Jon Kempin

Born in Leawood, Kansas, Kempin played club soccer for the KC Legends, Blue Valley Stars, and KCFC Alliance youth teams.{{cite news|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/the-full-90/article296917.html|title=Wizards sign Jon Kempin, first home grown player in team history|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=December 2, 2020|url-access=limited}} He attended Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, winning a state title and allowing just two goals as a freshman. He was selected to take part in the United States U17 residency program at the IMG Soccer Academy, where he spent his sophomore year.{{cite news|last=Kennedy|first=Paul|url=https://www.socceramerica.com/publications/article/28209/us-u-17-boys-residency-program-adds-17-new-playe.html|title=U.S. U-17 boys residency program adds 17 new players|website=Soccer America|access-date=January 12, 2019|date=September 4, 2008|url-access=limited|archive-date=August 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805140818/https://www.socceramerica.com/publications/article/28209/us-u-17-boys-residency-program-adds-17-new-playe.html|url-status=dead}} After one season in the residency program, Kempin returned to Kansas and joined the Kansas City Wizards Academy in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy.{{cite news|url=https://www.topdrawersoccer.com/club-soccer-articles/kansas-city-makes-kempin-youngest-ever-signing_aid19335|title=Kansas City makes Kempin youngest ever signing|website=TopDrawerSoccer.com|access-date=January 12, 2019|date=November 24, 2010}} As a junior at Blue Valley North, he was named as the Kansas State Player of the Year and as a Parade All-American. In 2017, Kempin was inducted into the Blue Valley North Athletic Hall of Fame and the Kansas Soccer Hall of Fame.{{cite web|url=https://district.bluevalleyk12.org/schools/high/BVN/FormsAndDocsAthletics/HOF-Nomination.pdf|title=Blue Valley North Athletic Hall of Fame – Previous Inductees|website=Blue Valley North High School|publisher=Blue Valley USD 229|access-date=January 12, 2019|page=2|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113232245/https://district.bluevalleyk12.org/schools/high/BVN/FormsAndDocsAthletics/HOF-Nomination.pdf|archive-date=January 13, 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://www.kansasyouthsoccer.org/about/hofinductees/|title=Kansas Soccer Hall of Fame Inductees|website=Kansas State Youth Soccer Association|access-date=January 12, 2019|archive-date=January 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113232230/http://www.kansasyouthsoccer.org/about/hofinductees/|url-status=dead}}

On August 31, 2010, Kempin signed with the Kansas City Wizards as the first homegrown player in club history. At 17 years old, he was the youngest player ever signed by the Wizards. Kempin did not make an appearance in his first professional season, although he was named to the bench for the club's season finale against San Jose Earthquakes.{{cite news|author=Bundesliga Fanatic Staff|url=http://bundesligafanatic.com/20110720/sporting-kcs-jon-kempin-the-next-king-kahn/|title=Sporting KC's Jon Kempin – The Next King Kahn?|website=The Bundesliga Fanatic|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=July 20, 2011|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414213029/http://bundesligafanatic.com/20110720/sporting-kcs-jon-kempin-the-next-king-kahn/|archive-date=April 14, 2019}} In 2011, Kempin again did not play for the Sporting Kansas City first team. He did become the club's primary goalkeeper in the MLS Reserve League, appearing several times in that competition, and was named to the substitutes' bench three times in Major League Soccer play.{{Soccerway|jon-kempin/150579}}

In his third professional season, Kempin finally made his debut for SKC. On May 29, 2012, he started against Orlando City in the U.S. Open Cup, making six saves and helping Sporting KC claim a 3–2 victory.{{cite news|last=Palmer|first=Tod|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/the-full-90/article303620/Sporting-KC’s-Jon-Kempin-ready-for-his-shot.html|title=Sporting KC's Jon Kempin ready for his shot|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=April 12, 2017|date=June 4, 2012|url-access=limited}} He was named to the bench 13 times in league play, all due to an injury to normal backup goalkeeper Eric Kronberg, but did not play outside of his lone cup appearance.{{cite news|last=Englen|first=Alex|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2012/5/3/2995369/sometimes-i-forget-about-korede-aiyegbusis-pace-then-i-watch-a|title=Sometimes I Forget About Korede Aiyegbusi, Then I Watch a Reserve Game (Thoughts On SKC-FCD Draw)|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=May 3, 2012|quote=...you can tell that since he's been traveling with the first team during the start of the season due to Eric Kronberg's injury...|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111175439/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2012/5/3/2995369/sometimes-i-forget-about-korede-aiyegbusis-pace-then-i-watch-a|url-status=dead}}

