The Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association’s Lane Kemper Classic is an annual softball tournament that raises funds to support Firefighters and their families in times of need. The tournament is named after Lane Kemper, a former Fire Captain and avid softball player who dedicated his life to serving his community.
This year’s tournament was held once again at the Field of Dreams Complex in Orange County and featured some of the best Firefighter softball teams from around the City. The teams competed in a round-robin format, with the top teams advancing to the playoffs and the championship game.
The Lane Kemper Classic is more than just a softball tournament, however. It is a celebration of the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe. It is also a reminder of the importance of supporting our Firefighters and their families in times of need.
The funds raised from the tournament go towards supporting the Los Angeles Relief Association’s Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. This fund provides assistance to Firefighters and their families who have been injured or killed in the line of duty, as well as to Firefighters who are struggling with illnesses or disabilities.
The tournament is also a great way for Firefighters from different stations to come together and bond over their shared love of softball and their dedication to serving their communities. The tournament is a testament to the strong sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that exists within the firefighting community.
2023 marked the end of an era for the event as Keith Bandy, the man responsible for pulling this all together announced this would be his final year as chairman. Keith has been instrumental over the past years working with the Relief Association and its staff in organizing the event. His patience and talents working to make sure things ran smoothy will be sorely missed. Thank you, Keith. We will not forget your dedication in making this event such a success.
In addition to the many softball games, there were various events and activities throughout the tournament, including a silent auction. We would like to give a shout out to Valerie Lawrence and her team for once again gathering a plethora of goodies to auction off in support of the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter Fund. The events also provided an opportunity for players, families, and fans to come together and celebrate the sport of softball and the brave men and women who serve as Firefighters.
As in past years, the teams to watch this year were from Fire Station 29 and Fire Station 2. These LAFD teams have a strong record in the tournament, placing high in the rankings in past events. This year was no different with the two powerhouses battling it out for the title of champion. With some strong play, Fire Station 29 eventually claimed victory, taking home the title of Champions. Congratulations to both teams, and to all the other members and stations who participated in the tournament. You have all made the 39th year of this annual play one of the best.
Thank you to all the volunteers and Relief staff members for your tireless dedication to this worth-while cause. Special thanks once again to Keith Bandy and his crew for their years of service. We are looking forward to next season when Judd Ream from Fire Station 21 and Chad Corona of 2s take up the reigns and continue the support of our Firefighters and their families while also celebrating the sport of softball and the sense of community and camaraderie that exists within the firefighting community.
Written by John Hicks
Photos by Deborah Lew