ORGANIZATION | Inducted 1992
The Metropolitan Sports Association (MSA) was originally formed in 1978 as the Gay Athletic Association and incorporated in 1979 as an Illinois not for profit corporation. Originally the only athletic program was a 16-inch softball league. Since then MSA has expanded its programs to include 11″ and 12″ softball, basketball, bowling, football, tennis, and volleyball. Each program contains multiple levels of play to accommodate both highly skilled and competitive athletes as well as lesser skilled and recreational athletes.
The organizational objectives of MSA, to provide competitive league and recreational activities for gay men and lesbians, is grounded in the recognition of the need to provide positive role models and opportunities to develop good will, understanding and friendship within Chicago’s lesbian and gay community. It is recognized as a leader in the Midwest and the nation in providing organized athletic activities, including local, national, and international athletic events.
MSA actively sponsors and supports athletic competitions in support of agencies providing services to Chicago’s lesbian and gay community. The Athletes Against AIDS program raises funds to assist its members and support community organizations providing services to persons living with HIV disease and AIDS.
Membership in MSA has increased each year of its existence. Current annual membership exceeds 1700 members of the gay and lesbian community equally divided between men and women. MSA is the largest regional lesbian and gay sports association in the country. In both 1983 and 1984 MSA was named Organization of the Year by Gay Chicago Magazine.
Please note: this information has not been updated since the time of the organization’s induction.