When Derek Winn showed up to his first LGBTQ Volleyball Social game at Sunset Park, he didn’t know that he was walking into a legacy over 15 years in the making. Nor could he have guessed that joining this diverse community would not only enrich his social life, but ultimately help shape his business, PARCS Dentistry, into one of Las Vegas' most DEI-forward dental practices. As a newer member of the league, Derek offers a fresh lens on the importance of inclusive spaces, how equity is put into practice beyond buzzwords, and how social settings can ripple into profound personal and professional transformation.

"This is something special," he says. "I walked into a game and found a family."

The Legacy of Community

The league was founded by Johnny Espinosa, who started the group roughly 15 years ago with the goal of creating a safe, social, and welcoming space for queer athletes and allies. What began as a few friends hitting a ball around has evolved into a vibrant and expansive network of players, with roots that go deep into the community. Some members have been part of the league since its inception, while others, like Derek, are just starting to discover what makes it so powerful.

"There’s something really cool about stepping into a group where people have been playing together for 15 to 20 years," Derek explains. "There’s loyalty. There's history. And yet, as a rookie, you feel welcomed like you’ve always been part of it."

That welcoming spirit is a cornerstone of the league’s identity. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or haven’t played since high school gym class, there’s space for you here. It’s not about your resume; it’s about showing up.

Diversity in Action

Las Vegas is a city of transplants, and its LGBTQ+ community is no different. The volleyball league reflects that diversity in full color. "We have people from all walks of life," Derek says. "Different jobs, different incomes, different backgrounds. I’ve heard conversations in four different languages on the sidelines. It’s not just diverse on paper—it’s a living, breathing celebration of who we are."

That includes players across the LGBTQ spectrum and their allies. You’ll see everyone from nurses to bartenders, from artists to engineers, playing side by side. There are cisgender men and women, nonbinary players, trans folks, and people who simply show up with good energy and an open heart.

"The volleyball is the excuse," Derek says with a smile. "But the community is the point."

Equity, Not Just Equality

While diversity gets a lot of attention, the league has also been quietly championing equity – the idea that inclusion means more than treating everyone the same. It means meeting people where they are and ensuring everyone has the tools to participate.

"One thing people don’t realize is how intentional this league is about bringing people up," Derek explains. "Johnny set up Wednesday night training bootcamps for newer or less experienced players. Those sessions are led by the more advanced players who volunteer their time to teach."

That mentorship model not only improves gameplay but also deepens connection. It ensures that no one is left behind, and everyone has the chance to grow. Equity in this league means more than just a friendly environment; it means real structure to support every level of participation.

"You get people who show up nervous, maybe unsure of their skills, and suddenly they’re improving, they're being cheered on. That changes people. It builds confidence beyond the court."

Breaking Down Barriers

The social aspect of the league is where the real magic happens. From spontaneous post-game dinners to road trips and vacations, the friendships formed here often extend well beyond the court.

"As a business owner, I can say without hesitation that this group has introduced me to people I never would have met otherwise," Derek says. "It’s not just a sport. It’s a network. It’s a community of chosen family."

That network has also bridged cultural divides. "I’m not a native Spanish speaker, but playing in this league has given me the confidence to engage in a language and culture I otherwise wouldn’t have experienced. It’s immersive. It’s transformative."

How PARCS Was Born from Play

That transformation extended into Derek’s professional life as well. When he and his partner Justin were preparing to launch PARCS Dentistry, they turned to someone they trusted: Johnny.

"Johnny was already a community leader, someone who knew how to engage, organize, and communicate. Bringing him into the PARCS family was a no-brainer."

Johnny now helps lead PARCS' marketing and community outreach, ensuring that the inclusive ethos of the volleyball league carries over into the dental practice. Another league member, Gabe, joined the team as an assistant despite having no prior experience. Through mentorship and training, Gabe grew into the role, and the team's cohesion became a reflection of the values fostered on the volleyball court.

"That spirit of equity, of meeting people where they are and helping them grow, is baked into our business model now," Derek says. "We’ve served so many patients referred through the league who hadn’t always been treated with dignity in other dental settings. We’re proud to change that."

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Legacy

As the league grows, so does its impact. Last year saw over 100 members playing regularly across multiple nights. The vision isn’t just more games; it’s more connection.

"We’d love to see Sunset Park filled with our league on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays," Derek says. "The dream is to make this a citywide staple. And with partnerships from places like Gipsy, Piranha, and local businesses like ours, we’re well on our way."

There’s even talk of sister leagues, travel teams, and expanded community outreach.

A Message to the Hesitant

For those who may be intimidated by joining—whether due to lack of skill, social anxiety, or being new to town—Derek has this to say:

"Take the leap. Four years ago, I had no social life in Vegas. Now, I can’t go a day without seeing someone from the league or having something on my calendar. That wouldn’t have happened without walking into that first game. You’ll find your people here."

DEI: Not Just a Tagline

For Derek and many others, the league isn't simply a hobby. It’s a model for what inclusion can really look like: intentional, community-based, and joy-driven.

"DEI can feel like corporate jargon until you actually see it in action," Derek reflects. "This league shows what it means to create space—not just for diversity to exist, but for it to thrive."

Whether on the court or in the chair at PARCS Dentistry, the message is the same: Everyone belongs. Everyone matters. And when we lift each other up, we all win.

LGBT Volleyball at Sunset Park starting at 7:30 PM. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturday's at Sunset Park Volleyball Courts. Look for the Rainbow Flag.