You already knew the Chargers Invitational was a great way for the team to connect with its coaching staff, former players and, most importantly, each other.
But it also made an impact in the Los Angeles community, as proceeds from the event benefited the Chargers Community Foundation as well as Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).
"We're very proud to come together with this prestigious organization acting as civic leaders," said Lara Khouri, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of CHLA. "We want to thank (the Chargers) for sharing the commitment that we have to Los Angeles' present and its future. Being part of the Chargers' organization's efforts to build a new home in Los Angeles is something that we support…. We look forward to a great future together."
For some, the event hit on deeply personal levels.
Chargers Head Coach Anthony Lynn has a first-hand connection with CHLA as his niece received treatment there when she was just 10 years old.
"My niece was in the hospital for about six months and they saved her life," he said. "They did a heck of a job. I have a lot of respect for them and it's always been personal to me. They just do a heck of a job and I can't say enough good things about it."
Marley Franklin was one of the event's very special guests. The 13-year old golf champion was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth, but through CHLA, she received the care and expertise she needed to be cured. On Monday, she partook in friendly competitions with some Chargers players on the putting green. One of those players was Adrian Phillips, who was in awe of Franklin's strength and tenacity knowing what she's been through.
"It was an inspiration to see somebody that young and how seriously she takes the game," Phillips mentioned. "She was out there with a bunch of NFL (players) and when she lined up her putts, she was acting like she was on a PGA tour. She definitely gained a new fan. To be able to see an actual patient that Children's Hospital Los Angeles has helped, and see how she was able to overcome and fight through to keep going and keep a smile on her face, it was a beautiful thing. It just makes you want to do more."
Along with the partnership with CHLA, for the Chargers, the event was just another stone in their ever-winding path of community involvement.
"In our organization, we place a big importance on making a positive impact in the community," mentioned John Spanos, Chargers President of Football Operations. "Children's Hospital Los Angeles is such a great organization that does so much great work, so to be able to support them while also putting together an event where people like to have some fun, it's a win-win."
The Chargers host their annual charity golf tournament at The Riviera Country Club benefitting the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the Chargers Community Foundation.
