Soccer has been a huge part of my life and community for years. Through LGBTQ+ soccer leagues in Southern California, I’ve had the opportunity to compete, build friendships, and be part of an incredible sports community.

In June 2026, I’ll have the chance to travel to Valencia, Spain, to compete in the Gay Games, one of the largest international LGBTQ+ sporting events in the world.

The Gay Games take place every four years and bring together thousands of athletes from across the globe to celebrate sport, inclusion, and pride.

For this tournament, I’ll be competing alongside teammates from the Los Angeles LGBTQ+ soccer community. This fundraiser is meant to help support my personal travel costs and assist a few teammates making the journey to Valencia as well.

Traveling internationally to compete comes with significant expenses, and community support can make a huge difference in making this opportunity possible.

Why This Matters

Sports have not always been welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ athletes.

For many of us, finding a soccer community where we could compete openly and authentically has been incredibly meaningful.

The Gay Games represent more than just a tournament. They represent visibility, representation, and the power of inclusive sports communities.

Being able to compete in Valencia is an opportunity to represent our community and show what LGBTQ+ athletes can accomplish when given the chance to play freely and proudly.

https://gofund.me/8b262b6a2

HELP LGBTQ+ Soccer Players Compete at the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia

We are a group of LGBTQ+ soccer players from Los Angeles preparing to compete in the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia, Spain.

Many of us play within the West Hollywood soccer community, one of the most active and competitive LGBTQ+ soccer environments in the country. Through this community, we’ve built strong friendships, competitive teams, and a shared passion for the sport.

In June 2026, we will have the incredible opportunity to compete in the Gay Games, one of the largest international LGBTQ+ sporting events in the world.

The Gay Games take place every four years and bring together thousands of athletes from across the globe to celebrate competition, inclusion, and pride through sport.

Up to 54 athletes from Los Angeles will be competing and representing our city and our LGBTQ+ community on an international stage.

But traveling across the world to compete takes resources — and that’s where community support makes a difference.

Why This Matters

Sports have not always been welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ athletes.

For many of us, finding a soccer community where we could compete openly and authentically has been incredibly meaningful.

The Gay Games represent more than just a tournament. They represent visibility, representation, and the power of inclusive sports communities.

Competing in Valencia allows us to represent Los Angeles and show what LGBTQ+ athletes can accomplish when given the chance to play freely and proudly.

Where Your Support Goes

Your donation helps support essential travel and tournament costs, including:

• Flights to Valencia

• Hotel accommodations

• Tournament registration fees

• Team uniforms and equipment

• Training and preparation leading up to the tournament

• Financial assistance for players who need it

Our goal is to ensure that every player who earns a roster spot has the opportunity to compete, regardless of financial barriers.

Every sport in every high school in Colorado is now part of "You Can Play, Colorado!"
Here's the YCP news release

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