A Veteran Remembered, A Generation Supported: The Power of the Frankie G Classic
Each summer, the Lake Forest Country Club in Lake St. Louis becomes more than a place for golf and recreation—it transforms into a hub of generosity and remembrance during the annual Frankie G Charity Classic and Pickleball Tournament. What began as two separate charitable events—the Lake Forest Charity Classic and the Frankie G Memorial—has grown into a powerful, unified tradition, bringing together athletes, supporters, and philanthropists for a greater cause.
2025 Pickleball Tournament Winners: 1st Place: Kenny Higgins & Rachel Pontious, center. 2nd Place: Kash Reddiyar & Taryn Steidinger, left. 3rd Place: Kyle Laramie & Kasandra Gehrke, right.
This year, the tournament raised more than $40,000 to support Care to Learn, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing children’s most basic needs—health, hunger, and hygiene—so they can stay focused in school and succeed. Over the years, the tournament has generated hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities, honoring the legacy of Frankie G, a U.S. Veteran and beloved member of LFCC, whose spirit of service and sportsmanship continues to inspire.
The event continues to grow in both size and stature, attracting top pickleball players from across the region and beyond. This year’s mixed doubles pickleball tournament featured 12 highly competitive teams, many of whom brought a professional-level intensity to the court. Among those competing was Kyle Laramie, founder and CEO of Veterans Care Coordination (VCC). Kyle not only plays a key role in organizing both the golf and pickleball components of the tournament, but also leads pickleball clinics to introduce new players to the sport. His involvement goes beyond logistics—he pours his time, energy, and personal passion into the event, all while running a successful company that supports veterans and their families nationwide.
Participants of our one-day clinic with a pro to learn or improve their pickleball techniques and skills, all while supporting a great charity.
Despite this year’s weather challenges, Kyle helped relocate the pickleball tournament to Paddle Up in Lake St. Louis when rain interrupted play at LFCC. His dedication ensured the event carried on without a hitch. Kyle even competed in the tournament, finishing in third place with his partner, Kasandra Gehrke. This impressive finish came on the heels of a major personal achievement: winning gold at the 2025 Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championship—a significant milestone in Kyle’s journey toward becoming a professional pickleball player.
The competition was fierce and friendly, with Kenny Higgins and Rachel Pontious taking first place, and Kash Reddiyar and Taryn Steidinger earning second. Yet beyond the medals and matches, the true victory was the community coming together in service of a greater mission.
Kyle’s ongoing commitment—to veterans, to youth, to his community—is evident in everything he does. Through his leadership at VCC, his growing presence in the pickleball world, and his unwavering dedication to charitable work, he continues to build a legacy rooted in both excellence and empathy.
Thank you to the Singlewave employees who participated in our one-day clinic with a professional.
Veterans Care Coordination would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our partners and supporters. Your generous charitable donations have made this year’s event a tremendous success. Your contributions are making a positive impact—not only on the lives of the veterans we serve but also on the children who need support to thrive. Thank you!
Veterans Care Coordination is proud to support this annual event and the values it represents. The Frankie G Charity Classic is more than a fundraiser; it’s a reminder of the impact we can make when we play with purpose and lead with heart.
