[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 127 (Monday, September 8, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S5370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              JACKIE ROBINSON WEST LITTLE LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

 Mr. KIRK. Mr. President, I wish to recognize Chicago's very 
own Jackie Robinson West Little League team, who are the reigning 2014 
Little League World Series U.S. Champions. Jackie Robinson West is the 
first team from Chicago to reach the Little League World Series in more 
than 40 years. They have brought immense pride to our city, and I 
commend them on their incredible achievement.
  From Chicago's South Side, the Jackie Robinson West team consists of 
13 players aged 11-13 years old. The last Little League team from 
Chicago to make it nearly this far was in 1967, and we were long 
overdue for another run at the championship. These 13 players worked 
together for countless hours to bring their A-game to the field. During 
their season, they outscored their opponents by a score of 212 to 28! 
Their teamwork, dedication to their teammates and coaches, and 
perseverance to become champions is nothing short of an inspiration to 
myself and our entire country.
  Jackie Robinson West showed us all what true dedication, tireless 
effort and teamwork can achieve. They represented our Nation with great 
pride and sportsmanship on and off the field, and I am proud of each 
and every one of these young men for what they have achieved and for 
the sense of pride and accomplishment that they have brought to our 
city. They are an inspiration to young men and women across Chicago and 
throughout the Nation.
  I want to personally congratulate DJ Butler, Lawrence Noble, Jaheim 
Benton, Ed Howard, Cameron Bufford, Brandon Green, Darion Radcliff, 
Marquis Jackson, Joshua Houston, Eddie King, Prentiss Luster, Pierce 
Jones, Trey Hondras, their coach Darold Butler, director Bill Haley, 
and assistant coaches Jerry Houston and Jason Little on their historic 
win. I am exceedingly proud of their accomplishments and wish them best 
of luck in this upcoming school year.

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