month in Portland, Oregon as well as plans for the Unity Cup at the 2017 World OutGames.

C: Being so heavily involved already on the local and international levels, what prompted you to start US LGBT Soccer?

RA: While I was working with the international organization I realized there’s a gap between that group and the in-country teams. Given the size of the U.S. and its 18 (and growing) soccer teams, I realized there’s more I can do domestically for gay soccer and its players. So with IGLFA’s blessing, I left the communications post to build a strong U.S. league as a bridge between the local and international organizations.

C: When does US LGBT Soccer officially launch?

RA: We launch officially in August with many of our leaders and clubs being represented at the IGLFA World Championships in Portland from August 6-13. With us all in one city, we have the opportunity to kick-start and unify our efforts, launching big and strong.

C: Describe your role at US LGBT Soccer.

RA: Currently my role is jack of all trades. While I’ve been gathering resources and volunteers in varying capacities, I’m still the webmaster, the publicist, the deal maker, the advocate and beyond. I (Continued on page 32)

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| COMPETE | August 2016

MENTION COMPETE WHEN ORDERING TO RECEIVE A FREE GIFT

ATHLETE

am now and will likely always be a volunteer. Fortunately I have a flexible career that permits my passion for volunteering and soccer. I also have a patient boyfriend who supports my soccer endeavors, often through administrative support and grabbing me a Red Bull to stay kicking into the wee hours of the morning.

C: What’s the best thing about starting US LGBT Soccer?

RA: I love the interest and energy of multiple groups and unifying it into one national group to promote the game of soccer in the U.S. while also providing international outreach, enabling teams to become ambassadors of the game worldwide. I also love the new opportunities for more individuals to play.

C: What’s the mission of US LGBT Soccer?

RA: United States LGBT Soccer is the national soccer association dedicated to participation in and the enjoyment and advancement of adult soccer across America for LGBT adults. We work to provide leadership, valuable resources, services and opportunities to support our member organizations. Most importantly, we’re combating homophobia in sport.

C: What are the short-term and long-term goals for US LGBT Soccer?

RA: Short term goals are to: • identify currently existing strengths and weaknesses in the LGBT soccer market • increase the number of participating cities and clubs by 50 percent over 18 months • affiliate with USSF or US Soccer to promote equality and combat homophobia by creating a safe space for fans, staff and players at all levels of soccer • earn brand sponsorship to support revenue necessary to ensure US LGBT Soccer can grow and sustain its mission and goals Long term goals are to: • become the face of LGBT soccer in the U.S. • become a pivotal resource to major league soccer’s fan bases, creating a hub for LGBT soccer fans for various clubs • assist in replicating this association model to other counties and territories to create opportunity for LGBT community athletes around the globe to be out and proud playing the game they love • grow our association to greater than one club in every state to assure coverage and opportunity throughout the U.S.

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C: What are your favorite sports?

RA: I find most sports pretty appealing; however I would admit soccer, hockey and tennis are ingrained in my DNA. Women’s volleyball is a growing sport in my life – I just bought season tickets to the University of Minnesota’s matches.

C: And your favorite professional and/or college sports teams?

RA: I tend to find individual players as my favorites.

More and more I see teams voicing more than statistics, so I am falling in love with teams again. For athletes, I am a fan of Lauren Carlini, the center for the University of Wisconsin’s volleyball team. Abby Wambach and our ladies with team USA Soccer are certainly favorites, too. And we have the Minnesota Lynx who are incredible athletes and our only winning team other than the Minnesota United.

C: How about any other favorite pastimes?

RA: If I’m not playing soccer, I’m highly likely trying new craft beers, sitting on a beach or advocating against hate on social media.

C: Do you have people who positively influence you?

RA: I have a couple of people I look up to. One is Dr. Eric Anderson, professor of Sport, Masculinities & Sexualities at the University of Winchester in England. And the other is Hudson Taylor, founder of Athlete Ally.

