House Resolution 119

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE 2022-2023 SIMPSON ACADEMY LADY COUGARS BASKETBALL TEAM UPON THEIR OUTSTANDING SEASON.

WHEREAS, with an overall 31-6 season, the Simpson Academy Lady Cougars Basketball Team's mental stamina and athletic prowess never wavered from the moment they first hustled onto the court until the final buzzer buzzed, as they outlasted, and ultimately outplayed many of their opponents, some of which include: Leake Academy (48-36) on February 4, 2023, winning the MAIS (Midsouth Association of Independent Schools) 5A District 2 Championship; Starkville Academy (54-41) on February 8, 2023; Heritage Academy in Columbus, Mississippi, (40-37) on February 10, 2023; Pillow Academy in Greenwood, Mississippi, (49-33) on February 11, 2023; and Bowling Green in Franklinton, Louisiana, (67-48) on February 15, 2023; and

WHEREAS, for each game, the Lady Cougars relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic moves, which ultimately allowed them to dominate the basketball court; and

WHEREAS, the 2022-2023 Lady Cougars team is comprised of the following extraordinary student-athletes: Carson Carter, Ava Korba, Karlee Holbrook, Maddie Craft, Annalea Bryant, Ava Dunn, Olivia Hodum, Maggie Shivers, Lauren Brown, Danni Cooper, Jayda Smith, Olivia Banes, Brooke Blackledge, Payton Purvis and Kylin Chisholm; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Cougars have been superbly coached and tremendously inspired by Head Coach Linda Barlow Dear, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Coach Dear continues to build upon the legacy of superior play and true sportsmanship forged by the tenacious and undaunted spirit of each team member, as evidenced in her ability to produce high caliber players and plays, and by the team's successful season; and

WHEREAS, the members of this team will surely carry the unforgettable memories they made along the way, whether it be the long hours of grueling practices, or the lessons of hard work, dedication and perseverance learned during this amazing season, throughout their lives as they are constantly flooded with the feeling of greatness that accompanies being an exceptional student-athlete; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially that displayed by the Lady Cougars, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes, and Coach Dear, who have brought honor to Simpson Academy and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Simpson Academy Lady Cougars Basketball Team and Head Coach Linda Barlow Dear upon the team's outstanding season, and extend best wishes for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Head Coach Linda Barlow Dear and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.