Community Builder · Leader · Designer
From the sidelines to the screen, transforming how our leagues look, feel, and connect.
John Ledwith joined the Hawaii Gay Flag Football League (HIGFFL) in 2015 and immediately became a creative force. He reimagined everything from uniforms to community outreach and helped grow the league into a bold, inclusive powerhouse. As a longtime board member and commissioner, he shaped HIGFFL’s identity, expanded its mission. His impact didn’t stop in Hawaii. Nationally, he transformed the look of multiple Gay Bowls, served as co-chair and creative director for Gay Bowl XXII, and rebuilt NGFFL’s website into a dynamic hub for players, teams, and fans. He continues to donate high-impact design work to NGFFL, including environmental graphics, awards, and special projects.
Highlights & Contributions
HIGFFL Commissioner (2020–2023); grew league size and vision. Introduced league give-back food drives, safe sex kit builds, and meal deliveries.
Rebuilt NGFFL.org into a responsive site that’s become a city leader and player resource.
Rebranded HIGFFL and Honolulu Riptide (travel team) identities, built the league’s first website; designed local and travel team uniforms.
Created unified Gay Bowl branding system and designed logos and look for GBXX–XXIII, and GBXXVI.
Co-founded and led the Aloha Classic for six years, growing it into a marquee tournament with support from a small team.
Co-chaired Honolulu’s Gay Bowl XX & XXII successful bids. Co-leader and creative director of Gay Bowl XXII.
Set a new local standard for inclusion by adding pronouns to jerseys, helping grow Women’s+ participation fivefold.
Ongoing pro bono design and branding support for NGFFL since 2020.
Ty Law
HIGFFL founder, former commissioner, GBXXII Co-chair
John’s not in it for the spotlight. Everything he’s done for HIGFFL and NGFFL has been about improving systems, building community, and transforming the way the leagues look, feel, and function. His work doesn’t just make things better—it makes them matter.
Terry Howerton
CMSA member (Chicago)
Through his branding and leadership John helped put Hawaii on the NGFFL map, and introduced a wonderful community and aloha spirit to our sport via the Aloha Classic and Gay Bowl XXII.
Kiersin Shimazu
HIGFFL Board of Directors
John’s leadership has been a driving force behind the growth of the HIGFFL. His vision and commitment have not only expanded the league but also created more space for women’s+ players to thrive. His impact is lasting and deeply felt on and off the field.
Gallery of Work
(click image to enlarge)
