Chicago Bears Honor Illinois Olympians at Soldier Field
The Chicago Bears honored seven Team USA athletes at Soldier Field, including six Illinois natives who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics. The event celebrated their achievements in sports and highlighted their connection to Illinois. Notable attendees included Olympians like Ryan Held and Simone Biles, who brought pride to their home state.
On Sunday, the Chicago Bears commemorated seven distinguished members of Team USA who participated in the recent 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games during a halftime celebration at Soldier Field. Six of the honorees hail from Illinois, proudly representing both their country and home state across a range of sports. The honored athletes included Ryan Held (Swimming), Lauren Carlini (Volleyball), Evita Griskenas (Rhythmic Gymnastics), Shamier Little (Track & Field), Noelle Malkamaki (Para Track & Field – Shot Put), and Jeff Jendryk (Volleyball), who was unable to attend the event.
Ryan Held garnered accolades as a two-time gold medalist in the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay, securing victories for Team USA in both the 2024 and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. Lauren Carlini contributed significantly as a setter for the women’s volleyball team, aiding them in achieving a silver medal this summer. Jeff Jendryk, a middle blocker, was part of the men’s volleyball team that earned a bronze medal.
Evita Griskenas demonstrated her prowess in rhythmic gymnastics representing the USA in both the Paris and Tokyo Olympic Games. Shamier Little, also an accomplished athlete, earned two Olympic gold medals in the 4x400m women’s relay and the mixed relay at Paris, while Noelle Malkamaki triumphed by winning gold in Shot Put F46.
Professor Little, who grew up in Chicago’s South Side, expressed her sentiments stating, “This means a lot. It is just putting more recognition to my face — getting to see my city, being in another atmosphere with another sport. It just feels really good. … We’re really in an elite club. We’re Olympians and then were Illinoisans, so it just makes it that much more special to celebrate together.”
Additionally, renowned gymnast Simone Biles, who holds the record for the most Olympic medals in history, was honored alongside the Illinois athletes. Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist, secured four medals at the Paris Olympics, including gold medals in the all-around, vault, and team categories. She was present to support her husband, Bears safety Jonathan Owens, who played against the Lions and celebrated his game contributions with a salute in the end zone to honor Biles.
The Chicago Bears hosted a halftime event at Soldier Field to recognize Illinois-native Olympians who excelled at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. This event highlights the pride and achievements of these athletes both in their respective sports and as representatives of the state of Illinois. The gathering served to celebrate their accomplishments and the recognition they bring to their community.
In conclusion, the Chicago Bears effectively honored seven remarkable athletes from Team USA, particularly those with Illinois roots, for their outstanding performances at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. The celebration underscored the shared pride among these athletes and their connections to their home state. Furthermore, Simone Biles’ presence reinforced the significance of the event, showcasing the bonds between sports and community.
Original Source: www.chicagobears.com
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