[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 145 (Friday, September 9, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E907-E908]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING LEILANI CAAMAL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JASON CROW

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 9, 2022

  Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
accomplishments of 17-year-old Leilani Caamal, who has broken barriers 
to become a tackle football star and wrestling standout.

[[Page E908]]

  Since she was nine years old, Leilani has tackled the stereotype that 
girls can't and don't play football. Leilani put on shoulder pads and a 
helmet to play tackle football like her brother. In the past two years, 
she's emerged as an All-American linebacker for the Mile High Blaze, a 
women's semi-pro tackle football team that is a part of the Women's 
Football Alliance.
  Leilani represents the future of women's tackle football as it 
continues to grow in popularity. She's currently a linebacker on the 
Vista Peak High School boys varsity football team working to be a 
leader and role model for young girls both on and off the field. Like 
the trailblazers who paved the way before her, Leilani wants to inspire 
girls and young women by demonstrating the opportunities and choices 
available to them.
  Leilani not only excels on the football field, but is also leading 
the way in the growth of women's wrestling across the country. With big 
Olympic and gold medal aspirations, I have no doubt Leilani's courage 
and perseverance will bring her success whether it's in football or 
wrestling.
  Young women like Leilani represent the future of tackle football and 
women's sports--fostering and promoting an accepting environment for 
young women and girls to pursue their athletic goals. Leilani motivates 
and inspires not only her peers, but the next generation of young 
female athletes who have their eyes on male-dominated sports. I am 
proud to recognize Leilani for her athletic successes and thank her for 
her relentless pursuit fighting for an inclusive environment for women 
in sports.

                          ____________________