Frequently Asked Questions
The Boston Gay Basketball League is a well organized basketball league in the greater Boston area free from discrimination on the basis of race, religion, creed, gender, national origin or sexual orientation, with special emphasis on the participation of the gay community. The league promotes sportsmanship and camaraderie and fights to eliminate negative stereotypes associated with LGBT athletics. Beginners are always welcome, as are players of all experience.
1. When was the Gay Basketball League formed?
The league was formed in the Fall of 1994.
2. Where are games held?
All games are played at The South End Fitness Center in the Boston Medical Center. The link for directions to the gym is located on the homepage.
3. When does the season begin?
We will start the season in November. We have a mini-camp for all new players to attend. The camp last about 2 hours and consists of new players running through a few drills and playing pick-up games to give coaches a chance to evaluate players prior to the season’s draft. The date and time will be sent out in our Court Reporter in September. You can sign-up for our mailing list. The season concludes with playoffs and a banquet at the beginning of April.
4. How many games do you play?
We play 15 games during the season not including playoffs. Note: You must play more than half the games (8) to qualify for the season ending playoffs.
5. How many levels are there?
There are three divisions, Men's Division 1, Men's Division 2, and Women’s. Division 1 is for the more competitive/advanced player. Division 2 is for the recreational/intermediate and beginner player.
6. What days are games held?
The majority of games are played on Saturdays starting at 10 am and ending at 5:00 pm.
7. Are there games on other nights?
Yes. We also have games on Thursday nights.
8. I don't know that much about the game, can I still participate?
Absolutely. Beginners are always welcome, as are players of all experience.
9. How are the teams picked?
Players are chosen through a draft system by the league captains before the league begins. In order to keep the teams even, advanced players are encouraged to play in Competitive; while recreational, intermediate and beginner level players are encouraged to play in Recreational. Women are encouraged to play in the Women's Division.
10. Are there playoffs?
Yes. At the conclusion of each season the teams battle it out in playoffs to win their division championship followed by an end of the year banquet with trophies and awards.
11. Are there practice sessions?
Yes. We have practice every Thursday night. Practice is either at the Tobin Community Center or Madison Park. The address and directions are on the website.
12. How much does it cost to participate?
Player fees for the 2010-2011 season are $130 per player. That includes 15 games, playoffs and practice.
13. Do you have to be gay to play in the league?
Absolutely not. The league fosters an athletic environment free of discrimination for members and friends of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. It also promotes positive values in our community and will fight to eliminate negative stereotypes associated with LGBT athletics.
14. How does one become a sponsor of a team?
The teams are sponsored by a number of businesses around Boston—see the sponsor link on the website. To inquire about sponsorship and its benefits, send an email to the league.
15. Who is on the Board of Directors for the BGBL?
Officers:
Mikey Rickman, Commissioner
Matt McDonald, Assistant Commissioner of Division 1
Dereck Johnson, Assistant Commissioner of Division 2
Nick Sullivan, Secretary
Dan Ramnes, Treasurer
16. Who do I contact to sign up?
You can sign up to be put on the mailing list. If you have any questions, you may also contact the Commissioner, Mikey Rickman, at commissioner@bgbl.com
