MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Gay Sports Network is working to promote different LGBTQ+ sports organizations in the city.
The Milwaukee Metro Tennis Club is one of those leagues. The group prides itself on providing an outlet for anyone of any skill level to come out and play.
Maurice Perry, secretary of the club, said the group plays every Sunday.
“I love to play tennis to try to stay in shape for one, the camaraderie and also trying to get to do something outside of being in a bar, just kind of get to know new friends, new people and again just playing,” said Perry.
The Milwaukee Gay Sports Network also includes other sports leagues in the city, such as softball, rugby, darts, bowling and volleyball.
Perry explained the network began in 2011 with a simple premise: connecting people with the sports they love.
Perry said in one instance, people really wanted to bring back a basketball league the network used to have. The network, Perry said, provided them with the startup money to get the league up and running.
“Then once it gets going, they usually try to join the Milwaukee Gay Sports Network,” said Perry. “That is pretty much how we start with new leagues for something that was started and they need startup money to keep it going. That’s also a reason why we have Milwaukee Gay Sports Network to help any existing group that might struggling with financial needs.”
Brad Yates has been playing with the Milwaukee Metro Tennis Club for three years. He said it’s been a joy to be able to get back on the court after a spinal surgery.
Yates said the group is a great way to connect with people
“Tennis is great. It’s my sport. My husband actually plays on the rugby team, the Milwaukee Gay Rugby Team, and also plays on the Gay Volleyball League, so we kind of span them all,” said Yates. “We played softball years ago, so what’s great is that it seems to be a little sport for anybody.”
One of Perry’s favorite parts of the Milwaukee Metro Tennis Club is that over time, more straight allies have come out to play.
“Our goal is to where it doesn’t matter anymore, but it’s nice to have straight allies who are like, ‘I just want to play tennis. I don’t care. I appreciate you guys as a human being. It doesn’t matter your sexual preference. You’re just a human being.’ That’s what is really nice about it,” said Perry.
Perry said he hopes for that reason, the club will continue to grow. He also said he aims to promote more health and wellness in the LGBTQ+ community.