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* We talked last month about how the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame planned to present Gov. JB Pritzker with its Lifetime Contribution to Sport Award. The ceremony was held earlier this week and they played a video highlighting his accomplishments. “Combining political acumen with a passion for sports, JB played a pivotal role in enacting significant legislative changes benefiting Illinois sports communities.”
From the governor’s remarks after he thanked his hosts…
This is truly an extraordinary honor.
Now probably no one, most especially me, thought that I would be inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame, especially not alongside really some of the world’s greatest athletes.
But Chicago has produced and shaped some of this nation’s greatest players. And I want to say I’m all too aware that for every Dwayne Wade, Dick Butkus and Candace Parker there are an untold number of young people who are never able to pursue their athletic dreams because of financial or societal limitations. As Governor, I feel a profound sense of responsibility to counter that loss of opportunity. And that’s one reason why my administration has expanded college scholarship funding to record levels, and why I signed legislation allowing NCAA athletes to sign endorsement deals.
Since we enacted the Rebuild Illinois capital plan, we’ve revitalized recreation centers and parks and community facilities where often it all begins. And these are safe places for young people to hang out and develop their skills and their passions, all while staying active.
Looking at this exceptional group of athletes and coaches and supporters and leaders that are here tonight, I’m so proud of the culture and the history of Chicago sports, and even more excited to think of what this ceremony will look like five and 10 and 20 years, and maybe 50 years in the future. The kind of dreams that we’ll be able to fulfill and, of course, the rooms that we’ll fill.
Maybe I can emulate Sister Jean so that years in the future, I could come back on this stage to present this same honor to a Chicagoan who today hasn’t even been born yet. And Sister Jean is one of my heroes, really.
Again, thank you to Chairman Carey, to the board for this truly wonderful honor. And most importantly, thanks to all of you who highlight the accomplishments of so many women and men athletes who set a fine example for the next generation. Congratulations to my fellow inductees and enjoy the rest of the evening. Thank you.
Please pardon all transcription errors.
This post can be considered an Illinois sports open thread.
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 10:25 am
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Not specifically sports related, but one of my favorite parts of the personality of JB, is how he leans into things like this with humor and humility.
It’s not often my view of a public office holder consistently improves over time.
He really is one of the greatest assets this state has currently.
Comment by TheInvisibleMan Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 10:57 am
RIP Dick Butkus- amazing player, cared deeply for Chicago and Illinois
Comment by Frida's boss Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 11:08 am
I’m really glad the Bears won to honor the memory of Butkus - He really was a symbol for Chicago - gritty, imposing on the field and a devoted husband, father, and ambassador for the Bears and Illinois off of it.
Comment by Chicagonk Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 11:14 am
Illini, Algonquin word that translates to “Those That Rarely Bowl”.
Comment by Give Me A Break Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 11:21 am
I have seen some of that expansion of opportunity the Governor referenced. In places like Decatur, Millikin University (a private) and Decatur Park District created a wonderful athletics facility right beside the University, open to students and all.
I can only hope that soon, such spending will come to rural Illinois. Not Macomb (a great place for athletics), but those rural places long ignored if not forgotten. Our kids here need the same hopes and help as urban central city kids. I coached little league here for five years on a field that barely functioned due to the absence of property tax revenues and the absence of state support.
But I remain optimistic for a brighter future for all Illinois children. And I recognize the commitments Mr. Pritzker has made to ensuring a better future for our children.
Comment by H-W Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 12:04 pm
listening to OB and Hamp before the game last night was so sad. OB met Butkus when he was in college & Dick’s brother was on the Ill. team. Dick was only 14 when OB met him. OB lost Dougie and that was hard. this one makes you feel the years on OB.
Comment by Amalia Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 12:41 pm
The Chase Claypool era is now over. Hardly worth giving up a second round pick for a guy who had fewer total receiving yards than DJ Moore had last night.
Comment by Pundent Friday, Oct 6, 23 @ 3:33 pm