Queer Sports in Portland

Portland gay volleyball

Here in Portland, we’re lucky to have queer teams, groups, and leagues in a variety of sports. If you’re looking for a specifically-inclusive athletic outlet, check out one (or more!) of these options.

Basketball: The Portland Gay Basketball Association has a men’s competitive rec team that competes in the Portland Basketball League. The PGBA also hosts an open gym, at which everyone is welcome, on Wednesday nights in Northwest.

Bowling: The Portland Community Bowling League has been around for over thirty years and was founded  as a means for queer folks to get together in a fun, relaxed setting. While many of the bowlers who participate with the PCBL are talented, skill is by no means a requirement. They bowl on Sundays at Hollywood Bowl in Northeast.

Kayaking: OutKayaking is open to kayakers of all skill levels. They usually host two paddles a month, one for beginners and one at the intermediate level. Paddles are often in the Portland area but also include overnight camping trips.

Outdoor Sports: The Adventure Group puts on hiking, camping, kayaking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, etc. events and trips, all of which are facilitated by a leader. They also host a walk on the waterfront every Saturday morning.

Running: The Portland Frontrunners is part of a worldwide consortium of over 100 queer running clubs. They hold three weekly runs that are open to runners and walkers of all skill levels: Tuesday evenings in the West Hills, Saturday mornings on the waterfront, and Sunday mornings in various neighborhoods in Northeast and Southeast. They also enter groups into local races.

Soccer: Netrippers F.C. features low-commitment practices and scrimmages to which everyone is welcome, as well as competitive men’s, women’s, and co-ed teams. They also host an annual summer tournament, and put on clinics for gay teens.

Softball: The Rose City Softball Association is the largest queer sports organization in the state. They play slow-pitch in two divisions, open and women’s.  Players of all levels are welcome. The RCSA also emphasizes charity and giving back to the community. Games take place on Sundays in Hillsboro, and practices are held at various locations on different days.

Tennis: Team Portland Tennis offers indoor tennis on Sunday nights at Glendoveer in outer Northeast. They also sponsor an annual tournament that raises money for the Q Center, Cascade AIDS Project, and Portland After School Tennis & Education.

Volleyball: Portland Gay Volleyball competes in the North American Gay Volleyball Association as well as hosts one-day grass tournaments. They also host an open gym on Sunday afternoons in Northwest.

Check out the websites linked here for more details. And get out there and start playing!