On the recordSeptember 9, 2016
Today I rise to recognize the remarkable achievements of the Kennewick American Youth baseball team, the reigning U.S. champions. The Kennewick American team won the United States Division of the Cal Ripken World Series Tournament to become the U.S. champions. They then finished second in the world, competing against the best young baseball talent from around the world. Kennewick's own Simeon Howard was named the MVP of the U.S. side of the tournament, while setting a tournament record for hits. With the support of their families and local community, Kennewick American concluded its season with an impressive 36 and 5 record, while becoming the first team from the Pacific Northwest to ever reach the championship game. This is an incredible achievement for the State of Washington as well as the Pacific Northwest. I am proud to represent these young men in Congress. I congratulate the players and their coach, Bryan Knapik, on their tremendous success and look forward to following their run next season. ____________________