On March 14, 2013, Kempin was loaned to Orlando City, Sporting KC's USL Pro affiliate, in a bid to find regular playing time. The loan was for the duration of the 2013 season, with the club able to recall him at any time.{{cite news|author=SI staff|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2013/03/14/sporting-kansas-city-orlando-loan|title=Sporting Kansas City loans 4 players to Orlando City|website=Sports Illustrated|publisher=Time Warner|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=March 14, 2013}} Kempin made his Orlando debut on April 7, starting a 3–1 victory against Phoenix FC.{{cite news|last=Prezelski|first=Ted|url=http://www.tucsonsentinel.com/sports/report/040813_phoenix-fc/wolves-give-up-mo-against-orlando/|title=Wolves give up mo' against Orlando|website=Tucson Sentinel|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=April 8, 2013}} He appeared nine times for the Lions on the year, playing for the last time in a scoreless draw with Pittsburgh Riverhounds on July 17.{{cite news|url=https://www.wtae.com/article/riverhounds-orlando-city-play-to-scoreless-draw/7462181|title=Riverhounds, Orlando City play to scoreless draw|website=WTAE-TV|publisher=Hearst Television|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=July 18, 2013}} He did not appear in the club's playoff run, with Miguel Gallardo starting in net as Orlando claimed the USL Pro title for the second time in club history.{{cite news|last=Williams|first=Joe|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/os-xpm-2013-09-07-os-orlando-city-charlotte-eagles-usl-pro-title-mat-20130907-story.html|title=Orlando City Soccer Club defeats Charlotte 7–4 to win USL Pro championship in Dom Dwyer's triumphant return|website=Orlando Sentinel|publisher=Tribune Publishing|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=September 7, 2013}} Kempin returned to Sporting Kansas City with six games remaining in the regular season, but was unable to beat out Jimmy Nielsen or Kronberg to make a matchday squad. He watched on during the club's playoff run as SKC defeated Real Salt Lake on penalties to win MLS Cup 2013, the second league championship in club history.{{cite news|last=Straus|first=Brian|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2013/12/07/sporting-drama-three-thoughts-on-the-mls-cup-final-and-sporting-kcs-second-title|title=Sporting drama: Three Thoughts on the MLS Cup final, and Sporting KC's second title|website=Sports Illustrated|publisher=Time Warner|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=December 7, 2013}}

On March 17, 2014, Kempin was loaned to OKC Energy FC for the duration of the 2014 season. The Energy, playing their debut season in the USL Pro, were coached by Kempin's former teammate in Kansas City, Jimmy Nielsen.{{cite news|url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/sporting-kc-loans-3-usl-212835093--sow.html|title=Sporting KC loans 3 to USL PRO affiliates|website=Yahoo! News|publisher=Yahoo!|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=March 17, 2014}}{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Although he was initially recalled by SKC before playing a game, Kempin returned to make his Energy debut on April 7, starting in a 4–2 defeat against LA Galaxy II.{{cite news|last=Tavis|first=Michael|url=https://kckingdom.com/2014/04/02/sporting-kansas-city-recall-gk-jon-kempin/|title=Sporting Kansas City Recall GK Jon Kempin|website=KC Kingdom|publisher=FanSided|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=April 2, 2014|archive-date=July 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702232557/https://kckingdom.com/2014/04/02/sporting-kansas-city-recall-gk-jon-kempin/|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|last=Serrano|first=Adam|url=https://www.lagalaxy.com/post/2014/04/07/three-first-half-goals-power-la-galaxy-ii-over-oklahoma-city-energy-fc|title=Three first half goals power LA Galaxy II over Oklahoma City Energy FC|website=LA Galaxy|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=April 7, 2014}} He appeared 13 times through the front half of the season, with that run of matches including a six-game losing streak and a six-game unbeaten run.{{cite news|last=Brannick|first=Chris|url=https://oklahoman.com/article/4987206/oklahoma-city-energy-fc-jon-kempin-recalled-on-loan-from-sporting-kansas-city|title=Oklahoma City Energy FC: Jon Kempin recalled on loan from Sporting Kansas City|website=The Oklahoman|publisher=The Anschutz Corporation|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=July 9, 2014|url-access=limited}}

Kempin was recalled by Sporting KC on July 9, 2014, after Eric Kronberg fractured a bone in his left hand.{{cite news|url=https://www.cjonline.com/sports/2014-07-09/sporting-kc-goalie-kronberg-fractures-left-hand|title=Sporting KC goalie Kronberg fractures left hand|website=The Topeka Capital-Journal|publisher=Morris Communications|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=July 9, 2014}} He immediately stepped into the backup role behind Andy Gruenebaum, sitting on the bench in SKC's next five matches. Kempin was selected to take part in the inaugural MLS Homegrown Game, where he played the second half against Portland Timbers U23s and was named as the game's Most Valuable Player.{{cite news|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article1022432.html|title=Sporting KC's Jon Kempin stars in MLS Homegrown Game|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=August 5, 2014|url-access=limited}} Just five days after the Homegrown Game, Kempin stepped in to make his Major League Soccer debut; Gruenebaum went out injured against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on August 10, leaving Kempin to take over at halftime. He saved a penalty from Darren Mattocks in the 85th minute, but Sporting KC fell by a 2–0 scoreline.{{cite news|last=McDowell|first=Sam|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article1237239.html|title=Sporting KC goalkeeper Jon Kempin ready for first MLS start|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=August 15, 2014|url-access=limited|archive-date=August 18, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140818212619/http://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article1237239.html|url-status=dead}} Kempin went on to appear in SKC's next four games, including a match against Real Estelí in CONCACAF Champions League play on August 20.{{cite news|last=Gartland|first=Ben|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2014/8/19/6047781/red-drawn-sporting-kc-1-1-real-esteli|title=Red Drawn: Sporting KC 1–1 Real Esteli|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 8, 2019|date=August 19, 2014|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111175427/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2014/8/19/6047781/red-drawn-sporting-kc-1-1-real-esteli|url-status=dead}} Although he returned to the bench following Gruenebaum's return to health, Kempin finished the season with five appearances for Sporting Kansas City.

