As We Enter our 20th Year, Compete Sports Diversity Becomes Compete Sports Network — And Steps Boldly Into the Future to Advance Sports For All™

By Brandon Paul

What began as a niche voice for LGBTQ+ athletes and sports inclusion has, over the past two decades, grown into a national movement. Now, as we enter our 20th year this August, we look back with pride and forward with purpose. Today, Compete Sports Diversity is stepping into a new era—with a new name: Compete Sports Network.

The rebrand, announced this week, represents more than a name change. It’s a declaration of the organization’s growth and a signal of our evolving role as a major player in the world of welcoming sports media and marketing.

“This isn’t just a name change—it’s stepping into the future,” said Eric Carlyle, SDLT, founder and CEO. “We’re building something much bigger than a brand. We’re creating a true network—a living, breathing system that connects people, amplifies purpose, and uses the power of sports to transform lives and communities.”

From the start, Compete was created to uplift athletes often left on the sidelines. That mission expanded over time to include adaptive athletes, women’s sports advocates, seniors, minority-led leagues, and tourism partners looking to tap into the inclusive sports space.

Today, with its broadened focus, Compete Sports Network serves as a dynamic platform linking grassroots organizations, major brands, professional teams, nonprofits, and civic leaders through a shared commitment to equity in athletics.

As part of its next chapter, the organization is rolling out new initiatives:

• An expanded slate of live events, showcasing underrepresented communities across recreational, Olympic, and professional sports

• On-demand webinars and training, tailored to the unique needs of sports organizations and tournament operators around the globe 

• The Sports For All™ Podcast, offering timely analysis and interviews on the evolving intersection of sports, tourism, development, and inclusion

• Elevated benefits and visibility for members of the Compete Sports Council and its growing partner network 

“Compete has always been ahead of the curve,” said Trayer Martinez, SDLT, Vice President of Sports. “This transformation isn’t just about keeping pace—it’s about setting the pace for how sports can serve as a force for equity, community building, and economic development.”

Despite the shift in name, Compete’s core mission remains unchanged:

To connect, educate, empower, and inspire mission-driven sports organizations, non-profits, tourism partners, corporate allies, community leaders, and athletes to further Sports For All™ through our membership, media, and event platforms.

That mission, once centered on LGBTQ+ visibility in sports, now fuels an ever-expanding community that believes sports can—and should—reflect the full spectrum of human experience.

As it heads into its 20th year this summer, Compete Sports Network looks back with pride—and forward with purpose.

“We’ve built something powerful,” Carlyle said. “And now, we’re ready to take it even further.”