Recognizing Leilani Caamal

Floor Speech

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Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of 17-year-old Leilani Caamal, who has broken barriers to become a tackle football star and wrestling standout.

Since she was nine years old, Leilani has tackled the stereotype that girls can't and don't play football. Leilani put on shoulder pads and a helmet to play tackle football like her brother. In the past two years, she's emerged as an All-American linebacker for the Mile High Blaze, a women's semi-pro tackle football team that is a part of the Women's Football Alliance.

Leilani represents the future of women's tackle football as it continues to grow in popularity. She's currently a linebacker on the Vista Peak High School boys varsity football team working to be a leader and role model for young girls both on and off the field. Like the trailblazers who paved the way before her, Leilani wants to inspire girls and young women by demonstrating the opportunities and choices available to them.

Leilani not only excels on the football field, but is also leading the way in the growth of women's wrestling across the country. With big Olympic and gold medal aspirations, I have no doubt Leilani's courage and perseverance will bring her success whether it's in football or wrestling.

Young women like Leilani represent the future of tackle football and women's sports--fostering and promoting an accepting environment for young women and girls to pursue their athletic goals. Leilani motivates and inspires not only her peers, but the next generation of young female athletes who have their eyes on male-dominated sports. I am proud to recognize Leilani for her athletic successes and thank her for her relentless pursuit fighting for an inclusive environment for women in sports.

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