File:PORTLAND TIMBERS VS. SPORTING KC 2 - 2 (3).jpg

On March 20, 2015, Kempin was again sent on loan, this time joining North American Soccer League club San Antonio Scorpions for the duration of the 2015 season.{{cite news|url=http://wyandottedaily.com/sporting-kc-lends-goalkeeper-kempin-to-san-antonio-of-nasl/|title=Sporting KC lends goalkeeper Kempin to San Antonio of NASL|website=Wyandotte Daily|access-date=January 9, 2019|date=March 20, 2015}}{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} SKC manager Peter Vermes said that Kempin was headed to San Antonio, instead of affiliate club OKC Energy, because "[he] has the ability to go in and be the number one right away in San Antonio."{{cite news|last=Bell|first=Thad|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/3/21/8270059/vermes-explains-kempin-loan-and-says-okc-may-have-to-wait-for-some|title=Vermes explains Kempin loan and says OKC may have to wait for some help|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 9, 2019|date=March 21, 2015|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111175425/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/3/21/8270059/vermes-explains-kempin-loan-and-says-okc-may-have-to-wait-for-some|url-status=dead}} He started each of the Scorpions' first two matches on the year, conceding five total goals in defeats against Tampa Bay Rowdies on April 4 and Indy Eleven on April 18.

After Luis Marín terminated his contract with the club, Kempin was recalled to Sporting Kansas City on May 27, 2015.{{cite news|last=Gartland|first=Ben|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/5/27/8669435/sporting-kansas-city-and-luis-marin-terminate-contract|title=Sporting Kansas City and Luis Marin Terminate Contract|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 9, 2019|date=May 27, 2015|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111175422/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/5/27/8669435/sporting-kansas-city-and-luis-marin-terminate-contract|url-status=dead}} He spent the majority of the season backing up Tim Melia, but did appear three times in a four-match stretch in August.{{MLS player|jon-kempin}} Kempin's only other appearance on the year came in the knockout round of the 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs, in a match that would become known as the "Double Post" game.{{cite news|last=Goldberg|first=Jamie|url=https://www.oregonlive.com/timbers/2018/11/portland_timbers_kansas_city.html|title=Portland Timbers prepare to face Sporting Kansas City in playoffs for first time since 'Double Post' game|website=The Oregonian|publisher=Advance Publications|access-date=June 7, 2019|date=November 25, 2018}} Against eventual champions Portland Timbers, Melia suffered a head injury and had to exit the match in the 84th minute. Kempin did not concede a goal through extra time, and made three saves in the ensuing penalty shootout, but saw his kick in the 11th round saved as Portland advanced by a 7–6 scoreline.{{cite news|last=Scavuzzo|first=Diane|url=https://www.soccertoday.com/portland-timbers-vs-sporting-kc-playoff-thriller/|title=Portland Timbers vs Sporting KC playoff thriller|website=SoccerToday|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=October 30, 2015}} Although his contract expired at the end of the season, Kempin re-signed with Sporting KC on December 9.{{cite news|last=Gartland|first=Ben|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/12/9/9881294/sporting-kansas-city-re-sign-lawrence-olum-seth-sinovic-and-jon-kempin|title=Sporting Kansas City re-sign Lawrence Olum, Seth Sinovic and Jon Kempin|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=December 9, 2015|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111175341/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/12/9/9881294/sporting-kansas-city-re-sign-lawrence-olum-seth-sinovic-and-jon-kempin|url-status=dead}}

