[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 9 (Wednesday, January 17, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S145]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO MIGUEL PEREZ

 Mr. SCHMITT. Madam President, I rise today to honor an 
impressive soccer player from my home State of Missouri, Miguel Perez. 
He has achieved athletic excellence and success at a young age. I am 
proud to highlight this talented soccer player who should be noted for 
his ability to perform on the pitch, as well as his desire to serve his 
neighbors.
  Hailing from St. Louis, this young prodigy recently reached a 
significant career milestone. Two days after graduating from 
Pattonville High School, Miguel scored his first career Major League 
Soccer--MLS--goal as a new striker for the St. Louis City SC 
professional team. Miguel's ascent from local school sports to the pros 
proves his exceptional skill and work ethic on the field. Yet his 
achievement also encapsulates the realization of dreams for Miguel, his 
family, and the wider St. Louis community.
  The son of Jackie and Luis Perez, who instilled values of discipline 
and public service in Miguel from a young age, Miguel grew up embracing 
soccer as a passion and outlet. During high school and now into his 
professional soccer career, he maintains academic rigor and community 
engagement, values modeled by his parents' commitments to Washington 
University's Orthopedic Department and the St. Louis County Police 
Department.
  Miguel Perez is truly a Champion of Missouri. Furthermore, he is a 
champion of athletics for Missouri. His early successes in soccer 
mirror the resilience, character, and work ethic that define our 
community. I look forward to following his continued growth and career 
in the MLS. I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Perez 
for his success and service to Missouri. St. Louis stands proud--``Who 
are we? S-T-L!''

                          ____________________