House Concurrent Resolution 97

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING WILL OVERSTREET ON HIS OUTSTANDING FOOTBALL PLAY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE.

WHEREAS, in 1998, Will Overstreet, a native of Jackson, Mississippi, and graduate of Jackson Preparatory School, began his collegiate football career at the University of Tennessee, by establishing himself as a solid player on the Volunteer's defensive line; and

WHEREAS, through hard work and determination, Will earned the respect of his coaches and gained a starting position in 1999, where he continued his dominance over offensive lines throughout the Southeastern Conference; and

WHEREAS, in his junior season, Will was named to the All-Southeastern Conference Team, an honor which sealed his position as one of the top defensive linemen in the Southeastern Conference as well as the nation; and

WHEREAS, despite a knee injury during the Louisiana State University game in 2001, Will fought to overcome adversity and managed to play the remainder of the season in outstanding fashion, earning him a spot for the second year in a row on the All-Southeastern Conference Team; and

WHEREAS, proven to be competitive in the classroom as well as on the field, Will was named to the Academic All-Southeastern Conference Team three straight years and also earned a spot on the Verizon All-Academic District IV Team and in 2001, on the Verizon Academic All-American Team; and

WHEREAS, although playing across state lines, Will Overstreet brings much pride to his native state and will always be considered as one of Mississippi's finest; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize unique and talented individuals, such as Will Overstreet, whose work ethic and devotion serves as an outstanding model for all Mississippians:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate William Sparkman Overstreet on his successful football career at the University of Tennessee and extend to him our heartiest wishes for continued success in all his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Will Overstreet, the University of Tennessee, and the Capitol Press Corps.