KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The reigning American Association champion Kansas City Monarchs begin their home schedule Thursday night at Legends Field in Kansas City, Kansas.
This year's team is wearing a patch on its jersey to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Monarchs winning their first Negro League World Series.
FOX4 caught up with several influential people who will be celebrating this milestone while raising money for local charities.
“This is so much fun. And who would have thought we'd be here right now celebrating the 2022 championship? Preparing for the next championship,” Monarchs owner said. , Mark Brandmeier said.
It's a good time for the monarchy. It's just like any other sports scene in Kansas City.
“It's contagious, isn't it? We're spoiled here in the Chiefs kingdom. It's something we see from every organization, whether it's women's soccer or not. Monarchs as well. The resurgence of that organization is also great to be a part of. So why not just keep winning?'' said former Chiefs wide receiver Danan Hughes.
“I think it's really great because we can lift each other up and we're all doing what we love in a city that we love. So being able to have each other and support each other is something that everyone wants to be able to do. It’s something you dream about,” said KC Current midfielder Claire Hutton.
But many people, young and old, recognize, or are beginning to recognize, that monarchs paved the way.
“A lot of the players who played baseball here were still here, Satchel Paige, I got to meet him. And this is what it was all about when I came here in 1963.” said Pro Football Hall of Famer Bobby Bell. “So look at the monarchs, what are they doing? They win every year!”
“There was a time when we weren't allowed to play in the major leagues, so this was the only place we were given a chance. As an African-American quarterback, it was really It touches my heart. It was a tough time coming into the National Football League,” said Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Moon.
So on this Greater Kansas City Day, we're gathering people's voices near where the Monarchs won 100 years ago to remind us what their name means and what their victory means to the city. I'll give it to you.
“It meant so much to so many people who were disenfranchised at the time, so it's really great to have the Monarchs name back in our city and to bring that name back into our world. It's good to see him back,'' the Emmy-winning actor said. Eric Stonestreet.
