Senate Resolution 2

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE 2025 JACKSON ACADEMY RAIDER FOOTBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH DAVID DUGGAN FOR WINNING THE MAIS 4A DIVISION 1 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, in a decisive victory, the Jackson Academy Raider Football Team converted a championship mentality into a championship reality on November 22, defeating Hartfield Academy 50-14 at Mississippi College's Robinson-Hale Stadium; and

WHEREAS, the victory secured the program's tenth state title and capped an 11-1 season under second-year Head Coach David Duggan; and

WHEREAS, the Raiders' ground game overwhelmed Hartfield throughout the night. Junior running back Aaric Beasley rushed for over 140 yards and scored three times. Josef Walker added three rushing touchdowns while also passing for over 100 yards. The offensive line created consistent opportunities for the running backs, accumulating nearly 300 yards on the ground as a team; and

WHEREAS, defensively, Jackson Academy limited Hartfield's offensive production significantly, with the Raiders holding a substantial yardage advantage. Adam Alexander and Carter Mathison each led the defense with 11 tackles against Hartfield, which had won the previous two state championships; and

WHEREAS, Jackson Academy fell behind early but responded quickly to tie the game in the first quarter. The Raiders then pulled away with three scores before halftime to take a 23-7 lead. The second half saw Jackson Academy continue to build on its advantage, adding four more touchdowns to complete the comprehensive victory. Hartfield managed just one second-half score as the Raiders' defense maintained control; and

WHEREAS, Coach Duggan's leadership in his two seasons at JA has brought a championship culture to the program. The Raiders' dominant performance has showcased the team's commitment, preparation, and unity throughout the 2025 season; and

WHEREAS, the 2025 Jackson Academy Varsity Football Roster: O'mari Johnson, Baird Kennedy, Vaiden Taylor, Josef Walker, Jaydann Hollins, Aaric Beasley, Braelyn Morgan, Gabe Barnett, Braylan Short, Pruet James, Conner Hillman, Fletcher Cox, Peyton Smith, TJ White, Mari Jackson, Carter Mathison, River Hogue, Ashton Blackmon, Austin Clark, Liam Spratlin, Jaden Walker, Kingston Mays, McNeil Meacham, Adam Alexander, Yates Elfert, Will White, Kirkland Hudson, Jaiden Hulbert, Brandon Parker, Randy Cooper, Perry Allen, Roderic Rhodes, Jack Seward, Perry James, Chase Clanton, James Ogden, Massey Rodden, Stone Haraway, Joseph New, Rett Robinson, Steven Hederman, Mason Howard, Kaden Young, Barron Mosal, Gus Summers, Clay Chustz, Drew Edwards, Dereon Albert, AJ Williams, Urban Herbert, PJ Evans, Reid Miller, Grant Taylor, Drew Gay, Morris Griner, Reggie Harper, Caden Moss, Andrew Clark, Luke New, Henry Bennett, Aiden Franklin, and Lamdin Young; and

WHEREAS, this tenth state title in school history was not just about the players on the field, it was about every person in the stands, every spirit leader and band member on the sidelines, every parent cheering, every alum who came home, and every friend who showed up. They celebrated together because they are all a part of Raider Nation; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize these student-athletes who have brought honor to their school, their community and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the 2025 Jackson Academy Raider Football Team and Head Coach David Duggan for winning the MAIS 4A Division 1 State Championship, and extend to the team, coaches, parents and sponsors our best wishes for continued state championships.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Head Coach David Duggan for the team, forwarded to Jackson Academy Head of School Eddie Wettach and the Jackson Academy Board of Trustees and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.