Although Kempin had been considered to be SKC's goalkeeper of the future for six years, his future with the club was thrown into doubt following the 2016 MLS SuperDraft; both Vermes and co-owner Robb Heineman said that the club wanted to draft Andrew Tarbell, and that they had viewed Tarbell as a "ten-year goalkeeper" for the club. That revelation, coupled with the selection of Alec Kann in the 2015 MLS Re-Entry Draft, meant that Kempin was again the club's number three goalkeeper.{{cite news|last=Gartland|first=Ben|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2016/1/14/10772390/jon-kempin-andrew-tarbell-and-the-confusing-narrative-of-the-2016-mls|title=Jon Kempin, Andrew Tarbell and the confusing narrative of the 2016 MLS Draft|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=January 14, 2016|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111121708/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2016/1/14/10772390/jon-kempin-andrew-tarbell-and-the-confusing-narrative-of-the-2016-mls|url-status=dead}} He was sent on loan to SKC's United Soccer League affiliate, Swope Park Rangers, on March 25, 2016.{{cite news|last=Villanueva|first=Araceli|url=https://reportingkc.com/2016/03/25/sporting-kansas-city-loan-kempin-medranda-salloi-swope-park-rangers/|title=Sporting Kansas City Loan Kempin, Medranda, and Salloi to Swope Park Rangers|website=Reporting KC|publisher=FanSided|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=March 25, 2016|archive-date=January 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111121417/https://reportingkc.com/2016/03/25/sporting-kansas-city-loan-kempin-medranda-salloi-swope-park-rangers/|url-status=dead}} Kempin started the inaugural game in Swope Park history, making two saves in a 2–1 victory against Portland Timbers 2 on March 26.{{cite news|last=McDowell|first=Sam|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article68486267.html|title=Swope Park Rangers win 2–1 over Portland in first United Soccer League match|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=March 26, 2016|url-access=limited}} After mostly staying with the Rangers for the first half of the season, he spent the early part of August moving between Sporting KC and Swope Park, playing in the league while on loan and appearing on the bench for SKC.{{cite news|last=Kovzan|first=Sam|url=https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2016/08/03/sporting-kc-loans-forward-diego-rubio-midfielder-emmanuel-appiah-swope-park-rangers|title=Sporting KC loans forward Diego Rubio, midfielder Emmanuel Appiah to Swope Park Rangers|website=Sporting Kansas City|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=August 3, 2016}} He played twice in the 2016–17 CONCACAF Champions League, with a start against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on August 23 eventually marking his 12th and final appearance with Sporting KC.{{cite news|last=Coreschi|first=Colton|url=https://sbisoccer.com/2016/08/ccl-rewind-vancouver-whtiecaps-rout-sporting-kansas-city|title=CCL Rewind: Vancouver Whitecaps rout Sporting Kansas City|website=SBI Soccer|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=August 24, 2016}} Kempin had his contract option declined by the club on November 23, ending his ten-year association with the Sporting Kansas City organization.{{cite news|last=McDowell|first=Sam|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article116725928.html|title=Sporting Kansas City roster for 2017 begins to take shape|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=November 23, 2016|url-access=limited|archive-date=November 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107082858/https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article116725928.html|url-status=dead}} He went unselected in the 2016 MLS Re-Entry Draft.{{cite news|last=Edwards|first=Andy|url=https://soccer.nbcsports.com/2016/12/22/garcia-leonardo-2-others-find-new-homes-in-mls-re-entry-draft/|title=Garcia, Leonardo, 2 others find new homes in MLS re-entry draft|website=NBC Sports|publisher=NBC Sports Group|access-date=January 10, 2019|date=December 22, 2016}}

After training with the club during preseason, Kempin signed with LA Galaxy on March 3, 2017. He was intended to serve as the club's number three goalkeeper, behind Brian Rowe and Clément Diop.{{cite news|last=Guesman|first=Josh|url=http://cornerofthegalaxy.com/2017/03/03/la-galaxy-sign-former-skc-goalkeeper-jon-kempin/|title=LA Galaxy sign former SKC goalkeeper, Jon Kempin|website=Corner of the Galaxy|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=March 3, 2017}} In a bid to find playing time, Kempin was loaned to LA Galaxy II, the Galaxy's reserve team in the United Soccer League. He made his debut for Los Dos on March 25, keeping a shutout in a 2–0 victory over Whitecaps FC 2.{{cite news|url=https://www.lagalaxy.com/post/2017/03/25/match-report-la-galaxy-ii-open-2017-season-win|title=Match Report: LA Galaxy II open the 2017 season with a win|website=LA Galaxy|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=March 25, 2017}} However, with Rowe injured and Diop on international duty, Kempin made his MLS debut for the Galaxy on June 3, tallying six saves in a scoreless draw with D.C. United.{{cite news|last=Calhoun|first=Damian|url=https://www.dailynews.com/2017/06/16/la-galaxy-coach-confident-about-goalie-depth/|title=LA Galaxy coach confident about goalie depth|website=Los Angeles Daily News|publisher=Southern California News Group|access-date=January 1, 2018|date=June 16, 2017}} Kempin appeared for Galaxy II sporadically throughout the 2017 season, playing his last of six games while on loan on August 2 against Orange County SC.{{cite news|last=Rodriguez|first=Alicia|url=https://www.angelsonparade.com/2017/8/2/16088100/la-galaxy-ii-1-orange-county-sc-0-final-score-result-recap-match-report|title=Seven Was Enough: LA Galaxy II 1, Orange County SC 0|website=Angels On Parade|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=August 2, 2017|archive-date=September 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917025813/https://www.angelsonparade.com/2017/8/2/16088100/la-galaxy-ii-1-orange-county-sc-0-final-score-result-recap-match-report|url-status=dead}} On August 23, in his second start of the year for the Galaxy, he tied an MLS record by saving two penalty kicks in a match, although the Galaxy were defeated 2–0 by Columbus Crew SC.{{cite news|last=Guesman|first=Josh|url=http://cornerofthegalaxy.com/2017/08/23/10-man-la-galaxy-get-overrun-by-var-and-saved-by-kempin-in-loss-to-columbus/|title=10-man LA Galaxy get overrun by VAR and saved by Kempin in loss to Columbus|website=Corner of the Galaxy|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=August 23, 2017}} Kempin appeared in 15 games between the two teams, but the Galaxy declined his contract option on November 27.{{cite news|last=Gray|first=Mike|url=https://www.lagconfidential.com/2017/11/27/16706398/la-galaxy-2018-roster-moves-announced|title=LA Galaxy 2018 roster moves announced|website=LAG Confidential|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=November 27, 2017}}

