House Resolution 88

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE 2025-2026 NESHOBA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY CHEER TEAM ON THEIR UNDEFEATED COMPETITION SEASON AND FOR WINNING THE NATIONAL CHEERLEADERS ASSOCIATION (NCA) HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN THE ADVANCED NON-TUMBLING GAME PERFORMANCE DIVISION.

WHEREAS, the 2025-2026 Neshoba Central High School Varsity Cheer Team achieved great success in the Advanced Non-Tumbling Game Performance division at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) High School National Championship, ending the year with an undefeated competition season; and

WHEREAS, after claiming victory at the NCA Regional Competition, the Neshoba Central Rockets gave an incomparable performance at the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) State Championship in the 5A-7A Non-Tumbling Performance division, bringing home the program's first state title in 11 years; and

WHEREAS, this year's team knew they had big shoes to fill heading into the NCA High School Nationals after Neshoba Cheer's first national championship win last season, but these dedicated student-athletes put in hours of practice in the gym, unwavering in their goal to secure back-to-back championship titles and accepting the challenge with grit and determination from day one; and

WHEREAS, the Rockets traveled to Fort Worth, Texas, prepared to compete in the advanced division of the national competition with elite-level stunts and pyramids, jumps, dance and a crowd-leading cheer all packed into a two-minute and thirty-second routine; and

WHEREAS, sporting the signature Neshoba Central red, blue and white, the Rockets showcased their school pride, exemplary skill and exceptional athleticism on the mat, flawlessly hitting each step of their routine and outperforming the competition with a final score of 89.0333; and

WHEREAS, the team's ascent to the pinnacle of cheerleading excellence has been made manifest through the amazing team spirit, discipline and remarkable talent of its members: Presley Byrd, Alysa Ferguson, Miley Fulton, Haley Gipson, Dixie Hines, Sadie Martin, Bailey McAdory, Halli Smith, Laney Burrage, Macie Rae Parker, Laney Griffis, Kaylin Jones, Alexis Atwood, Rileigh Smith, Blakely Blackburn, Jenny Kate Copeland, Makinley Cole, Lauren Boler and Mady Quinn Morrow; and

WHEREAS, the cheer program at Neshoba Central High School exemplifies the highest standards of high school athletics, and this stellar achievement by the Neshoba Central Varsity Cheer Team is a testament to the commitment and support of the team's families, the Neshoba County School District, and the entire community of Philadelphia, Mississippi, whose encouragement, belief and investment in these young women have been invaluable; and

WHEREAS, this dynamic team has been superbly coached and inspired by Coach Nikki Morrow and Choreographer Austin McNair, who have broadened the squad's knowledge of the sport and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, the members of this team will surely carry the unforgettable memories they have made, as well as the lessons of teamwork, dedication and perseverance they have learned, throughout their lives as they remember the feeling of greatness that accompanies being a champion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend outstanding Mississippi student-athletes, especially those such as the Neshoba Central Varsity Cheer Team, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this incredible team, who have brought honor and pride to their school, their community and 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 2025-2026 Neshoba Central High School Varsity Cheer Team upon winning the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) High School National Championship, and extend best wishes to the team for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Neshoba Central Varsity Cheer Team and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.