[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1494]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CONGRATULATING ALL-BLADE BASKETBALL PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

  (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, with March Madness coming to a close last 
night, it is with joy that I rise to celebrate two exceptional young, 
local basketball stars from northwest Ohio: Makhi Leach from Whitmer 
High School and Elise Bender from Anthony Wayne High School, who were 
named the 2025 All-Blade Basketball Players of the Year.
  Makhi Leach is a force to be reckoned with on the court. He dazzled 
all of the audience with his skill, determination, and unshakable 
leadership. A playmaker in every sense of the word, Makhi not only put 
up impressive numbers but also lifted his teammates, making everyone 
around him better.
  Elise Bender has proven that hard work and passion are unstoppable 
forces. A true competitor, Elise has set the standard for what it means 
to be an elite student athlete, not just through her impressive 
performance, but through her sportsmanship, commitment to her team, and 
relentless drive to push beyond her limits.
  Both of these young athletes have represented their schools, 
families, and communities with honor, and this is only the beginning. 
Makhi will play next year for Bowling Green State University, while 
Elise will suit up for Villanova. Their talent, determination, and 
leadership will take them far. Northwest Ohio will be cheering them on 
every single step of the way. They are the future.

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