House Resolution 138

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE JACKSON ACADEMY "RAIDERS" BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE MIDSOUTH ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS CLASS 6A BASKETBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Jackson Academy "Raiders" Boys Basketball Team reigned victorious against Jackson Prep at the Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) Class 6A Boys Basketball State Championship, a truly outstanding achievement; and

WHEREAS, the Raiders finished up this season with an impressive record of 36-1, and 10-0 in conference play, and during the championship, the 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 Jackson Prep, 54-53; and

WHEREAS, to claim this illustrious victory, the Raiders relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic moves, which ultimately allowed them to bring the coveted championship title home to Jackson Academy; and

WHEREAS, in addition to winning the MAIS 6A State Championship, the Raiders also claimed the MAIS Overall Championship by defeating Madison Ridgeland Academy, the team's fifth Overall Championship in school history; and

WHEREAS, the Raiders are comprised of the following talented student-athletes: D.J. Washington, Mike Williams, C.J. Banks, Caleb Gaitor, Fisher Waldrop, T.J. White, Marcus Goodloe, Schyler Chambers, Caleb Levy, Brister Robertson, Mason Williams, Kendell Davis, Carter Mathison, Josh Brown, Tyler Lyles, Parker Halford, Crew Hassell, Preston Taylor, Riley Edwards and Caden Moss; and

WHEREAS, the Raiders have been superbly coached and tremendously inspired by Head Coach Jesse Taylor and Assistant Coaches Andre Stringer and Danny Robertson, who have broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Head Coach Taylor, Assistant Coaches Stringer and Robertson, and Athletic Director Brandt Walker continue 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 their 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 their way to championship status, whether it be the long hours of grueling practices, as well as 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 a champion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially that displayed by the Raiders, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes who have brought honor to Jackson 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 recognize and commend the Jackson Academy "Raiders" Boys Basketball Team for winning the MAIS Class 6A Boys Basketball State Championship, and extend best wishes for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Jackson Academy "Raiders" Boys Basketball Team, Head Coach Jesse Taylor, and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.