Governor Quinn Statement on Jackie Robinson West Little League Team

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today issued the following statement on the Jackie Robinson West Little League team's regional championship victory. The Chicago South Side team will now head to Williamsport, Pa. to compete in the Little League World Series.

"With power and poise, this group of young ballplayers has outperformed opponents across the state, region and now they have their eyes, gloves and hearts set on a bigger field.

"Last year, Jackie Robinson West came one game short of the big tournament. As underdogs they achieved so much that I declared it ‘Jackie Robinson West Little League Champions Day' across Illinois.

"Like Jackie Robinson, they didn't hang up their cleats in the face of adversity. Now this year for the first time since 1983, they will get to compete in the Little League World Series.

"This group of young ballplayers and their coaches have made all of Illinois proud. I wish them the best of luck as they represent our state on the worldwide stage."