Kingman City Council presents proclamation, key to pitcher Tarek Skubal; honoree pledges $10,000 to Little League

The Kingman City Council on Dec. 17 presented a proclamation and a symbolic key to the city to local pitcher Tarek Skubal in recognition of his 2024 American League Cy Young Award, and Skubal announced a $10,000 donation to Kingman Little League.

Mayor Ken Watkins opened the special meeting at the Mohave County Board of Supervisors Auditorium and read a city proclamation recognizing Skubal’s career and 2024 season. The proclamation cited Skubal’s roots at Kingman Academy of Learning, his college career at Seattle University, his selection by the Detroit Tigers and season statistics, noting he finished 2024 with 18 wins, a 2.39 ERA and 228 strikeouts. The proclamation also states that Skubal’s Cy Young selection was unanimous.

"Now therefore, I, Ken Watkins, mayor, city of Kingman, do hereby recognize Tarek Skubal as a shining star in our community, and do hereby present him with the key to the city as a token of his accomplishments," the mayor read as part of the proclamation.

Council members took turns congratulating Skubal. The vice mayor (unnamed in the transcript) and Councilor Savage praised Skubal as a role model for young athletes. Council member Keith Walker led the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the event and later offered brief remarks.

Skubal addressed the audience and thanked his hometown and supporters. "Thank you to everyone that showed up. It means a lot," he said, adding that he wants more young people in Kingman to have opportunities in sports. Skubal then announced a $10,000 gift to Kingman Little League: "On behalf of myself and my family, I'd like to present a check, for $10,000 to the Kingman Little League." The council invited the Little League president forward to accept the gift.

Laura, identified in the program as Skubal’s mother, thanked the community and reflected on the role of teachers and coaches in his development, urging families to support youth activities.

The ceremony included a short video tribute featuring multiple speakers and highlights of Skubal’s pitching; the council presented a plaque and the key to the city before adjourning the special meeting. The City noted that the regular council meeting would be held later in the council chambers.

No formal votes, motions, ordinances or policy actions were taken during the special ceremonial meeting.