ABOUT US
Welcome to Surf & Sun Softball, where the thrill of the game meets the warmth of community. Nestled in the vibrant landscapes of Long Beach and Orange County, we're more than a softball league — we're a family. Providing a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQ community and beyond, we're proud affiliates of International Pride Softball (IPS, formerly NAGAAA) and ASANA, opening the door to World Series Tournaments and a spectrum of play levels from beginners to advanced. In the spirit of camaraderie, our league transcends geographical boundaries, drawing players from all corners of Southern California. We're not just LGBTQ-friendly; we're everyone-friendly. Whether you're here to master the game, make lifelong friends, or simply revel in the joy of softball, you've found your home base.
MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of this League is to provide an opportunity for individuals to play organized softball in an environment that is safe, healthy, and free of negative attitudes based on differences in sexual orientation/identity, race, age, creed, religion, or national origin; to promote good sportsmanship; to promote the welfare of its members and the community; to promote the development of positive relationships among its members and the community; and to organize and promote participation by its members in such athletic, social, cultural, or charitable events as may serve the preceding purposes.
JOIN US in creating a gay-friendly atmosphere where every player and fan belongs.
OUR HISTORY
Our story is etched in every swing, catch, and home run. Born as the Southwest Athletic Team Supports (SWATS), we joined forces with NAGAAA in 1983, marking the genesis of a legacy. The Surf and Sun Liberty Classic debuted in 1985, becoming an annual celebration uniting teams from across the nation and Canada. Evolution was inevitable, and in the '90s, we welcomed the Women's Division, morphing into the Long Beach / Orange County Surf and Sun Softball League. In 2001, the Cranberry Cup made a brief appearance, setting the stage for the California Quake in 2005, a testament to our league's growth and adaptability. As the echoes of our history resonate, we stand proud, cherishing each game played each victory, and each stride toward inclusivity.
OUR FUTURE
The future of Surf & Sun Softball is a canvas painted with passion, dedication, and endless possibilities. With every season, our league grows stronger, fueled by the commitment of our board of directors. As more athletes lend their talents to our cause, the quality of play soars, and we look forward to a future where the thrill of softball under the sun continues to unite us all.
JOIN US in shaping the chapters to come, where the legacy of Surf & Sun Softball is not just remembered but created with every swing of the bat .
INTERNATIONAL PRIDE SOFTBALL (IPS)
Dive into the vibrant world of International Pride Softball (IPS), formerly known as NAGAAA (North American Gay Amateur Athletics Alliance). IPS serves as a beacon of opportunity and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community, offering a stage where passion meets competition. Within the confines of organized softball, IPS creates a competitive and safe environment, inviting players to showcase their skills, forge connections, and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship. Join us under the banner of IPS, where every game is a testament to unity, resilience, and the joy of the game.
AMATEUR SPORTS ALLIANCE OF NORTH AMERICA (ASANA)
In 2007, the Amateur Sports Alliance of North America (ASANA) emerged as a non-profit force dedicated to championing LGBTQ+ cis women, trans men, trans women, and non-binary individuals in the realm of organized amateur athletics. ASANA isn't just an organization; it's a movement, carving out space for diverse identities to thrive within the tapestry of sports. Committed to promoting participation and breaking down barriers, ASANA stands as a testament to the power of inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has a rightful place on the field. Join ASANA, where every game is a step toward equality, empowerment, and the sheer joy of being part of something extraordinary.
Surf & Sun is a California Non-Profit 501 (c)(3) Corporation.