On December 13, 2017, Kempin was traded to Columbus Crew SC in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft.{{cite news|last=Mlot|first=Josh|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2017/12/13/16773710/columbus-crew-sc-trades-for-goalkeeper-jon-kempin-from-la-galaxy-mls-soccer|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171216074327/https://www.massivereport.com/2017/12/13/16773710/columbus-crew-sc-trades-for-goalkeeper-jon-kempin-from-la-galaxy-mls-soccer|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 16, 2017|title=Crew SC trades for goalkeeper Jon Kempin from LA Galaxy|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 1, 2020|date=December 13, 2017}} He stepped straight into the backup role behind Zack Steffen, appearing on the bench in each of Crew SC's first three matches. With Steffen away on international duty, Kempin made his debut for the club on March 24, 2018, starting against D.C. United. He made one save, helping Columbus to a 3–1 victory.{{cite news|last=Goff|first=Steven|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/soccer-insider/wp/2018/03/19/international-call-ups-deplete-d-c-united-columbus-crew/?noredirect=on|title=International call-ups deplete D.C. United, Columbus Crew|website=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=March 19, 2018|url-access=subscription}} He went on to appear four more times, finishing his first season in Columbus with five appearances; he was named to the bench an additional 31 times in all competitions. On December 9, Kempin had his contract option picked up by the club.{{cite news|last=Guldan|first=Patrick|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2018/11/26/18113385/columbus-crew-sc-announce-2019-roster-decisions-mls-gaston-sauro-lalas-abubakar-alex-crognale|title=Crew SC announces 2019 roster decisions|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 1, 2019|date=November 26, 2018|archive-date=December 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206145717/https://www.massivereport.com/2018/11/26/18113385/columbus-crew-sc-announce-2019-roster-decisions-mls-gaston-sauro-lalas-abubakar-alex-crognale|url-status=dead}}

After not making a single appearance through the first two months of the 2019 season, Kempin was sent on loan to USL Championship club Hartford Athletic on April 11.{{cite news|last=Murphy|first=Pat|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2019/4/12/18307602/columbus-crew-sc-jj-williams-luis-argudo-jon-kempin-loan-usl-championship-hartford-athletic|title=Kempin, Argudo, Williams sent on one-game loans to USL Championship teams|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=April 12, 2019|date=April 12, 2019|archive-date=April 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413000451/https://www.massivereport.com/2019/4/12/18307602/columbus-crew-sc-jj-williams-luis-argudo-jon-kempin-loan-usl-championship-hartford-athletic|url-status=dead}} He made his debut for the club two days later, starting a 3–1 defeat against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.{{cite news|last=Guldan|first=Patrick|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2019/4/16/18334963/columbus-crew-sc-loan-report-jj-williams-jon-kempin-alex-crognale-luis-argudo-ben-lundgaard|title=Loan report: A busy week away from the Crew|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=April 23, 2019|date=April 16, 2019|archive-date=April 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421202744/https://www.massivereport.com/2019/4/16/18334963/columbus-crew-sc-loan-report-jj-williams-jon-kempin-alex-crognale-luis-argudo-ben-lundgaard|url-status=dead}} After appearing once more for Hartford, Kempin was recalled by the Crew on April 23.{{cite news|url=https://www.hartfordathletic.com/news_article/show/1015044|title=Hartford Athletic acquires Collin Martin on loan|website=Hartford Athletic|publisher=United Soccer League|access-date=April 23, 2019|date=April 23, 2019|archive-date=April 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423210033/https://www.hartfordathletic.com/news_article/show/1015044|url-status=dead}} He played five times in Columbus during the remainder of the season, including both of the Crew's matches in the U.S. Open Cup. At the end of the season, Kempin was named as the winner of the club's Kirk Urso Heart Award as the player that "best exemplified the qualities of a teammate and became 'the heart' of the Black & Gold’s locker room."{{cite news|last=Murphy|first=Pat|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2019/10/18/20920967/columbus-crew-sc-team-awards-pedro-santos-gyasi-zardes-jonathan-mensah-luis-argudo-jon-kempin-2019|title=Santos, Zardes highlight Crew's 2019 team award winners|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 23, 2020|date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 30, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130100136/https://www.massivereport.com/2019/10/18/20920967/columbus-crew-sc-team-awards-pedro-santos-gyasi-zardes-jonathan-mensah-luis-argudo-jon-kempin-2019|url-status=dead}} Although his contract expired following the season, on October 21 it was announced that Kempin had signed a new contract with Columbus and would return to the Crew in 2020.{{cite news|last=Murphy|first=Pat|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2019/10/21/20924556/columbus-crew-sc-roster-decisions-federico-higuain-wil-trapp-pedro-santos-hector-jimenez-mls-2020|title=Columbus Crew announces 2020 roster updates|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=January 23, 2020|date=October 21, 2019|archive-date=February 8, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220208164605/https://www.massivereport.com/2019/10/21/20924556/columbus-crew-sc-roster-decisions-federico-higuain-wil-trapp-pedro-santos-hector-jimenez-mls-2020|url-status=dead}}

The Crew acquired two goalkeepers ahead of the 2020 season, and in a bid for playing time Kempin was subsequently loaned out, joining USL Championship expansion side San Diego Loyal on March 6.{{cite news|last=Murphy|first=Pat|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2020/3/6/21168019/columbus-crew-send-jon-kempin-on-loan-to-usl-san-diego-loyal-sc-mls-2020|title=Crew send Jon Kempin on loan to San Diego Loyal SC|website=Massive Report|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=March 6, 2020|date=March 6, 2020|archive-date=September 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926090305/https://www.massivereport.com/2020/3/6/21168019/columbus-crew-send-jon-kempin-on-loan-to-usl-san-diego-loyal-sc-mls-2020|url-status=dead}} Kempin made his San Diego debut on March 11 in a 2–1 victory against Tacoma Defiance.{{cite news|last=Spiering|first=Chris|url=https://www.eastvillagetimes.com/sd-loyal-sc-earn-first-inaugural-win-2-1-against-tacoma/|title=SD Loyal SC earn first inaugural win 2–1 against Tacoma|website=East Village Times|access-date=December 23, 2020|date=March 11, 2020}} He kept his place in the team after the season was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, starting the first four games for the Loyal after the resumption.{{cite news|last=Carter|first=Ivan|url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/story/2020-08-01/no-goals-plenty-of-fouls-in-loyal-tie|title=No goals, plenty of fouls in Loyal tie|website=The San Diego Union-Tribune|publisher=Nant Capital LLC|access-date=December 23, 2020|date=August 1, 2020}} Kempin missed time in both August and September due to injuries but finished the shortened season with 11 appearances in San Diego.{{cite news|last=Stone|first=Chris|url=https://timesofsandiego.com/sports/2020/08/29/injured-goalie-returns-helps-san-diego-loyal-keep-host-oc-scoreless/|title=Injured Goalie Returns, Helps San Diego Loyal Keep Host OC Scoreless|website=Times of San Diego|access-date=December 23, 2020|date=August 29, 2020}}{{cite news|last=James|first=Aaron Bradley|url=https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2020/09/25/prfc-bizarre-ending-sd-loyal/|title=Bizarre ending to Phoenix Rising match rattles USLC Group B playoff picture|website=Cronkite News|publisher=KAET|access-date=December 23, 2020|date=September 25, 2020}} Heading into the season finale against Phoenix Rising, he was leading the way for the league's Golden Glove, but lost out on the award to Danny Vitiello: the Loyal walked off the field and forfeited after Collin Martin received homophobic abuse from a Phoenix player. Kempin was credited with three goals allowed for the 3–0 forfeit.{{cite news|url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/landon-donovans-san-diego-loyal-forfeit-game-over-alleged-homophobic-abuse-1601553499000|title=Landon Donovan's San Diego Loyal forfeit game over alleged homophobic abuse|website=FourFourTwo|publisher=Future plc|access-date=December 23, 2020|date=October 1, 2020}} After returning to Columbus, Kempin did not make an appearance as the Crew won MLS Cup 2020.{{cite news|last=Herrera|first=Sandra|url=https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/mls-cup-score-columbus-crew-defeat-seattle-sounders-to-win-mls-cup-behind-zelarayan-brace/live/|title=MLS Cup score: Columbus Crew are MLS champions, defeating the Seatlle Sounders thanks to a Zelarayan brace|website=CBSSports.com|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=December 24, 2020|date=December 12, 2020}} Eloy Room and Andrew Tarbell shared the starting job during the club's playoff run, and Kempin also missed the Eastern Conference final after reportedly testing positive for COVID-19.{{cite news|last=Myers|first=Jacob|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2020/11/28/one-more-columbus-crew-player-tests-positive-covid-19-seven-total/6454757002/|title=Another player tests positive; seven players listed as unavailable vs. Nashville SC|website=The Columbus Dispatch|publisher=Gannett|access-date=December 24, 2020|date=November 28, 2020|url-access=limited}}

