GRIFFIN September 2026

September 2026 • CWEA GRIFFIN • 7 The St. Louis Gay and Lesbian Association of Summer Softball (known as GLASS) is a slowpitch, co-ed softball league that plays on Sundays at Forest Park Boeing Aviation Fields. The nonprofit was established in 1990 as an inclusive, safe space for LGBTQ+ people and allies who love playing soft- ball. Recent seasons average 200 to 300 players. As a member of International Pride Softball, GLASS sends more than More than a game: St. Louis GLASS builds community through softball By Abby Wojcik 12 teams each year to tournaments across the country, including the Gay Softball World Series and its own lo- cal tournament, the Arch Invitational. Beyond the two softball sessions in the spring and fall, GLASS con- ducts training clinics, athletic edu- cation, an awards banquet, drag and karaoke socials and opportunities to give back to the community. Every season offers a chance to see famil- iar faces and be a part of a unique community through sports. “It was nice [for my husband and me] to be able to find some- where where we can be a part of the LGBTQ community in a way that isn’t necessarily at the bars. We’ve made essentially all of our gay friends through softball,” said GLASS Recruitment Director John Tocco. GLASS is working to expand its reach and build a more diverse league. They’ve partnered with ASANA, a growing lesbian, non- binary and trans softball league. The St. Louis Sirens will be the first St. Louis team to compete at the ASANA tournament held this year in Arizona. Any experience level is welcome, and new players will be met with enthusiasm, encouragement and patient coaching, if needed. There are divisions based on competitive interest and a skill-level rating scale. From players who grew up on the field to those who’ve never worn a glove, GLASS is an atmo- sphere where people are having fun, making friends and improving along the way. The Sliding Rabbits coach and 2017 GLASS Hall of Fame induct- ee Eric Browning grew up playing baseball, but hadn’t been on a team for a few years when he came upon a newspaper article about the gay soft- ball league. When he joined GLASS, he was surprised that opposing teams used to share a bench instead of sitting separately and noticed it was easy to get to know people. “A lot of my friends today I met through softball, and I think a lot of people have that story. I think that says a lot about this league,” Brown- ing said. Central West End resident Joe Caldwell signed up in 2015 after initially being very hesitant. After overcoming that fear, he wanted to help the league grow, eventually running for board secretary and later becoming assistant commis- A runner is sent home from third base at a GLASS softball game in Forest Park. John Tocco up to bat during Skills Day. Abby Wojcik photos Continued on Page 10