First, thanks for all of the great email, website and Facebook comments about PGN’s new sports column. To answer a couple of questions: Yes, we will have at least one photo regularly. Yes, we will keep you updated on other events that have LGBT participants, such as the Broad Street Run. Yes, we are going to cover all sports, outdoor and in.
In fact, one of our favorite indoor sports organizations is the Spartan Wresting Club of Philadelphia. The Spartans just celebrated 20 years in January and show no signs of slowing down. Men and women of all skill levels are welcome to participate. In addition to grappling together, they occasionally put on demonstrations.
Stop in sometime and try it out. Practices are Monday nights and Saturday mornings at the First Unitarian Church, 2125 Chestnut St. For more information, go to www.phillyspartans.com.
Games after dark
Not those games; we’re talking about flag football here. Greater Philadelphia Flag Football League is diverging from its regular Saturday play for a special Friday Night Lights on April 13 at Columbus Playground, 12th and Wharton streets. The league has grown to eight teams and that means there are eight games played, two games at a time on side-by-side fields. The first four teams pair off rain or shine at 6:45 p.m.
The Philadelphia Freedom Band’s first GPFFL half-time show has been canceled, but the game’s the thing so pack some snacks, bring a lawn chair or hang out in the bleachers. Calling all strokers
Local sports umbrella organization Team Philadelphia is looking for people who want to paddle their way down the Schuylkill River in the sixth annual Independence Dragon Boat Regatta on June 2. A team has 21 participants with a minimum of eight women and competes in three 500-meter races. No experience is necessary and there will be three one-hour practice sessions. Email Bob Szwajkos at [email protected] for more info.
Coming up
• Falcons Soccer leaves the winter gymnasium next weekend. Beginning April 14, the Falcons hit the grass from 10 a.m.-noon every Saturday at Edgely Field in Fairmount Park; www.falcons-soccer.org.
• Philadelphia Liberty Belles’ home opener is April 21 at Northeast High School’s Charlie Martin Memorial Stadium, Bleigh and Glendale avenues; www.phillybelles.com.
• City of Brotherly Love Softball League’s opening day is April 22 in Fairmount Park. Opening day ceremonies start at noon; www.cblsl.org.
That’s it for this week. Until next time, get out and play!