Chicago Fire’s Matt Lampson Named MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year, presented by Advocare

CHICAGO (Nov. 3, 2016) – Chicago Fire goalkeeper Matt Lampson has been named the 2016 MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year, presented by AdvoCare.
Inspired by his own battle with Stage IV Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Lampson created The LampStrong Foundation in 2014, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing difference-making financial, emotional and motivational support to cancer patients and their families. The foundation has raised more than $30,000 to date and Lampson has worked tirelessly to positively influence the lives of those battling cancer and encourage survivors to make the most of their second chance at life. Now nine-years cancer free, Lampson expanded his Hero Program to Chicago, hosting survivors and patients at Fire home and away games, helping the kids and families find a break from the emotional grind of dealing with cancer treatments and its effects.
“I am humbled and overwhelmingly thankful for this tremendous honor bestowed upon me,” said Lampson. “However, this distinction is not mine alone. The reality is that I would never be able to reach as many lives as I do without the tremendous efforts of those close to me. This laurel therefore, also belongs to my family, to the Chicago Fire, to every team in MLS, and most importantly, every single cancer patient, survivor, and family member that has taken the time to read my story and be inspired to make a difference within the world.”
The Hilliard, Ohio native signed with the Fire on Feb. 26, 2016 after spending the first four seasons of his career with Columbus Crew SC. In 11 regular season appearances for the Men in Red, Lampson earned three shutouts and set a new club record with a 412 minute shutout streak between March 11 and April 16. Lampson additionally finished the season sixth in the league with a 72.4 saves percentage.  
In recognition of Lampson’s efforts, MLS WORKS will donate $5,000 to his charity of choice.
The finalists for Humanitarian of the Year were determined by votes from national media members, MLS players, technical staffs and front offices. Lampson is the third player in Fire history to be named Humanitarian of the Year, previously won by Diego Gutierrez in 2007 and Logan Pause in 2009.

Lampson’s full statement on winning Humanitarian of the Year can be found here.

Below is a breakdown of the voting for the three finalists: