There’s a new kid on the block!
21-year-old Jeremiah Paprocki is a Chicago native and lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. His mother, Barbara, actually worked as a parking attendant for Cubs games during the 90s. Now, he is making history as the first Black person to hold the title in the organization’s history, the MLB reports.
Paprocki graduated from Chicago International Charter School Northtown Academy before attending college at the University of Illinois Chicago. During his tenure in school, he began his career as an announcer, overseeing PA duties for the school’s sports teams. Now, the Cubs have brought him on to serve as PA announcer.
The new voice of Wrigley Field!!! https://t.co/ZcVZ7bRH9p
advertisement— Jeremiah Paprocki (@jtheannouncer) May 17, 2021
“Who’s ever heard of a 21-year-old PA announcer? That truly means the world that the Chicago Cubs, my hometown team, the team that I love, is taking a chance on me. To be able to sit in that chair behind the microphone at Wrigley Field of all places, it’s truly an honor. I’m looking forward to that opportunity,” Paprocki told reporters.
The college senior recently made his debut behind the mic, a surreal moment that he hopes inspires other Black youth looking to get into the broadcasting field.
“Being the first African-American PA in Cubs history, it definitely means a lot. I hope that it inspires other African-American boys and girls out there that are interested in broadcasting… [to understand that] opportunities are available to you if you keep going, and to never stop and to never let anything discourage you from pursuing opportunities,” Paprocki said.
Congratulations, Jeremiah!
Photo Courtesy of Bleed Cubbie Blue