OCTOBER 1, 1993

GAY PEOPLE's Chronicle 23

SPORTS

Volleyball tourney is

a 'labor of love'

by Troy May

More than 200 men and women from across the country flocked to Columbus last month to compete in a labor of love "the Labor of Love Classic" volleyball tournament.

Hosted by the Columbus Owls, the tournament was the first of what organizers plan to make an annual event. "It was a success and we are already planning next year's tournament," said D. J. Thrush, tournament director.

The tournament drew 23 teams from as far away as Phoenix, Arizona, Thrush said. It was held at the Cleo Dumaree Athletic Facility near Franklin Park.

The Chicago Assaults were the overall winners, as well as winners in the AA division. Other division winners were D. C. Bohica (A), Chicago Roscoe's (BB) and Ohio Sting (B), a team composed of players from Columbus and Dayton.

The Owls, who had teams competing in all four divisions, finished third in AA. Explaining why they didn't do better, Thrush said, half-joking, "We were all too exhausted from planning the tournament."

More important than who won or lost was the camaraderie the tournament inspired. "We as gays and lesbians face enough

bad attitudes toward our community," he said. "This sport acts as a very friendly, supportive environment."

The event, which included an awards banquet at Berwick Manor Party House, was sanctioned by the North American Gay Volleyball Association, whose members compete in about 35 tournaments each year in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Columbus tournament was sponsored by Miller Lite, the Robbins Co. (a local beer distributor), Guest Quarters Suite Hotel, David's on Main and local gay bars. "We were really pleased to have national sponsorship," Thrush said. "Miller Lite came through with tremendous financial support."

Thrush said he expects 40 to 60 teams to compete in next year's tournament, which will be held at Ohio State University. “Miller Lite and Robbins Co. have already signed on as sponsors," he said.

The Owls, who have five teams altogether, were formed about three years ago, Thrush noted. They practice at Berliner Park and travel out of town at least once a month to compete. "Everyone is welcome," he said. "We take people who have never played before and teach them positive techniques in a friendly atmosphere."

For more information about joining the Owls, call Thrush at 444-6607.

Agay in the life. by John Sieruta

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