This past weekend, on Aug. 13, more than 1,000 people took to the beach on Cherry Grove for the annual LezVolley event. The tournament featured 25 teams with participants from all over the East Coast. New friendships were formed on the ferry ride over, while passengers chattered in excitement for the day’s events.
Kristine Bungay and Danielle Stanziale co-founded LezVolley in 2011. Starting with only eight teams, over a decade later it is 25 teams strong and has evolved from a smaller scale community gathering to appearing on hundreds of people’s summer bucket lists. LezVolley has teamed up with Gotham Volleyball, the largest gay sports organization in New York City, founded in 1981, which professionally officiates all the tournaments.
The day stretched from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. with teams switching in and out of playing their respective games. Supporters cheered and players gave it their all. Following the long day in the sun was an official after party held at the Ice Palace, where players and their supporters shared their successful day over a drink.
Aside from watching the intense games, there were many souvenirs and snacks available for purchase, as well as voting for the fan’s favorite team, who received the Love, Shea Award. This year’s fan favorite was the Litty Titties, who sported hot pink tank tops during their games.
Two participants walking along the tournament were shouting exclaims about their winning score in the tournament. “Our team just won!” Madison Blank, a participant from the team K-OZ remarked, “We love playing, it’s one of our favorite events of the summer.” She and her friend, Jasmine, were just two of the hundreds of players seen on the beach, faces smiling with success.
The event has grown tremendously over the past 11 years, and is only getting better. This year featured the first DJ on the beach, making LezVolley history. This is one of the feel good Fire Island events of the summer. Catch it in 2023 if you can.
