Rebuilding after Loss: The Story of Jackie Robinson Statue in Wichita, Kansas

In Wichita, Kansas, the community of League 42 faced a devastating blow earlier this year when their beloved Jackie Robinson statue was stolen and vandalized. However, on Monday evening, the organizers unveiled a new statue, signifying resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by approximately 300 people, including former MLB players and representatives from the MLB itself. The presence of such a diverse group of individuals showcased the community’s unity and determination to restore what was lost.

The statue, which stands in McAdams Park where League 42 plays its games, holds special significance for the players, particularly the Black and Latino players who make up two-thirds of the league. For 8-year-old Marcus Jones, Jackie Robinson serves as a source of inspiration and motivation.

The road to rebuilding was not without its challenges, as the perpetrator of the theft, Ricky Alderete, was eventually caught and sentenced to 15 years in prison. Despite the closure brought by the arrest, questions remain about Alderete’s motivations and remorse for his actions.

The new statue was recreated using the original mold created by John Parsons, the sculptor of the original statue who tragically passed away in 2022. Art Castings of Colorado used Parsons‘ mold to meticulously recreate the statue, ensuring that the legacy of Jackie Robinson lives on in Wichita.

As the community of League 42 moves forward from this ordeal, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and unity. The unveiling of the new statue symbolizes not only the restoration of what was lost but also the resilience and strength of the community in the face of adversity.

The story of the Jackie Robinson statue in Wichita, Kansas is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and unity. Despite facing a devastating loss, the community of League 42 came together to rebuild and restore what was taken from them. The unveiling of the new statue serves as a reminder of the legacy of Jackie Robinson and the values he stood for, continuing to inspire and uplift all those who come into contact with it.