Formed in 1977, IPS (International Pride Softball) formerly NAGAAA is a 501c(3) international sports organization comprised of men and women dedicated to providing opportunity and access for the LGBT community to participate in organized softball competition in safe environments. Currently, more than 20,000 players from 54 member cities a
Formed in 1977, IPS (International Pride Softball) formerly NAGAAA is a 501c(3) international sports organization comprised of men and women dedicated to providing opportunity and access for the LGBT community to participate in organized softball competition in safe environments. Currently, more than 20,000 players from 54 member cities across Canada and the United States participate in leagues, and the best of these teams converge once a year for head-to-head competition at the annual Gay Softball World Series.
In 2017, IPS celebrated its 40th Anniversary (1977-2017).For over four decades IPS has been a safe place for LGBT athletes to compete. Member cities compete in seven divisions — A, B, C, D, E, Masters C and Masters D..
Founded in 1981, the Southern New England Friendship Softball League was of one the first NAGAAA members, now IPS (International Pride Softball). We seek to promote the positive social and athletic enjoyment of softball. Through our league, our events and most importantly our players, we also seek to foster and augment the self-respect a
Founded in 1981, the Southern New England Friendship Softball League was of one the first NAGAAA members, now IPS (International Pride Softball). We seek to promote the positive social and athletic enjoyment of softball. Through our league, our events and most importantly our players, we also seek to foster and augment the self-respect and to engender respect and understanding from the gay community. While particular emphasis is placed on these specific goals, it is a fundamental principle of the Southern New England Friendship Softball League that all activities, social and athletic, are conducted to be inclusive in nature and that no individual shall be excluded from participating on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, political beliefs, athletic ability or physical challenge.
The league is an active member of IPS. We were founded to provide a league open and inclusive to all regardless of race, religion, age, gender expression or sexual orientation.
SNEFSL plays double-header slowpitch softball games Sundays in a Spring/Summer Season. We aren't just about softball! We host numerous parties and events throughout the year including an Opening Community Day, and End of Season Awards Ceremony. Our teams also host happy hours and fundraisers.
Playing with the SNEFSL is a great way to get involved in the LGBTQ+ Community both on and off the field.
Want to Join!?
Have any questions?
Would you like to join our league?
Click on email or phone and contact any of our board members and we would be happy to help walk you through player registration and fit you with a team!
Board Members
Commissioner: Adge Hedwall
Assistant Commissioner: Calvin Interiano
Treasurer: Jeffrey Hig
Want to Join!?
Have any questions?
Would you like to join our league?
Click on email or phone and contact any of our board members and we would be happy to help walk you through player registration and fit you with a team!
Board Members
Commissioner: Adge Hedwall
Assistant Commissioner: Calvin Interiano
Treasurer: Jeffrey Higgins
Athletic Director: Peter Castellani
Team Delegates
Team Delegate: Bobby Wilson
Team Delegate: Kevin Rossmeisl
Team Delegate: Tim Bonefas
Team Delegate: Josh Kassoy
Team Delegate: Calvin Interiano
IS SNEFSL ONLY OPEN TO THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY?
No! While the league is marketed predominantly in the LGBTQ+ community, anyone, regardless of sexual orientation and/or gender identity, is welcome to play in our league. Playing in our league should not be considered an indicator of any particular sexual orientation or gender identity.
IS SNEFSL ONLY OPEN TO THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY?
No! While the league is marketed predominantly in the LGBTQ+ community, anyone, regardless of sexual orientation and/or gender identity, is welcome to play in our league. Playing in our league should not be considered an indicator of any particular sexual orientation or gender identity.
In the spring season teams will play an average of ten weekends (around 20 games total) including a playoff tournament weekend.
Our Spring Season Player Fee is $50.
This league fee covers the cost of field permits, equipment bases, softballs, first-aid kits, and trophies, and various other league operational expenses.
Each player may also need to pay an additional $100-$200, to help their team cover the cost of uniforms, supplementary insurance, and umpire fees. Some teams defray this cost by getting sponsors/partners such as local bars, restaurants or small businesses. The more sponsors/partners pay, the less you do!
Interested in Sponsoring a team? Contact us.
Most teams have bats to share, or they buy them collectively out of team funds. You are expected to provide your own fielder’s glove and rubber-soled cleats, sneakers are allowed but metal cleats.
If you are new to softball and aren’t sure which glove to get check out this helpful guide. You specifically want a glove for slowpitch softball.
Some of our games are played on grass fields and others on turf.
While we try our best to ensure players end up on teams that are a good fit for their skill level and interests, we know that we don’t always get it right.
SNEFSL wants to ensure that all players have a positive and fun experience in our league.
We offer a place for players of all skill levels to play softball in a friendly and fun environment.
The league is currently divided into open (mixed gender) division. We have a place for everyone!
Season Sponsors
Orange, CT
New Haven, CT
Hartford, CT
Cromwell, CT
Middletown, CT
Norwich, CT
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