Mayor Rahm Emanuel today spoke with Jackie Robinson West All-Stars coach Darold Butler to wish his team luck on behalf of the City of Chicago as they compete in the Little League Great Lakes Regional Finals. The team is just one victory away from the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The 11- and 12-year-olds from South and Southwest side communities such as Auburn Gresham, Englewood, Morgan Park and Washington Heights compete for the regional championship on Saturday against New Albany, Indiana.

“I want to congratulate Chicago’s very own Jackie Robinson West team on their tremendous season and wish them continued success this weekend,” said Mayor Emanuel. “Chicago is proud to have such talented and driven young men represent our city and we will be rooting for them in Saturday’s game.”

In July, Jackie Robinson West won the Illinois Little League Championship to advance to the Great Lakes Regional Tournament. They recently defeated the team from Canfield, Ohio 13-2 to progress to the regional finals.

“We are trying to stay focused,” said Coach Darold Butler. “We want to represent Chicago and Illinois well, and make our great city proud.”

No Chicago team has qualified for the Little League World Series since Jackie Robinson West in 1983. Saturday’s game will air on ESPN at 1p.m.

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