CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today issued the following statement on the Jackie Robinson West Little League team's final game of the Little League World Series:
"Jackie Robinson West has made a legendary run and finished runner-up, placing at the second best spot for any little league team across the world.
"Over these past few weeks, communities across the nation came together to watch these young boys from the South Side of Chicago win game after game against the best young ballplayers in the world.
"Throughout the tournament they have made Illinois proud and represented the very best our state has to offer.
"When they return to Chicago, they will return as true sportsmen. Everyone now knows the Jackie Robinson West team and will remember when communities across our state came together to support their special season.
"I thank Coach Butler and the families of our players who have mentored and supported the Jackie Robinson West team on and off the field. Lessons learned in competitive sports often become values instilled for a lifetime.
"Congratulations on a fantastic season, Jackie Robinson West, our very own dream team. You have made Illinois very proud."
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