Thanks for sharing your vision of US LGBT Soccer with us, Ryan. If you are interested in opportunities to join or volunteer with this new organization, go to www.allforgood.org/volunteer/opportunity/17449.

SPORTS

WEHO SPORTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATING ITS SECOND BIRTHDAY

BY MIRIAM LATTO MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE LABOR DAY weekend – September 2-4 – for the second annual WeHo Sports Festival (WSF) that brings together sports leagues and individual athletes that play in and around the West Hollywood/Los Angeles area.

Taking place on the campus of UCLA, the awardwinning multi-sport tournament includes several new elements for this year’s celebration, including a Health & Wellness Expo and new opening and closing party venues – the Mondrian Hotel’s famous Skybar for the opening and the La Boheme restaurant for the closing party.

Sports being featured for 2016 are basketball, dodgeball, swimming, soccer, tennis, volleyball and water polo.

And new campaign posters have also been created by creative director Luis Rivera and award-winning photographer Reyes Melendez.

In 2015 the team at the Los Angeles Volleyball Organization (LAVO) created what it dreamed of in 2010 – an organized sports league that would foster competition and build friendships. Now, due to WSF’s success last year, this year’s event is expected to be bigger and better.

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| COMPETE | August 2016

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATE FREEMAN

The WeHo team, led by LAVO’s executive vice president Eric Gonzales, is passionate about sports, the community and inspiring others. Now serving a dual role as WSF’s executive director, he says that “My job is to make sure that we organize the best WeHo Sports Festival each year and that our participants enjoy themselves.”

It’s clear that the WSF is a labor of love. “I absolutely love it. I love the fact that several different organizations can come together and put on an event that our community can be proud of,” said Gonzales. “I love to see that participating numbers of the different sports are growing.”

The reason for the strong growth of gay sports organizations and festivals like the WSF that are also open and welcoming to straight or ally athletes is probably best described by Gonzales: “It’s a space where you can be yourself, show your athletic abilities and make friends outside of the traditional bar scenes. The people you are playing with share your passion for that sport and those friendships tend to last a very long time.”

For more information or to register, please visit www.wehosportsfestival.com.

SPORTS

IGLA 2016 HOSTS FIVE LGBT SWIMMERS FROM UGANDA

BY BRIAN PATRICK

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATE FREEMAN

IN WHAT IS TRULY AN INTERNATIONAL competition, the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) board, in conjunction with attorney, LGBT activist and fellow swimmer Nate Freeman, is bringing five LGBT Ugandan swimmers to participate in its annual international championships. The IGLA 2016 Championships are being held this year in Edmonton, Canada from August 8-14. And in addition to the five Ugandan swimmers representing Ug Kuchu Aquatics, athletes from North America, Europe and Australia are already signed up and ready to get wet.

Behind this great event is a powerful story of paying it forward. Last August the Washington Blade ran a story on Freeman’s 7,6000-mile bike ride from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa to find and connect with LGBT activists along the way. Kevin Majoros, sports reporter for the Blade and a Compete Magazine contributor, wrote a story for the Blade in April 2016 giving an update on Freeman’s continued work with the Human Rights Awareness and Promotions Forum (HRAPF) that offers LGBT individuals free legal aid services.

Now working in Kampala, Uganda and finding a “fledgling LGBT sports community,” Freeman says that “Gaining acceptance for LGBT people requires a multipronged approach and it will focus on the arts, business and sports in addition to the legal and health issues that the communities face.”

Hoping to send Ugandan athletes to the 2018 Gay Games in Paris, Freeman was looking for a test case to smooth the way. His efforts to include swimmers in this year’s IGLA championships made its way from IGLA member Majoros to fellow member and IGLA co-president Kristopher Pritchard. And the rest, as they say, is history.

In addition to the IGLA board’s pledge of $6,000, as hosts for the event, Edmonton’s Making Waves Aquatic Club has waived registration fees and secured housing while the District of Columbia Aquatic Club (DCAC) serves as a pass-through for all donations raised. And generous donations have been made by members of the Liquid Assets New England Swimming team and from additional U.S. and Canadian swim teams, especially DCAC, Tsunami and Team New York Aquatics, according to an article by Pritchard and Freeman for the IGLA website.

