What we’re about
What is Sporty Girls*?
Sporty Girls started as a group of friends getting together to play informal, pick-up-type outdoor sports and games. We encourage women* of any age or skill level -- including beginners or "never played" -- to come try a new (or old) sport and "just play," without an emphasis on being "good" or winning. Everybody is involved; nobody sits on the sidelines unless they want to. Most important -- when we play team sports, we don't do schoolyard picks, so nobody is ever "last."
What do we play?
Frisbee/Ultimate, badminton, kickball, flag football, street hockey, bocce, pickleball, and more. We're always open to suggestions for new things to play.
When do we play?
In 2025 we have scheduled at least one event per month (except for December).
Where do we play, and how much does it cost?
The location depends on what we're playing. We play at parks and schools throughout the South Bay -- usually public venues so that it's free. If a fee is ever required, we'll tell you.
Note: Since the Organizers pay to maintain this site and occasionally have to purchase equipment and replenish supplies, we do accept donations at our events to offset these costs. Or you can donate on the Home page. Many thanks!
*Who can play?
We are an inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly group. If you identify as a woman or a nonbinary or trans person, you are welcome!
Why "no guys allowed"? (By "guys" we mean cisgender men.) Our events provide (among other things) a confidence-building environment for people, especially women, to learn and play sports and games that they might not have felt comfortable trying in school or were actually excluded from because they were female. Our atmosphere differs from a co-ed one: we promote inclusion, equality, and acceptance of each person's level of experience; whereas when cisgender men are present, those age-old gender roles can sneak in and change the dynamic -- introducing, e.g., an increased level of competition, more intense physicality, or simply that subtle (subconscious?) expectation about abilities between the traditional sexes. Even if your cisgender male partner wouldn't do this, if we let one play, we'd have to let them all play. Thank you for understanding!
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, feel free to bring your children -- girls of any age, boys age 12 and under, and nonbinary and trans teens. If what we are playing is kid-friendly and you want them to try the game, they can join in. But we probably won't let little ones play if we think they'll get run over in fast-paced games like ultimate frisbee or big ball soccer.
What kind of shape should I be in, or what if I have an old injury that slows me down?
We DO NOT discriminate, period. You can play with us no matter your age or physical condition.
Although some of the sports and games we play do require physical exertion (running), you should always only play to your comfort level. We will not judge you for taking a breather as often as you need to. (In fact, please do!)
If you have a bad knee or ankle, bring your brace or other support, especially if we are playing on natural grass, which can have hidden divots, clumps, sprinklers, and gopher holes. If you have a disability, we'll try to modify how we play so you can get in the game.
We will huddle up before each game to stretch, warm up, and talk about ways to play safely and minimize the risk of getting hurt. We also try to take three to four water breaks per hour (depending) to keep everyone hydrated. Ultimately, however, all Sporty Girls events are "play at your own risk."
What should I bring and wear?
Always bring water and maybe a snack.
We provide most of the equipment, but we'll let you know if you should bring something. Also, if you have extras of any equipment, please bring them to lend out. (Put your name on your stuff with a Sharpie.)
Wear comfortable clothing for the expected weather and type of event (shorts or sweats, t-shirt or sweatshirt). Jeans are not great for running but are OK for, say, bocce. Wear any type of sneakers for most events; if you want more traction, you can wear sneakers with "turf"-type soles (but please, no cleats).
Follow Us
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SportyGirlsSJ/
On Twitter: @SportyGirlsSJ
Questions or Suggestions?
- If you have trouble finding us on the day of an event, call or text 408-313-6930.
- To suggest a sport, game, or location, or if you have a question, email sportygirlssj@gmail.com.
- If you want to be a co-organizer, send me an email to discuss! We want more people to organize Sporty events.
