First Annual North American Fall Classic in Mesa, Arizona

The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF), a non-profit organization committed to promoting sport and physical fitness among first responders, is thrilled to announce the inception of their newest event, the North American Fall Classic, coming to Mesa, Arizona. In response to persistent requests across the North America region to expand programming globally, the North American Fall Classic was established by CPAF in 2023. Taking place from Wednesday, November 1, through Sunday, November 5, the event will feature Olympic style games that welcome connection between public safety personnel from varied backgrounds and cultures and offer the opportunity to develop camaraderie and celebrate the human spirit at its very best.

“After tremendous demand for more programming, we couldn’t be happier to introduce the first ever North American Fall Classic,” says Larry Collins, President of the California Police Athletic Federation. “Our portfolio of events aims to promote both physical and mental wellness among first responders and the addition of this phenomenal event will only encourage more public safety personnel to focus on their health. We are excited to welcome athletes from all across North America, bringing together a whole new group of competitors in Mesa, Arizona.”

Open to first responders from across North America, including the United States, Canada and Mexico, the new prestigious competition will offer eight different sporting events including basketball, Brazilian Jiu jitsu, cornhole, flag football, pickleball, soccer, baseball and softball. The Olympic style games will take place at the brand-new state-of-the-art venue, Legacy Park, in Mesa, Arizona from Wednesday, November 1, through Sunday, November 5.

Formerly known as Bell Bank Park, Legacy Park reopened in January 2022 and boasts a wide range of facilities, allowing each of the eight sports offered to take place in one venue. Athletes from law enforcement, firefighters (including volunteer or part time), emergency medical technicians, custom and correctional officers, as well as full-time employees (active and retired) of any eligible agency or organization in the capacity of 9-1-1 dispatchers, detention-custodial officers, crime scene investigators, or lifeguards are invited to participate in the inaugural sporting event.

The North American Fall Classic is one of four events that the California Police Athletic Federation presents in addition to the bi-annual World Police & Fire Games, annual US Police & Fire Championships and annual First Responder’s Relay.

To learn more about the California Police Athletic Federation and its games, please visit www.cpaf.org