Collins and the Chicago Football Classic Welcome Simeon Wolverines, Jabari Parker to Springfield
Katharine Eastvold
Published: April 23, 2013
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April 23, 2013 Katharine Eastvold 217-782-059
keastvold@senatedem.ilga.gov
Collins and The Chicago Football Classic
Welcome Simeon Wolverines, Jabari Parker to Springfield
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-16th) was honored to host the Simeon Career Academy Wolverines on their visit to the Capitol today, this time as state champions for the fourth consecutive year.
“This is a team that has overcome many obstacles and withstood tremendous pressure to prevail with a brand of basketball that values skill over showmanship and teamwork over star power,” Collins said. “With seven state championships — six in the past eight years — the Wolverines have more than established their legacy as one of the greatest teams in state history.”
Among the visiting players receiving the Senate’s congratulations was Simeon’s nationally ranked forward Jabari Parker. The All-American McDonald’s Player of the Year and the first ever two-time recipient of the Illinois Mr. Basketball Award, Parker will attend and play for Duke University in the fall.
“Jabari is a scholar, athlete and role model,” Collins said. “After suffering an injury and enduring months on the sidelines, he got back in shape, worked harder than ever and through his faith and sheer determination earned back his reputation for excellence and helped his team to victory.”
Other team leaders include Kendrick Nunn, four-time All-State and All-City Champion who has been selected to play in the American Family Insurance High School Slam Dunk Championships next month and is headed to the University of Illinois; Kendall Pollard, 35th ranked small forward in the country who will play for the Dayton Flyers and Jaylon Tate, point guard, who will also attend the University of Illinois.
“Thank you, young men, for standing strong for all the young people who look to you as examples of what an athlete can be,” Collins said.
Collins also recognized Coach Robert Smith and Chicago Football Classic’s Larry Huggins and Timothy and Everett Rand, who were proud to sponsor the Wolverines’ trip to the Capitol for Senate recognition. The Chicago Football Classic is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to encouraging African American youth to achieve their personal best in school and beyond.
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Posted in Education Initiatives