[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 153 (Tuesday, October 28, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        THE PRINCESS WORE CLEATS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2003

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of 
Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an exceptional young 
woman from my district. Vanessa Lucero of Las Vegas, New Mexico has 
made quite a name for herself this month.
  Vanessa is a member of the West Las Vegas High School football team. 
On October 12, the 5-foot-1-inch, 103-pound freshman made history in 
New Mexico.
  Vanessa--a tailback--scored a touchdown running in for the score from 
the 1-yard line. She is believed to be New Mexico's first high school 
female player to score a touchdown in a game. Her contribution to the 
team has already improved the West Las Vegas Dons' record to 5-2. 
Amazingly, Vanessa is also on the wrestling team.
  As if this accomplishment were not enough, during half-time of the 
same game, Vanessa was crowned Freshman Princess for homecoming, still 
wearing her No. 11 jersey. The gown she wore to the dance that night 
was green and yellow--the Dons' colors.
  Since this wonderful achievement, Vanessa has received enormous 
attention from the New Mexico and national media. In addition to news 
stories chronicling her actions, she has been the subject of glowing 
newspaper editorials. She was also invited on NBC's Today Show and 
interviewed by Matt Lauer. This media interest has not only made 
Vanessa's family and friends proud of her, it has brought favorable 
attention to our great state.
  What has happened in Las Vegas is larger than just an athletic 
accomplishment. With Vanessa's dual victories, she is helping to break 
down stereotypes that, unfortunately, are still common in our country. 
We should be happy with all of the progress we have made providing 
girls and women with opportunities previously denied them. However, we 
must continue our efforts to promote gender equality. As Vanessa is 
fond of saying, ``It's only a guy's sport until a girl joins.'' Indeed.
  At a time when far too many American children have sedentary lives 
where they do not move off the couch, and many are obese, we must 
support programs that lead to improved fitness and health. Adolescent 
female athletes are more apt than nonathletes to develop a positive 
body image, less likely to become pregnant, and are less at risk for 
developing women's diseases such as osteoporosis and breast cancer.
  In addition, sports provide a safe and healthy alternative to drugs, 
alcohol, and tobacco, and to antisocial behavior.
  Vanessa, unknowingly, has become a role model for girls everywhere. I 
am very proud that she and her family hail from my congressional 
district. Both of her accomplishments have made us so proud.
  Mr. Speaker, Vanessa Lucero is a special young woman and a valued 
citizen of San Miguel County and the state of New Mexico. I am honored 
to join with my colleagues in congratulating her for all of her 
successes.

                          ____________________