WASHINGTON – Team DC, the charitable organization established to educate the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community on the benefits of individual and team sports participation, announced new leadership. Team DC serves as the association for the over 40 member teams and leagues in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. The organization works within the broader community to dispel discrimination against LGBTQ people participating in sports; awards scholarships to LGBTQ student-athletes; provides a network of sporting outlets for the LGBTQ community of the Washington Metropolitan area; and promotes participation in local, regional, national, and international amateur sports competitions.
“Team DC is an important part of the broader LGBTQ community in the DMV region and even across the country, as many local athletes participate in traveling teams, as well as international and national tournaments and competitions. The local sports community is made stronger by the vibrant and robust LGBTQ teams and leagues that gather in our parks, rec centers and other indoor venues every day of the week. I am proud to help lead Team DC in our next chapter and continue to ensure that our LGBTQ athletes and players have the opportunity to enjoy team sports and activities, that we continue to partner with professional teams on our Night Out series, and that we expand and grow our college scholarship program for LGBTQ high school athletes,” said Miguel Ayala, Team DC President.
The new Executive Council of Team DC is:
President – Miguel Ayala
Miguel has served on the Team DC board since 2014, most recently as the Secretary. He is active in the Stonewall Kickball and DC Fray LGBTQ leagues and was previously involved in the DC Gay Basketball League and DC FrontRunners. He is proud to have completed the Marine Corps Marathon and several half-marathon runs. He has also worked in DC’s queer bar scene as the Events Manager at the DC Eagle. Outside of the LGBTQ community, he serves as Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Alumni Association for his fraternity, Sigma Lambda Beta. Miguel has over two decades of political experience, including campaign work in swing states, serving in President Obama’s administration, and serving as a communications specialist for various Democratic Congressional offices.
Vice President – Grace Thompson
Team DC’s mission statement of “Building Community Through Sports”, speaks to Grace’s personal values within our community and movement through sports and connection. Grace has served on Team DC’s board since 2014. Her first role was as a member of Team Outreach where she spent several years liaising with many of our member organizations. In addition to her work with Team DC she also serves on the board of the Federation of Gay Games since 2019. She spends her off the clock time, toggling between a range of different sports from rock climbing, triathlon(70.3), cycling, Stand-up paddle boarding and distance running(12 Marathons, 3-50K’s).
Secretary – Taylor Jay Nelson
Most recently serving as Team DC Social Media Coordinator, Taylor Jay is excited to take on the new role of Secretary. He is active in Rouge Darts, rugby, and other DMV recreational sports, Taylor Jay is ready to bring some new energy to the Executive Council. Besides being an avid sports fan Taylor Jay has over 10 years of experience in government and public affairs. Taylor Jay is a proud U.S. Army Veteran and hopes to bring those leadership skills to the Team DC Board.
Treasurer – Patrick Woods
Patrick has been a long-time Team DC supporter and most recently served on the Team DC scholarship committee. He is an avid hiker, tennis player, and a former professional dancer. He has been active with Stonewall and DC Fray kickball since 2012. Patrick brings over 15 years working in the non-profit sphere. He is currently a non-profit operations and events consultant in DC. He is excited to help Team DC reach new strategic and financial goals.
Team DC’s commitment to excellence and growth in LGTBQ sports and community will continue with this new executive council, which includes Gabriel Hernandez as Night Out Chair and Charles Roth as Scholarship Chair, who are continuing in their roles. Their insights and experience will be invaluable as we embark on our next chapter of innovation. The new Executive Council envisions a bold new strategic plan to uphold the legacy and commitment to our member teams and the LGBTQIA+ community. As we transition, the Executive Council will carry out the organization’s day-to-day work, and we will be recruiting to fill our open board positions and for internship experiences fulfilling our mission. Planning is already underway for the upcoming Night Out series events, and the Night of Champions Gala on April 20, 2024. Interested individuals may contact us at [email protected].
