LGBTQ Sacramento Sports

by Matt Burlingame

Throughout our community’s history, LGBTQ sports have provided a safe space to foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Sacramento boasts an array of amazing sports groups that welcome and encourage participation at all levels. Regardless of the sport, or if one is a spectator or participant, these organizations inspire a sense of achievement and empowerment that members of our community are often cheated out of. Here is a list of groups you can join if you are interested in getting involved in your community.

Bowling

The River City Bowlers league has a long and rich history. Established in 1977-78, this thriving group initially bowled at Alhambra Bowl in downtown Sacramento. Starting with less than 20 teams, participation soared to 44 teams in the 2nd season, prompting a move to AMF Land Park Bowl, where they continue to play a full winter schedule and a shortened summer season. Catering to bowlers of all skill levels, the league proudly supports the Gay Games event and has produced numerous medal winners since 1982. A friendly venue for the LGBT community, River City Bowlers also holds the distinction of being a member of the International Gay Bowling Organization (IGBO). The group bowls Sundays 6 p.m. at the AMF Land Park Lanes, 5850 Freeport Blvd. rivercitybowlers.com

Join the fun at Game On Bowling Organization (GO-BO), a vibrant bowling league and tournament in Sacramento, California. Founded in 2013 by bowling enthusiasts, GO-BO welcomes adults of all types to enjoy entertaining and fabulous bowling experiences. Find out more about their events and schedules by looking them up on

The OutLoud Sacramento Bowling league is an 8-week recreational bowling league that takes place at Bowlero North Sacramento, 4800 Madison Ave. Teams of 4 compete in 3 games per week. Worried about your bowling skills? No problem! Everyone gets a handicap to help improve their scores. All players, regardless of age, experience, or sexuality, are welcome to join in on the fun. The Summer registration is now closed, but there are seasonal signups, so keep checking in! (outloudsports.com)

Cheerleading

Established in 1999, Cheer Sacramento serves as a creative outlet for adult individuals while raising funds for local nonprofits. The organization values diversity and fosters an empowering environment that celebrates individuals of all genders, gender expressions, identities, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and body shapes. Cheer Sacramento welcomes individuals to join either as Performing Members or as part of the Event Support Team. Cheer Sacramento’s Season 24 registration for tryouts opens on Feb. 1, 2024. The season runs from May to April, with a focus on their largest NorCal Pride Tour to date during the summer. (cheersacramento.org)

Kickball

Sacramento Kickball is gearing up for an exciting Fall 2023 season, and registration will be opening soon for kickball enthusiasts of all skill levels. Participants can choose from two divisions: Beginner/Intermediate League or Intermediate/Advanced League. The league welcomes individuals of all sexualities, genders, and personalities. Whether you’re a free agent seeking a team or part of a small group or existing team, Sacramento Kickball invites you to join the fun. Registration is open until Aug. 16. Late registration will be open until Aug. 27. The season runs from Sept. 9 to Nov. 11 at Tahoe Park, with Roscoe’s Bar and Grill sponsoring the league. (outloudsports.com)

RUNNING/WALKING/HIKING

FrontRunners/FrontWalkers Sacramento was founded in 1992 and is still going strong. The group offers year-round activities, including weekly runs and walks on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. from McKinley Park and Saturdays at 8 a.m. from Guy West Bridge. There are also monthly BBQs, picnics, brunches, and more. All fitness levels are welcome to participate. Don’t miss out on the fun—join their vibrant community today! (frontrunners.org)

Discover the camaraderie and adventure with Gay & Lesbian Sierrans (GLS) Mother Lode chapter! Established in 1996, this friendly group of around 130 lesbians and gay men is passionate about outdoor activities and environmental conservation. Join them for day hikes, weekend camping trips, and more while making new friends in a comfortable atmosphere. All are welcome to participate, no Sierra Club membership required. (sierraclub.org/mother-lode/ gay-lesbian-sierrans)

Softball

The Sacramento Valley Gay & Lesbian Softball League (SVGLS) offers the opportunity to play softball while providing an inclusive space for individuals to learn new skills, make new friends, and, above all, have a great time. Whether you’re a new player or a returning one, there’s a place for you. New players can register as Free Agents and receive guidance on which division best suits their skills. Sports play a vital role in bringing people together, building connections, and fostering a sense of community. SVGLS recognizes the importance of these values and encourages individuals to be part of this fantastic league! Registration is now open for players of all skill levels. (svgl.org/registration)

Tennis

The Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Tennis (SGLT) was founded in July of 2011. Our organization provides opportunities for adults in the Sacramento and surrounding communities to come play tennis and socialize in an enjoyable environment. (sgltennis.org)

There have been many LGBTQ sports in Sacramento that have come and gone, and more just waiting for you to discover them, or perhaps even start your own team. Check out the following websites to keep up to date with more sports leagues in the area: United States Gay Sports Network: usgsn.com/ sacramento and OutLoud Sports Sacramento: Outloudsports.com/sacramento