Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
September 02, 2026
Mahj Girl Society Opens Sarasota's First Mahjong Club, Eyes World Record
TLDR
- Mahj Girl Society opens Sarasota's first dedicated mahjong club, offering lessons, tournaments, and membership perks, positioning early adopters for community leadership.
- The club opens Sept 2 at Georgie's Garden Café, with open play, lessons, workshops, and a January attempt to set a Guinness World Record for most simultaneous mahjong players.
- Mahj Girl Society fosters in-person community, welcoming all ages and genders, and plans charity partnerships, aiming to leave the local community better through shared experiences.
- Founder Sasha Stapleton's 40th birthday coincides with a record attempt to gather over 2,500 mahjong players, blending celebration with giving back.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because it highlights the growing popularity of mahjong as a social activity that brings people together in an increasingly digital world. The Mahj Girl Society not only provides a physical space for community connection but also aims to use the game for charitable purposes, potentially setting a world record that could shine a spotlight on the region. For local residents, it offers a new venue for socializing, learning, and creative expression, while also supporting local charities and fostering collaboration among mahjong enthusiasts. The record attempt, if successful, could bring significant attention and economic benefits to Sarasota-Manatee.
Summary
The Mahj Girl Society is opening its doors in Sarasota-Manatee, marking the region's first dedicated mahjong social club. The grand opening celebration is set for Wednesday, September 2, at Georgie's Garden Café at UTC, which will serve as the club's home until a permanent Lakewood Ranch location is established later this year. Founder Sasha Stapleton, a local entrepreneur, envisions the space as more than just a place to play mahjong—it's a clubhouse where people can gather, socialize, and engage in a variety of activities.
In addition to open play, lessons, and tournaments, the club will host creative workshops, themed events, and casual areas for relaxation. Members will enjoy perks like free Wi-Fi, tea, and coffee, while non-members can access à la carte experiences. The calendar is already packed, including regular open play on Wednesdays and a Learn to Play session on Thursday, September 3. One standout event is an Alice in Wonderland–themed Mahjong Tea Party.
The club's ambition culminates in a January attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the most people playing mahjong simultaneously, with over 2,500 players expected, all while raising funds for local charities. Stapleton, who is turning 40, sees this as a way to give back and bring the community together. The Society aims to collaborate with other mahjong groups and local organizations, emphasizing that there's room for everyone at the table. While apps have popularized mahjong, the club stresses the importance of in-person interaction, as Director Maddelyn Banham notes, 'You can discover mahjong online, but the community happens in person.' Stapleton's family history, including her grandparents' love for the game, is woven into the brand. The name 'Mahj Girl' reflects the brand's personality, not a restriction—the club welcomes players of all genders and ages. For more details, visit MahjGirlSociety.com.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content distributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, Mahj Girl Society Opens Sarasota's First Mahjong Club, Eyes World Record
