LIL Tournament
About this Event
This is an annual tournament open to the Mabel League teams (though not required) and to external teams (subject to space constraints). Past tournaments have included teams from Victoria, Calgary, the Sunshine Coast and Washington state.
Operating since 1986 this is a marquee event in the season, with its signature Saturday costume parade and emphasis on community and fun. Good sporting behaviour and fun are mandatory! Many teams play in costume on Saturday and in pyjamas on Sunday morning.
2026 LIL Tournament
Dates: Thursday May 28 through Sunday May 31, 2026
Schedule: tbd
Weekend events:
- Teams play either Thursday or Friday evening game
- Games all day Saturday and Sunday morning
- Final games on Sunday midday onwards
- Teams play in costume on Saturday with a Costume Parade around midday
Notes
The name “LIL” stands for ‘Lesbian Information Line’ (a phone info line launched in 1976, now defunct). According to this Georgia Straight article:
“In 1986, Kate Stewart, a local activist who operated the Lesbian Information Line, created the LIL Tournament, one of the first events to bring local lesbian softball players together.”
In 1989 the Mabel League took it over, and it is now funded and run by Mabel League Executive and member volunteers.