The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF), a non-profit organization committed to promoting sport and physical fitness among first responders, is thrilled to announce new executive committee members and leadership for the organization. For the first time in the organization’s history, a firefighter has been inducted as CPAF’s President. James King, a retired Indianapolis firefighter, will be taking the helm of the California Police Athletic Federation, furthering the organization’s mission to unite public safety athletes and provide them with an Olympic-style athletic experience that encourages health and wellness and build camaraderie.
Founded in 1967, CPAF has historically hosted Olympic-style games to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among members of predominantly the police community. The induction of a retired firefighter as President symbolizes CPAF’s mission to welcome in more members of the firefighter community after expanding eligibility to volunteer and part-time firefighters in 2023.
“I am honored to be the first firefighter inducted as President of the California Police Athletic Federation,” said James King, newly elected President of the California Police Athletic Federation. “After starting my journey as an athlete in the World Police and Fire Games nearly 30 years ago, it is incredible to see how far this organization has come through the years. As President of the organization, I am ecstatic to welcome the next generation of athletes, continue our offerings of world class sporting events, and to hopefully grow our firefighter-specific offerings and audience.”
James’ commitment to public service is exemplified by his distinguished 30-year career in public service, characterized by strong leadership and unwavering dedication. Now a retired Captain from the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) and Lawrence Township Fire Department, his journey through various roles from back stepper to Deputy Chief, has allowed him to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of firefighters. This can also be seen in his work as the Lead Instructor of Career Technologies Fire Rescue at Westfield High School in Indiana, where he has influenced countless students and teachers through his innovative programs. His leadership and commitment continue to impact and inspire communities in Indianapolis and beyond.
James played an instrumental role when he served as Co-Chair of Sports & Venues at the 2001 Indianapolis World Police & Fire Games. His role has only expanded within the California Police Athletic Federation since, serving as a World Police & Fire Games Federation Director, CPAF Director, and recently as Vice President of the organization. Now, continuing his pursuit of helping the next generation of public servant athletes, he has assumed the role of President of CPAF, making him the first firefighter to lead the organization.
A new Executive Committee has also been elected to serve the organization by his side. Additional Executive Committee appointees include:
Vice President: David Miklos, Retired, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Secretary: Jonna Wiltshire, Retired, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Treasurer: Ken Darnell, Retired, California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation
Executive Director: Edmund Russell, Retired, Los Angeles Police Department
Federation Counsel: David Sanders
*Past-President: Larry Collins, Retired, California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation
The California Police Athletic Federation hosts four events annually including the bi-annual World Police & Fire Games, the US Police & Fire Championships, the First Responders Relay and the North American Fall Classic. To learn more about the California Police Athletic Federation and its games, please visit www.cpaf.org
