SANDY, Utah (Thursday, October 18, 2018) - Real Salt Lake captain Kyle Beckerman was named the 2018 Jordan Guernsey Humanitarian of the Year for his wide-ranging and extensive work in the community.
“As Real Salt Lake players, we have a unique opportunity to impact people’s lives. So any little thing we can do to help to help someone out, we feel like we should,” Beckerman said. “I’ve felt like part of this community since I got here in 2007 and it’s a privilege to be able to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family.”
The son of two teachers, education has been a bright spot for his engagement. He started Beckerman’s Book Club at Ensign Elementary School, assigning them a book to read over the summer and leading a class discussion in the fall. He also promoted health and fitness in the community with the goal of making soccer accessible by hosting the launch of futsal courts in Salt Lake City. His additional efforts included hosting Make-A-Wish meet-and-greets before games and another meet-and-greet for juvenile offenders, providing motivation and inspiration.
In 2015, the club announced that the Humanitarian of the Year Award would be named in honor of one of Real Salt Lake’s biggest fans, the late Jordan Guernsey, whose passion for work in the community embodied the spirit of the award. Beckerman was presented the award by Guernsey’s wife Paola and their children, Izzy and Kyle.
Jordan Guernsey Humanitarian of the Year: Kyle Beckerman (2018), Justin Schmidt (2017), Jordan Allen and Justen Glad (2016), Abdoulie Mansally (2015), Abdoulie Mansally (2014), Chris Wingert (2013), Will Johnson (2012), Jean Alexandre (2011), Jean Alexandre (2010), Robbie Russell (2009), Nat Borchers (2008), Carey Talley (2007), Seth Trembly (2006), Brian Kamler (2005)