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Prior to Justin Trudeau’s election, Canadian visas for LGBT Ugandans had been difficult to obtain. But now the five swimmers attending the IGLA championships have been granted visas, thanks too, to special help from MP Randy Boissonnault from Edmonton who recommended admitting them.

Not all the people pictured below are identified; only the swimmers have given permission for their names to be printed. Included are Diane Bakuraira, an administrative officer at Sexual Minorities Uganda, a long-running Ugandan organization focusing on LGBT rights. Diane swam with the Ugandan national team when she was younger but as a gender non-conforming person, she (who also uses the pronoun he) was increasingly denied opportunities to compete.

Clare Byarugaba was co-coordinator of a group instrumental in overturning the Anti-Homosexuality Act, a law passed in 2014 that criminalized homosexuality and mandated life sentences for convictions. Currently working with Chapter Four Uganda, a legal organization that protects civil liberties, Clare is eager to travel to Canada as an athlete.

Phiona Katiti, also known as Adebayo is a physical trainer who has worked at health clubs and as an educator at schools. Adebayo is also an active footballer and was named Mr. Pride Uganda in 2015. He's excited to add competitive swimming to his activities.

Another team member works for a well-established activist group for LGBT people and is thrilled to be going to Canada to compete. The group can't wait to meet everyone.

TRAVEL

HOME SWEET HOME IN SAN DIEGO

BY TRAVIS DAY SAN DIEGO OFFERS NUMEROUS GREAT attractions, including beautiful beaches, worldclass golf, SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, Hillcrest, Balboa Park and the iconic Gas Light District. But finding a value-based place to stay that is close to the best-of-the-best attractions can be tricky.

Kings Inn San Diego makes the search easy.

Kings Inn San Diego offers spacious accommodations in a newly remodeled two-story hotel just one mile from Hillcrest and centrally located to all the best of San Diego. Rooms are decorated in a clean, contemporary scheme featuring soft white bedding, full baths, cable TV, an iron and ironing board and an in-room coffee maker (no early morning stop at Starbuck’s needed), free Wi-Fi and free parking.

The hotel also features a heated pool and spa plus a fitness facility to get you moving and keep you fit. If you are looking for a space to host a wedding or meeting, check out Kings Inn San Diego’s wedding and event spaces. And remember, the hotel is non-smoking and pet friendly – pets are family, too.

If you get hungry, check out the two onsite dining options: Waffle Spot Diner and Amigo Spot Restaurant and Bar. You can find out more information about Kings Inn San Diego by visiting the website at www.kingsinnsandiego.com.

NUTRITION

TRICKS TO SUSTAIN MY ENERGY THROUGH MMA TRAINING SESSIONS

BY BRITTANY BOONE, MIXED MARTIAL ARTS FIGHTER. HOW DO MMA FIGHTERS KEEP THEIR ENERGY flowing through each training session, especially when they train two to three times a day, six days a week? Well, here are some of my secrets.

The first step is not to over train. My coaches ensure that I train smarter, not harder. Now with that said, I still have grueling training sessions. But I am smart with how I spread it out. I try to get my runs and my strength and conditioning done in the mornings. Then I can take the day to fully recover my body. By the time I head back to the gym in the evening for my team practices, I have had time to head to my sports recovery location and treat my body with the cold and hot tubs. Although physical recovery, such as the cold tubs is great, your body still needs more.

Let us get into the nutrition portion. To sustain your body your meals should consist of a lean protein, a healthy fat, good carbs, and fruits and vegetables. Fueling your body with the right foods makes a huge difference with sustaining energy through workouts, with recovery and through the day, in general. Here is a typical dinner for me: • Chicken or lean steak (lean protein) • White rice with Sriracha for taste or sweet potatoes (good carbs) • Half-to-a-whole avocado (healthy fat) • Kale salad or bell peppers (vegetables) On a side note, yes-it is important to eat the right foods and try to keep it healthy. But remember, you only live once so don’t worry if you decide to eat a dessert after dinner every once in awhile.

