Recognizing the Kansas City Sports Commission Foundation
Floor Speech
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Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with immense pride to recognize and celebrate the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation for their contributions and achievements in promoting Kansas City sports locally and nationally in order to create economic development and recreational opportunities to achieve a better quality of life for the Greater Kansas City area. Notably, they are responsible for the 2023 NFL Draft's selection of Kansas City, and most recently, the selection as a host city for the 2026 World Cup. It is through the advocacy, passion for sports and its benefits, and overall dedication to our community that the Sports Commission enables others to see the immense potential Kansas City has to offer that too often has been overlooked. I am truly honored to represent an organization who works selflessly for the improvement of their community.
The KC Sports Commission and Foundation first opened its door as a privately funded, nonprofit membership organization on January 12, 1966. With Ernie Mehl as the first chairman of the volunteer-led organization, the Sports Commission's primary objectives rallied behind introducing a new professional baseball team, growing the number of Chiefs season ticket holders, and campaigning for the construction of a sports complex through the public and private sector. Through their commitment and diligence to achieve these goals, the Sports Commission garnered the support of various city leaders including Ewing Kauffman, Ray Evans, and Earl Smith.
As a testament to their dedication, the Sports Commission helped bring the Kansas City Royals and pass bond funding that led to the creation of the Truman Sports Complex, all within two years of their founding. By 1989, the organization was restructured as a 501(c)3 organization with Kevin M. Gray as its first paid staff member and Executive Director. Throughout its tenure, the organization has been housed at the Mid-America Lubermen's Association, the Cancer Society and finally in 2000, landed at 1308 Pennsylvania Avenue where the office was renamed The McGuff Sports Center, where it is currently located.
Since its inception, the Sports Commission has operated events such as Kansas City's Big 12 Run, the Kansas City Marathon presented by Garmin, and the Kansas City Sports Awards Banquet presented by Populous among many others. Additionally, it has helped organize and facilitate events such as the MLB All-Star Game in 2012, MLS All-Star Game in 2013, Kansas City Royals World Series Celebration and Parade in 2015, and the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in 2019. Under the leadership of President and CEO, Kathy Nelson, a KC native and leader, the Sports Commission is reaching new milestones in 2023 with a diverse sports event schedule that includes the Big 12 Tournament for men and women, a NCAA regional and the NFL Draft. The KC Sports Commission & Foundation have reached new horizons than ever before, bringing the Greater Kansas City area into the national and international spotlight. It is without a doubt that the city and its residents will reel in the benefits that will come from these events. The NFL Draft will show patrons locally and nationally the enthusiasm and spirit of our community and exhibit itself as an exemplary example to follow in our cities. This years' experience is expected to break records for having the largest stage and biggest screens in league history, offering a never-before-seen experience. As locals and visitors gather for one of the biggest events of the year, we honor and recognize the hard work of the Sports Commission that led us here. In three years from now, when Kansas City welcomes fans from all over the world for the 2026 World Cup, everyone will recognize the love and faith this organization has in its community. Ensuring that Kansas City was placed on the international stage was not an easy task, but the Sports Commission persevered and secured a spot as one of the host cities in the United States that'll offer a home to those tuning in for the world's most watched soccer event. There is no doubt that this organization will continue to thrive in the years to come by striving to reach new goals to better our community.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation for their tremendous accomplishments, milestones, and service to the Greater Kansas City area. Their enthusiasm for sports and recreation, mission in enhancing the quality of life and opportunities of all residents, and commitment to service is a model for all. I speak with the voice of Missouri's entire Fifth Congressional District as we say a heartfelt ``thank you'' to the KC Sports Commission and Foundation as we celebrate and congratulate them on all their current achievements and those to come.
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