HR0203 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0203 LRB104 12779 MST 24049 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate the Kenwood Academy girls basketball team on its historic victory in the 2024-2025 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 4A State Championship, the first state title in the program's history; and

WHEREAS, On March 8, 2025, Kenwood Academy defeated William Fremd High School 65-44 at Redbird Arena on the campus of Illinois State University, capping a remarkable season marked by discipline, resilience, and excellence; and

WHEREAS, This victory represents a significant milestone not only for Kenwood Academy but also for Chicago's South Side, as the team became a symbol of pride, inspiration, and achievement for the community, the school, and the City of Chicago; and

WHEREAS, The players demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, sportsmanship, and teamwork throughout the season, showcasing the power of hard work and unity; and

WHEREAS, The Kenwood Academy girls basketball team roster includes the following talented student-athletes: Ariella Henigan, Danielle Brooks, Diann Jackson, Jada Hamilton-Gill, Laila Walker George, Jasmine McDaniel, Kyra Gavin, Zoe Fowler, Laila Richardson-Jenkins, Jada Kitson, Briana Survillion, Kyla Barksdale, and Demon Page; and

WHEREAS, The team was expertly led by Head Coach Andre Lewis, who provided strategic leadership and mentorship, along with Assistant Coaches A. McDaniel, Demon Page, K. Barksdale, B. Chick, Ky Gavin, and B. Survillion, all of whom played vital roles in supporting the players' development and success; and

WHEREAS, Throughout the season, the team's determination was unwavering as the players overcame challenges, remained focused on their goals, and ultimately rose to the top of Class 4A basketball; and

WHEREAS, The championship win was met with citywide celebration, and a pep rally at Kenwood Academy served as a heartfelt recognition of the team's monumental accomplishment, highlighting the significance of the team's journey and the inspiration it provided to peers and community members alike; and

WHEREAS, The Kenwood Academy girls basketball team's success in the IHSA State Championship is a reflection of outstanding coaching, exceptional student-athletes, and a supportive school community, all working together toward excellence; and

WHEREAS, Winning an IHSA state championship requires tremendous discipline, preparation, and passion, and Kenwood Academy has now earned its place in Illinois sports history through this trailblazing achievement; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the Kenwood Academy girls basketball team on their historic 2024-2025 IHSA Class 4A State Championship victory and honor their commitment, excellence, and representation of the very best of student athletics in Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be presented to the players, the coaches, the staff, the principal, and the administration of Kenwood Academy as a lasting symbol of our respect, admiration, and esteem.