My third and final secret is the product I use to keep my body going. I have tried many different proteins, amino acids, etc., and I finally found a brand I love. All

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| COMPETE | August 2016

Photo by Doug Larson my product comes from Intensity Nutrition. I really enjoy the grape Intramino, the passion fruit Hydrate and the chocolate protein.

I use the Intramino (amino acids) before and after I train to help recover my muscles; the Hydrate is great after a long, intense practice to replenish my electrolytes; and the protein is a filling snack between training sessions.

I really like to blend it together with a banana, oats and peanut butter.

As an MMA fighter, these are my tricks to help maintain, refuel and recover my body. I hope this helps you see that as long as you eat healthy and take time for your body, you will have plenty of energy to make it through all the crazy training sessions a fighter does.

If you have any questions or comments about my nutrition or workouts, please do not hesitate to send me an email at brittfitt@intensitynutrtion.com.

FITNESS

NINE TIPS TO DROP DEAD WEIGHT AND STAY MENTALLY FOCUSED

BY BRYAN LEE WHEN I BEGAN PLAYING TENNIS BACK IN THE 1980s, a coach told me that the game was 10 percent talent and 90 percent mental toughness. A major part of any sport we play, whether it’s on a team or as an individual is our ability to overcome adversity. We need mental stability to sustain us when we are down and seemingly out.

It is so easy to have a positive outlook when we are winning but it’s during the roughest part of the match or game when we really need to focus on the task at hand – not on anything else. The truth is that it is essential to have a clear mind, free of any mental frustrations or burdens. Here are nine ways to drop mental dead weight so you can clear and focus your mind. Then you can have a successful game, win or lose.

1. DECLUTTER YOUR WORKOUT AND LIVING SPACE

may seem uncomfortable at first but it will pay big benefits.

5. VISUALIZE THE JOURNEY AND THE OUTCOME Take a moment before each game, match or workout to visualize the end result you want. When you do that, when you concentrate your efforts on your preferred outcome, you are bringing those images into actual life.

6. GRATITUDE Make a list of everything you are grateful for and refer to this list often when you are having metal fatigue. In fact, keep a copy of it hanging where you'll see it on a regular basis, like the refrigerator door or the bathroom mirror..

7. READ AND LISTEN TO POSITIVE AND UPLIFTING STORIES AND MUSIC

The first step in strengthening your mental attitude is to completely declutter every aspect of your life. Success is built on putting everything in its proper place. I’m typically not a tidy person. The space I use for working and writing gets cluttered quickly. Although I don't mind it being cluttered for the most part, I feel a tremendous sense of peace and relief when I actually clear the work space and even my living space. It's almost like my work has new life when I have a clean, clear place to work in.

Take a few minutes each day to read something that is positive and uplifting. Choose a variety of stories, self-help articles, books and anything else you can get your hands on that inspire you. Music also has a great way of soothing the mind and assisting to keep you centered. Pick some music that helps you get to where you want to go mentally and use it on a regular basis. It can be quiet meditative music or inspiring music that challenges you as an athlete to do your best.

2. STAY AROUND POSITIVE PEOPLE

8. REWARD YOURSELF

If you have close friends or family members who don’t believe in you and what you are doing, you must do your best to avoid them. Stay around like-minded people. Great attitudes rub off. But unfortunately, so do negative ones.

Limit the amount of time you spend around any negative influences.

3. STRENGTHEN YOUR WEAKEST LINK If you play a team sport, it is essential to make everyone on the team feel important, like he or she is a valuable asset to the team. A teammate who feels like he or she is not being supported by the team carries that burden into every game. It leads to that person becoming the weakest link in your team’s chain. Keep all your team members feeling happy and valued, and you will have a successful team.

