Laney College football team honors John Beam as new season begins
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 1:41 PM
Last updated Aug 27, 2026

Laney College's football team begins its season for the first time without longtime coach John Beam, who was killed last November. A celebration of life was held recently, attended by hundreds, honoring Beam's significant impact on the community and players he coached. Interim President Becky Opsata noted his influence extended beyond football. Current head coach Josh Ramos mentioned plans to honor Beam in various ways, including renaming the fieldhouse and dedicating helmet stickers for the players this season. The team is set to return to the field on Thursday.
- •John Beam was shot and killed in November 2025.
- •Hundreds attended his celebration of life in Oakland.
- •Laney plans to rename its fieldhouse in Beam's honor.
- •Helmet stickers with Beam's initials will be worn this season.
- •The football team returns to action on Thursday.
- 1:41 PMYahoo Sports — Laney College remembers legendary coach John Beam as new football season begins
"Laney College's football team is preparing for a new season without longtime coach John Beam for the first time in more than two decades after he was shot and killed last November, as the school plans to rename its fieldhouse in his honor later this year.
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