George Lopez is better at charity than comedy, steps forward to buy championship rings for local HS

The next funny thing George Lopez says will be his first, but when it comes to philanthropy, Mr. Lopez has delivered one hell of a punch-line to the baseball players of San Fernando High, his alma mater in the Los Angeles area and recent champions of the City League.

With San Fernando’s 8-6 victory in Dodger Stadium over Chatsworth in the league final, the team earned themselves what LeBron James is still so desperately seeking – a championship ring. Only problem? At $400 a pop (really, $400? I guess Glenn Beck was right about the price of gold), the players, predominantly from low-income families, couldn’t afford them. And, since we all know that it didn’t happen unless you have the bling to prove it, the team began to sell t-shirts to raise the funds, but found that to be a bit slow-going. Enter the late-night television host to save the day.

Lopez told coach Armando Gomez he wanted to buy the players their rings. That amounts to about 30 rings, for players and coaches, to the tune of $400 apiece or $12,000 total.

The only stipulation, Gomez said, was that Lopez wanted a ring for himself.

“I was so grateful for the generosity he’s shown toward us,” Gomez said. “I told him, ‘You can have whatever you want.’ ”

Good work, George– it always warms the heart to see a celebrity spread the wealth, and it’s certainly something these young men won’t forget for a long time, if ever (which, let’s be honest, is assuredly the first unforgettable thing George Lopez has ever been a part of).

Wait a minute….TV show host, heartwarming story, disadvantaged youth…I smell ratings!

On Friday, Gomez said Lopez invited the players to his show, “Lopez Tonight” on TBS, so he could give the players their rings. The rings won’t be ready for about 10 weeks. Gomez said to look for the San Fernando High baseball players to get their rings on “Lopez Tonight” in mid-August.

What a big day that will be for the team and the dozens upon dozens of people watching from home.

Congratulations to San Fernando, and here’s hoping Lopez Tonight is on the air long enough to give them a chance to repeat next year…uh, yeah, on second thought, better enjoy those rings now kids. 

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LA North: George Lopez offers to buy CIF rings for San Fernando baseball team [ESPN Los Angeles]