4. KEEP IN THE MOMENT In the fast-paced world we live in, we spend a majority of our days multi-tasking. To strengthen your mental alertness, turn off your cell phone and other outside distractions so you can stay totally focused on one task at a time. This

As you work through this list, reward yourself for every accomplishment. Perhaps get a massage, take a small vacation or just hang out with your friends. Rewarding yourself is a great way of ensuring that you will continue staying positive.

9. MANAGE YOUR NEGATIVE THOUGHTS Never walk into any game or match with negative thoughts. If you believe you can’t win or can’t do well, you are doomed from the onset. Repeat positive affirmations any time you have these negative feelings creep into your mind.

Always know that you are worthy and capable of beating anyone at anytime!

BRYAN LEE is a National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) certified personal trainer, life coach and author who has lost over 130 pounds. Please check with your personal physician before using these health and fitness tips.

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GYM BAG

HOT ITEMS YOU SHOULDN’T DO WITHOUT

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| COMPETE | August 2016

OVERTIME

EVENTS

CURRENT EVENTS IN AUGUST AQUATICS

POINT FOUNDATION/WELLS FARGO PARTNERSHIP HELPS LGBT COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

IGLA Championships Edmonton, Alberta, Aug. 8-14

BOWLING San Diego Invitational San Diego, Aug. 5 Menopause – The Tournament Ocala, Fla., Aug. 5 Maple Leaf Classic XXVI Toronto, Ont., Aug. 7 Big D Classic Invitational Dallas, Aug. 12 Aces High Tournament Hershey, Penna., Aug. 14

RODEO Zia Regional Rodeo Santa Fe, Aug. 12-14

SOCCER 2016 IGLFA World Championship XXI Portland, Aug. 6-13

SOFTBALL 2016 NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series 40th Anniversary Austin, Aug. 15-20

TENNIS Philadelphia Open 2016 Philadelphia, Aug. 5-7 Second City Classic 2016 Chicago, Aug. 12-14 Queen City Open 2016 Cincinnati, Aug. 26-28 New Hope Open 2016 Washington Crossing, Penna., Aug. 27-29

VOLLEYBALL Austin Summerfest Austin, Aug, 1-2 Summer Splash Wisconsin Dells, Aug. 20

Sports Club at

Your Uptown Fitness Experience! www.sportsclubatcitysquare.com (Indian School Rd and 2nd Ave)

602-285-2929 44

| COMPETE | August 2016

WITH THE COST OF A FOUR-YEAR DEGREE PROGRAM an insurmountable financial hurdle for many students and families, today nearly half of all undergraduates are enrolled at community colleges. For 15 years Point Foundation (Point), the largest scholarship-granting organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) students, has helped young people complete four-year and advanced degree programs. With support from longtime partner Wells Fargo, Point has launched a pilot program to help students in their final year at a community college achieve their goal of transferring to a four-year college or university.

Students accepted into Point's new Community College Program will receive up to a $3,700 tuition scholarship, professional coaching to apply to four-year institutions, opportunities to network with the Point community and to attend local leadership conferences. According to the Point Foundation website, 82 percent of the scholarship recipients currently receive tuition aid; 50 percent are female and/or trans-identified; 100 percent identify with a racial or ethnic group other than white.

"Wells Fargo is proud to support the Point Foundation in making access to four-year colleges and universities possible for talented students who may have experienced obstacles in their education as a result of their sexual identities," said Georgette "GiGi" Dixon, Wells Fargo's Director of Strategic Partnerships. "Together with the Point Foundation, we seek to promote diversity and inclusion while helping promising LGBTQ students obtain their higher education goals."

"We know from the experience of many of our scholarships applicants that community college was a crucial bridge for them between high school and advancing to a four-year degree," said Jorge Valencia, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Point Foundation. "We are grateful that Wells Fargo shares Point's commitment to expand access to higher education and is helping us reach LGBTQ students in need."

With the support of corporations such as Wells Fargo, Point organizes Leadership Education and Affinities Development (LEAD) consortiums around the country. Point Scholars and Alumni, along with invited high school students, join board members and mentors for skills-building and professional development workshops.

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BEDROOM SPORTS

DATING, SEX AND RELATIONSHIP ADVICE

BY RYAN O’CONNER, GUEST COLUMNIST

MAY-DECEMBER RELATIONSHIPS: IS IT JUST ABOUT MONEY? WHEN I WAS IN COLLEGE I WORKED AS A server in an upscale restaurant. I was waiting on a table when I asked a mature gentleman if he was there with his son for a special occasion. The gentleman quickly told me that his “son” was actually his longtime boyfriend. It was a mistake I did not make again.

As the world evolves, people are living longer, healthier lives in general and more members of the LGBT community are now openly gay. Because of these changes, the opportunity for an older person to be out in public with a much younger partner is becoming more common.

What do I mean by “much younger?” Well, I am certainly not an expert on what has long been known as May-December romances. But to me, I’d say that it is at least a 20-year age difference. And I’ve known couples that are even 40 or 50 years apart in age.

Typically when I see such a May-December couple my first thought goes to, “I wonder how much the cougar spends on his/her partner?” I guess I always just assume it is about money and perhaps, control. Again, I assume the older partner is the more dominate one in the relationship.

But is that assumption really accurate or I am just feeding into stereotypes? After doing some limited research, I must confess I was genuinely feeding into stereotypes.

I started my research online (who doesn’t nowadays?) and joined a dating site for older men looking for younger men.. This was much less a dating website than it was a hookup site. In fact, I kept my profile to a minimum by not answering specific sex questions. I was actually quite shocked by the number of 65-plus-year-old men who were blatantly forward in their quest for a quickie – most of the time they didn’t even say “hi” when messaging me on the site.

Not all men on the site were there for sex. There were a few genuine guys that were true gentleman. They

attempted to have a somewhat normal conversation with me, even asking such mundane questions as “how are you?” and “how is the weather?” After about an hour in the online chat room, I’d say I talked to about 9-10 men. And out of that number maybe two were there for more than just sex.

Since I personally prefer men my own age, I began to feel like I was leading on the others in the chat room. So once I had enough notes on online cougar dating, I quickly exited.

The second part of my research began by calling one of my best friends. Although Jacob is 42, he was only 23 when he met Bill, his partner of 18 years. There was a 33-year age difference between them and Bill passed away last year at the age of 73.

Bill was already retired when he met Jacob so they spent 18 years travelling and enjoying life. Now in his early 40s, Jacob was left with a nice trust fund. And if he manages his money well, he’ll never have to work.

I asked Jacob if Bill’s money was one of the reasons he was attracted to Bill. “I have to admit it was,” he said. “Well, not really the money. It was about the security the money provided us. The ability to travel and spend much more time together than a couple in a traditional relationship would be able to spend together.” That does kind of make sense to me. After all, money problems are certainly one of the main reasons relationships don’t work out.

“So it wasn’t really about money,” Jacob went on to say.

“It was about security. I trusted Bill’s maturity. I always felt like his life experiences meant something and I could learn from him.” While unconventional to me, I have to admit that Jacob and Bill’s relationship always seemed really positive.

So based on one trip to an online dating service for mature men and a twenty minute conversation with my friend Jacob, I certainly know I am not an expert on the subject of intergenerational dating. While I don’t think it is right for me, I’m no longer quite so skeptical when I see a May-December couple.

When it comes right down to it, relationships, like the people in them, come in all shapes, sizes and needs – it only has to work for the individuals involved. (Oh, and I asked Jacob where he met Bill – he still hasn’t told me.)

RYAN O’CONNER is just a regular guy who is dating in this great big world. His advice comes from personal experience and his advice is for entertainment purposes only. We recommend you consult a physician, counselor or therapist in your area for specific advice about your personal situation. Otherwise, questions can be submitted to bedroom@competenetwork.com.

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| COMPETE | August 2016

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