Pickleball:Pride, paddles, and plenty of new friends—made one dink at a time
Founded in 2026, Stonewall Pickleball DC was launched to meet the growing demand for the nation’s fastest-growing sport and to create a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies to connect, compete, and build community.
Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned veteran, our league is designed for all skill levels. Join us for our inaugural season and become part of a new tradition built on pride, friendship, competition, and fun.
Come for the pickleball. Stay for the community.
I. Overview
Stonewall Pickleball DC was founded in 2026 in response to the explosive growth of pickleball and the increasing demand for opportunities for LGBTQIA+ athletes to connect through sport. Built on the belief that sports should be inclusive, welcoming, and community-centered, our league provides a place where players of all backgrounds and experience levels can compete, socialize, and thrive.
We are proud to be one of the leagues under Stonewall Sports DC, the DC chapter of Stonewall Sports, Inc., a registered nonprofit organization. Alongside Pickleball, Stonewall Sports DC brings together leagues in kickball, tennis, climbing, bocce, and other sports, having welcomed more than 12,000 members across the chapter since its founding in 2010.
As an LGBTQIA+ league, we are committed to creating a space where every participant can show up as their authentic self. We believe organized sports should be affordable, accessible, and rooted in a genuine commitment to strengthening our community. Through Stonewall Sports, our league supports charitable organizations and contributes to a broader movement built on pride, inclusion, service, and play.
League Divisions
To provide the best possible experience for players of varying skill levels, Stonewall Pickleball DC offers three divisions based on the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) system (reference chart for rating):
The Relish Division (DUPR 2.0–2.5)
Designed for beginners or, newer players, and developing competitors, this division emphasizes learning, skill development, sportsmanship, and fun. Whether you’re new to the game or continuing to build confidence on the court, this division provides a welcoming environment to improve your skills while meeting new friends.
Volley Viper Division (2.5 – 3.5)
Sizzling Aces Division (DUPR 3.5–4.0+)
Designed for experienced and competitive players, this division offers higher-level play for those seeking more advanced strategy, consistency, and competition. Players in this division should have a strong understanding of the game and be comfortable competing against similarly skilled opponents.
Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or have years of experience on the court, Stonewall Pickleball DC offers a place to play, compete, and connect. Join us for our inaugural season and help build a new tradition rooted in pride, friendship, and community: one dink at a time.
II. Rules & Season Logistics
III. Schedule
Season 1 (Summer 2026) Schedule: COMING SOON!
July 8 to August 19, 2026 (Wednesday nights)
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Kraken Bryant Street
514 Rhode Island Ave NE
Washington, DC 20002
IV. About Us
Leadership
| Nik Bihlmeyer Commissioner | |||
| Orlando Gonzales At Large League Manager | Seth Guidry Communications Manager | James Swart Finance Manager | Nick Murphy Events + Engagement Manager |
Open Roles:
Our league runs because of people who care. If that sounds like you, we’re always looking for passionate volunteers to help lead and grow Stonewall Pickleball DC — and we’d love to hear from you.
- Manager, Events + Engagement
- At-Large Member (3 Open Positions)
Learn More about the Open Roles or Apply Today!
V. SSDC Pickleball Champions
Coming Soon…
Follow SSDC Pickleball on Instagram for more information!