Today I had the privilege of joining the rest of Illinois in recognizing 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.

The last Little League team from Chicago to make it nearly this far was in 1967. We were long overdue for another run at the championship. Jackie Robinson West's teamwork, dedication, and perseverance is nothing short of an inspiration to myself and our entire country. 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.

From Chicago's South Side, the Jackie Robinson West team consists of 13 players aged 11-13 years old. Please join me in congratulating the following players on their accomplishment:

#1 DJ Butler	#7 Lawrence Noble	#8 Jaheim Benton	#9 Ed Howard
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#10 Cameron Bufford	#14 Brandon Green	#15 Darion Radcliff	#16 Marquis Jackson
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#17 Joshua Houston	#18 Eddie King	#22 Prentiss Luster	#23 Pierce Jones
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#24 Trey Hondras
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These young men are an inspiration to their peers across Chicago and throughout the nation. Today I presented these young men with a copy of a statement that I will be submitting into the official Congressional record when I return to Washington, D.C. in September. I am exceedingly proud of their accomplishments and wish them best of luck in this upcoming school year.

Read the statement:

Roster courtesy of the Little League World Series.