MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) Ferris

A RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE 1998-1999 VICKSBURG HIGH SCHOOL "MISSY GATORS" GIRLS SOCCER TEAM FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING SEASON AND FOR WINNING THEIR SECOND STRAIGHT STATE TITLE.

WHEREAS, the 1998-1999 Vicksburg High School "Missy Gators" Girls Soccer Team has again reached the penthouse of Mississippi prep soccer by beating Oak Grove 3-2 to win their second straight Girls State Soccer Championship; and

WHEREAS, the "Missy Gators" Soccer Team has a 15-1 playoff record and has played in all four title games after winning the inaugural state championship, and there is already talk of winning a fourth title next year; and

WHEREAS, Vicksburg had an exceptional season, finishing the year at 19-2 after early losses, and was ranked No. 1 in the poll; and

WHEREAS, the team was greatly assisted by "Parade" All-American Kristin Chapman, whose combination of talent, speed and savvy along with her 31 goals will be missed next year when Kristin will play for defending national champion Florida; and

WHEREAS, the "Missy Gators" were well and ably coached by Head Coach Kevin Manton, who, along with Athletic Director John White and School Principal Kermit Harness, were an essential part of the team's success; and

WHEREAS, Principal Kermit Harness was named Vicksburg-Warren Schools 1998-1999 Administrator of the Year, and under his leadership the school was awarded the United States Department of Education "Top School," and the former teacher's awards include: "Star Teacher," Outstanding Band Master, Educator of the Year, United Way Community Service Award, Outstanding Service Award and Outstanding Contribution to International Education and Understanding; and

WHEREAS, the following were the team's seven graduating seniors:

NAME POSITION

Marcy Tanner Fullback/Halfback

Erin Baylot Halfback/Forward

Megan Tubman Fullback/Halfback

Angela Opoka Fullback

Chealcey Wilson Forward/Halfback

Erin Brock Halfback/Forward

Kristin Chapman Halfback/Forward; and

WHEREAS, the Legislature is proud to recognize the achievements of this student athlete team which has set the standard for championship soccer in Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby congratulate the 1998-1999 Vicksburg High School "Missy Gators" Girls Soccer Team for winning their second straight state championship, their third title in four years, and wish them success in future seasons and endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be presented to Vicksburg High School Principal Kermit Harness and Head Coach Kevin Manton on behalf of the team, and that copies be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.