On January 8, 2021, Kempin was traded to D.C. United in exchange for a third round pick in the 2021 MLS SuperDraft.{{cite news|last=Goff|first=Steven|author-link=Steven Goff|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/01/08/dc-united-columbus-crew-trade-jon-kempin/|title=D.C. United acquires backup goalkeeper Jon Kempin from Columbus Crew|website=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings|access-date=January 8, 2021|date=January 8, 2021|url-access=subscription}} He appeared to be the third goalkeeper on the depth chart at the beginning of the season, behind starter Bill Hamid and Chris Seitz.{{cite news|last=Anderson|first=Jason|url=https://www.blackandredunited.com/2021/4/14/22324331/dc-united-2021-season-preview-hernan-losada|title=D.C. United 2021 season preview|website=Black and Red United|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 30, 2021|date=April 14, 2021}} However, after an injury to Hamid and three straight losses with Seitz in net, Kempin made his club debut on May 13 and made three saves in a 1–0 victory over Chicago Fire.{{cite news|last=Anderson|first=Jason|url=https://www.blackandredunited.com/2021/5/13/22434865/dc-united-chicago-fire-mls-2021-recap-final-score-highlights|title=Edison Flores’s first MLS goal leads D.C. United to 1–0 win over Chicago Fire|website=Black and Red United|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 30, 2021|date=May 13, 2021}} His longest run in the starting lineup arrived after Hamid was injured midway through a game against Columbus in August: Kempin replaced Hamid in that game and then started the next six for D.C.{{cite news|last=Goff|first=Steven|author-link=Steven Goff|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/08/06/bill-hamid-hamstring-injury-dc-united/|title=D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid to miss 5-6 weeks with hamstring injury|website=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings|access-date=December 30, 2021|date=August 6, 2021|url-access=subscription}} He finished with 10 appearances, his personal-best mark in an MLS season. At the end of the year, Kempin had his contract option declined by the club, but United confirmed that the sides remained in discussions on a new contract.{{cite news|last1=Keefer|first1=Ryan|last2=Anderson|first2=Jason|url=https://www.blackandredunited.com/2021/11/29/22807685/dc-united-2021-mls-offseason-roster-yordy-reyna-yamil-asad-joseph-mora-ramon-abila-brendan-hines-ike|title=D.C. United announce post-season roster moves|website=Black and Red United|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 30, 2021|date=November 29, 2021}} He officially re-signed with D.C. on February 4, 2022.{{cite press release|url=https://www.dcunited.com/news/d-c-united-re-signed-goalkeeper-jon-kempin-to-one-year-deal|title=D.C. United Re-signed Goalkeeper Jon Kempin to One-Year Deal|location=Washington, D.C.|publisher=D.C. United|access-date=June 17, 2022|date=February 4, 2022}} Following the 2022 season, his contract option was declined by D.C. United.{{cite news|last=Floyd|first=Thomas|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/11/14/dc-united-offseason-moves/|title=Bill Hamid, Ola Kamara enter free agency as D.C. United trims roster|website=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings|access-date=18 January 2023|date=14 November 2022|url-access=limited}}

On February 26, 2023, Kempin announced his retirement from professional soccer on his personal Twitter account.{{Cite tweet |user=JonKempin21 |number=1630001115214249985 |title=THANK YOU SOCCER 🖤}}

Before signing his first professional contract, Kempin had participated in training camps with the United States under-15 and under-18 national teams, as well as a stint in the under-17 residency program at the IMG Soccer Academy.{{cite web|url=https://www.sportingkc.com/players/jon-kempin|title=Jon Kempin – Sporting Kansas City profile|website=Sporting Kansas City|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=December 2, 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191028235904/https://www.sportingkc.com/players/jon-kempin|archive-date=October 28, 2019}} His first competitive youth national team appearances, though, arrived at the under-20 level. In the winter of 2010, Kempin was included in the American squad for the Torneo de las Americas, playing in two matches, and the Traditional Winter Tournament in Israel, where he played twice more.{{cite news|last=Davis|first=Noah|url=https://www.lagalaxy.com/post/2010/11/29/us-u-20s-fall-penalties-mexico-torneo|title=US U-20s fall on penalties to Mexico in Torneo|website=LA Galaxy|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=November 29, 2010}}{{cite news|url=http://www.ussoccer.com/news/u-18-mnt/2010/12/u18-mnt-rounds-out-trip-to-tel-aviv-with-loss-to-germany.aspx|title=U18 MNT Rounds Out Trip to Tel Aviv with Loss to Germany|website=United States Soccer Federation|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=December 17, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130424114915/http://www.ussoccer.com/news/u-18-mnt/2010/12/u18-mnt-rounds-out-trip-to-tel-aviv-with-loss-to-germany.aspx|archive-date=April 24, 2013}} He returned to the under-18 setup in 2011, representing the U.S. at the Lisbon International Tournament and the Milk Cup.{{cite news|last=Austin|first=Kurt|url=https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2011/07/13/kempin-named-us-under-18-national-team|title=Kempin named to US Under-18 National Team|website=Sporting Kansas City|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=July 13, 2011}} Kempin also earned his first call-up to the under-23 national team that year, sitting on the bench for a friendly against Azerbaijan in November.{{cite news|url=https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/12/48/u23-mnt-ties-azerbaijan|title=U-23 men's national team ties Azerbaijan 0–0 in Duisberg|website=United States Soccer Federation|access-date=December 27, 2018|date=November 11, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181228091600/https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/12/48/u23-mnt-ties-azerbaijan|archive-date=December 28, 2018}} After more than a year out of the youth national teams, Kempin returned to the under-20s in January 2013. In a friendly against Panama, he replaced Kendall McIntosh at halftime and conceded both goals in a 2–1 defeat.{{cite news|url=https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/12/09/u20-mnt-falls-to-panama-in-second-international-friendly-in-mexico|title=U.S. U-20 MNT falls 2–1 to Panama in second international friendly|website=United States Soccer Federation|access-date=December 27, 2018|date=January 21, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181228090041/https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/12/09/u20-mnt-falls-to-panama-in-second-international-friendly-in-mexico|archive-date=December 28, 2018}} He again earned just one call-up in 2014, taking part in the first-ever training camp for the under-21 national team.{{cite news|last=Rosenblatt|first=Ryan|url=https://www.starsandstripesfc.com/usa-u-20-17/2014/4/21/5636210/usa-u-21-soccer-camp-roster|title=USA U-21 team gathers for first ever training camp|website=Stars and Stripes|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=April 21, 2014}}

