Senate Resolution No. 1712

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING "Princess Red Star" Theresa Kibby
posthumously upon the occasion of her induction into
the International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
outstanding professionals in the boxing industry who distinguished
themselves through their exceptional performance, attaining
unprecedented success and the highest level of personal achievement;
Theresa Kibby is one such individual and her life of achievements
inspired others and contributed to the respect and admiration of the
sport of boxing; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
"Princess Red Star" Theresa Kibby upon the occasion of her induction
into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum; she will be
honored within the Women's Trailblazer category of boxers at the 35th
Anniversary celebration from June 6-9, 2024, in Canastota, New York; and

WHEREAS, Born Theresa Maxine Buckskin on August 12, 1953, in
Tollhouse, California, "Princess Red Star" began boxing at the age of 10
alongside her older brothers and sisters under the watchful eye of her
father, Dave Kibby Sr.; and

WHEREAS, Theresa Kibby turned pro in 1976 with a third round TKO
over Sue Fox; in her third bout, the welterweight won a hard-fought
battle with Pat Pineda in front of 1200 fans; and

WHEREAS, In 1976, the California State Athletic Commission began
granting licenses to women and Theresa Kibby engaged in a three-fight
series with Diane Syverson (0-1-2); their second meeting was televised
live and has the distinction of being the first female bout contested at
the famed Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles; matches with Gwen Gemini
(1-2-1), Lavonne Ludian (3-0-1), Fox (TKO 3) and Hall of Famer Marian
Trimiar (W 4) followed; and

WHEREAS, Theresa Kibby's last bout was a four-round win over Ludian
in 1977 on the undercard of the nationally televised (CBS) Earnie
Shavers vs. Howard Smith bout, which also featured the pro debut of
Michael Spinks; "Princess Red Star" compiled a professional record of
10-3-4 (3 KOs); and

WHEREAS, Theresa Kibby, who along with her sister Darlene Buckskin,
were the first two Native American women to receive professional boxing
licenses in California; she passed away on September 4, 2021, at the age
of 68; and

WHEREAS, "Princess Red Star" Theresa Kibby clearly contributed to
the spirit of excellence which is a tradition of the International
Boxing Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such outstanding accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor "Princess Red Star" Theresa Kibby upon the occasion of her
induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Theresa Kibby.