IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing, celebrating, and honoring the Kansas City East High School Bears Soccer Team for their exemplary 2023 Class 3 State Championship.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 21482, December 4, 2023
INTRODUCED BY Megan L. Marshall, Manuel Abarca IV, and Jalen Anderson, County Legislators
Body
WHEREAS, the Jackson County Legislature, in a spirit of joy and pride, pauses to acknowledge the extraordinary achievements of the Kansas City East High School Bears soccer team for their historic triumph in securing the 2023 Class 3 State Championship over Ladue Horton Watkins; and,
WHEREAS, this momentous victory holds particular significance as it marks the first state championship in any sport for East High School in the last 94 years, since 1929, signifying not only the team's prowess on the field but also their unwavering commitment and dedication; and,
WHEREAS, the coaching staff, consisting of the esteemed Head Coach Gerzo Guerrero and Assistant Coaches Javier Alvarado and Amanda Dennison, and Team Manager Rashidi Mwenitanda played an instrumental role in molding the team's character, fostering sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork; and,
WHEREAS, a heartfelt salute is extended to the exceptional Seniors whose leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on the success of the team: Chrispin Abwe, Msafiri Ebunga, Msafiri Ebumbe, Jean Byaombe, Samuel Habimana, Etando Juma, Lomge Kebe, Maposo Itongwa, Jackson Twizerimana, Mayson Victor, and Elias Pelico Perez; and,
WHEREAS, the contributions of the talented Juniors, who demonstrated outstanding skill and determination throughout the season, deserve commendation: Shukuru Hassani, Zekarias Zekarias, Byaombe Makamba, Esube Byoke, Mugisha Mutabazi, Hussein Mwanue, and Omari Shabani; and,
WHEREAS, the future of the team shines bright with the remarkable Sophomores, each playing a pivotal role in the team's success: Donat Ekengya and Juan Bustamante Vergara; and,
WHEREAS, the Freshman, Echa Dunia and Hector Salazar Ramirez, have shown great promise and potential, marking the beginning of a promising soccer journey at East High School; and,
WHEREAS, the East High School Bears soccer team stands as a testament to the vibrant diversity of our community, with student-athletes from around the world, including Africa and Haiti, exemplifying the power of unity in the pursuit of a common goal; and,
WHEREAS, East High School, in securing the state championship, has made history as the first predominately Black high school to win a soccer state championship in the illustrious history of high school boys’ soccer in the state of Missouri, breaking down barriers and inspiring generations to come; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the Jackson County Legislature extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Kansas City East High School Bears soccer team, coaches, and players for their outstanding achievements, resilience, and sportsmanship that have brought honor and pride to our community; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the official minutes of the Jackson County Legislature, and a copy thereof be presented to the Kansas City East High School Bears soccer team, Head Coach Gerzo Guerrero, Assistant Coaches Javier Alvarado and Amanda Dennison, and Team Manager Rashidi Mwenitanda, as a lasting token of our community's gratitude and admiration.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon its passage by a majority of the Legislature.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________
County Counselor
Certificate of Passage
I hereby certify that the attached resolution, Resolution No. 21482 of December 4, 2023, was duly passed on December 4, 2023 by the Jackson County Legislature. The votes thereon were as follows:
Yeas ______9_________ Nays ______0________
Abstaining ____0_____ Absent _____0_______
________________________ ____________________________
Date Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of Legislature