In January 2015, Kempin earned his first call-up to the United States senior national team, with head coach Jürgen Klinsmann including the then-21-year-old as one of four goalkeepers in the squad for a pair of friendlies.{{cite news|last=McDowell|first=Sam|url=https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article5694612.html|title=Sporting KC's Matt Besler, Jon Kempin receive U.S. national team call-ups|website=The Kansas City Star|publisher=McClatchy|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=January 9, 2015}} However, Kempin did not appear in either match during the camp, with Nick Rimando and Sean Johnson splitting the minutes.{{cite news|last=Kaplan|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2015/02/16/jon-kempin-hungry-more-after-first-usmnt-camp|title=Jon Kempin hungry for more after first USMNT camp|website=Sporting Kansas City|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=February 16, 2015}} That November, Kempin made his under-23 debut and earned his final youth national team cap in a friendly against Brazil. He replaced Charlie Horton and played 45 minutes in a 2–1 defeat.{{cite news|last=Bell|first=Thad|url=https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/11/12/9725304/kempin-goes-45-for-u23s-in-brazil|title=Kempin goes 45 for U23's in Brazil|website=The Blue Testament|publisher=SB Nation|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=November 12, 2015|archive-date=October 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021082816/https://www.thebluetestament.com/2015/11/12/9725304/kempin-goes-45-for-u23s-in-brazil|url-status=dead}}

Kempin is one of three children to his parents, Julie and Vance. He played baseball and basketball as well as soccer while growing up, with his father coaching him in baseball.{{cite news|last=Harmon|first=Dawn|url=https://www.bluevalleyrecreationonline.com/article/197|title=Start here, go anywhere|website=Blue Valley Recreation|publisher=Blue Valley USD 229|access-date=December 29, 2021|date=July 14, 2011|archive-date=December 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211229232558/https://www.bluevalleyrecreationonline.com/article/197|url-status=dead}}

After signing with Sporting Kansas City, Kempin took college classes at Johnson County Community College. He later earned his Bachelor and Master of Business Administration degrees from Southern New Hampshire University, part of a program between the university and Major League Soccer to help players complete their degrees while playing.{{cite news|url=https://everybodysoccer.com/even-the-goalkeepers-like-to/2015/11/25/jon-kempin-interview|title=Jon Kempin interview: Homegrown goalkeeper looking forward|website=Everybody Soccer|access-date=December 29, 2021|date=November 25, 2015}}

Outside of soccer, Kempin is a licensed real estate agent at ReeceNichols, following his mother and grandmother in the profession.{{cite web|url=https://www.reecenichols.com/bio/jonkempin|title=Jon Kempin – Bio – ReeceNichols|website=ReeceNichols|access-date=December 29, 2021}} Kempin joined the Sporting KC radio broadcast team as an analyst for the 2024 season.{{Cite web |last=City |first=Sporting Kansas |title=Sporting Kansas City announces new radio broadcast team for 2024 season |url=https://www.sportingkc.com/news/sporting-kansas-city-announces-new-radio-broadcast-team-for-2024-season |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Sporting Kansas City |language=en}}

{{updated|June 11, 2022|}}

{{notelist}}

;Sporting Kansas City{{cite web|url=https://www.sportingkc.com/club/history|title=Sporting Kansas City – History|website=Sporting Kansas City|publisher=Major League Soccer|access-date=January 13, 2019}}

• MLS Cup: 2013
• U.S. Open Cup: 2012, 2015

;Orlando City

• USL Cup: 2013

;Columbus Crew SC

• MLS Cup: 2020

;Individual

• Kansas State Player of the Year: 2009
• Parade Boys' Soccer High School All-American: 2009
• MLS Homegrown Game Most Valuable Player: 2014
• Blue Valley North High School Athletic Hall of Fame: 2017
• Kansas Soccer Hall of Fame: 2017
• Kirk Urso Heart Award: 2019

{{Portal|Association football|Biography|Kansas|Sports}}

• All-time Columbus Crew roster
• All-time D.C. United roster
• All-time Orlando City SC (2010–2014) roster
• All-time Sporting Kansas City roster
• List of people from Leawood, Kansas

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{MLS player|jon-kempin}}
• [http://www.nasl.com/roster/jon--kempin Jon Kempin] at North American Soccer League
• {{USL Championship player|jon-kempin}}
• {{FBref|063adc5e/Jon-Kempin}}
• {{WorldFootball.net|jon-kempin}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Kempin, Jon}}

Category:1993 births

Category:Living people

Category:American men's soccer players

Category:People from Leawood, Kansas

Category:Soccer players from Johnson County, Kansas

Category:Men's association football goalkeepers

Category:Sporting Kansas City players

Category:Orlando City SC (2010–2014) players

Category:OKC Energy FC players

Category:San Antonio Scorpions players

Category:Sporting Kansas City II players

Category:LA Galaxy players

Category:Ventura County FC players

Category:Columbus Crew players

Category:Hartford Athletic players

Category:San Diego Loyal SC players

Category:D.C. United players

Category:Loudoun United FC players

Category:Major League Soccer players

Category:USL Championship players

Category:North American Soccer League (2011–2017) players

Category:United States men's youth international soccer players

Category:United States men's under-20 international soccer players

Category:United States men's under-23 international soccer players

Category:Parade High School All-Americans (boys' soccer)

Category:Homegrown Players (MLS)

Category:21st-century American sportsmen