Nominations opened for national LGBTQ+ sports leadership award
The world’s largest LGBTQ+ sporting event, The Sin City Classic Sports Festival, opened nominations for the 5th annual Ken Scearce Leadership Award, which recognizes individuals whose leadership strengthens LGBTQ+ sports leagues nationwide. The honor celebrates the late Ken Scearce, the festival’s former executive director.
“Ken absolutely loved having the opportunity to bring together LGBTQ+ athletes… and surround himself with friends from across the country who shared his passion for queer athletics,” said co-executive director Dr. Jason Peplinski. “This honor truly embodies the role Ken played in shaping our tournament and the thousands of participants who attend.”
The award highlights athletes, coaches, referees, officials, and volunteers who grow their sport, uplift their teams, lead with passion, and give back to the LGBTQ+ community. Nominations can be submitted online or via email using the festival’s official form.
Past recipients include Andrew Miller (2022), Tommy Otterbine (2023), Mark Hedelund (2024), and CJ Kelly (2025).
Founded in 2008 by the Greater Los Angeles Softball Association, the Sin City Classic has expanded from a softball tournament into a massive multi-sport festival attracting roughly 10,000 athletes and fans. This year’s roster features 24 sports, including basketball, dodgeball, cheerleading, soccer, pickleball, wrestling, and both indoor and sand volleyball.
Nominations can be sent here.
