I laugh about it, too, but that's what they call them! I've heard it recommended that sponsors be of the same gender. I have many male friends in Al-Anon who are a huge part of my recovery. It's part of the reason I like the mix. It also was a very gentle way for me to be reminded that there are good, decent men "out there" who are also struggling to make life work. It would have been very easy to write all men off at the time.
I have 2 meetings I try to attend every week, except when I travel. Some others I enjoy are always there if I need them. I hopped around a bit. I only walked out on one within 5 minutes because it was a rap meeting. I am not kidding.