House Concurrent Resolution 112

(As Adopted by House)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE COLLINS HIGH SCHOOL TIGERS FOOTBALL TEAM FOR ITS OUTSTANDING 2001-2002 SEASON AND FOR WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION (MHSAA) CLASS 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Collins High School Tigers Football Team finished the 2001-2002 season with a remarkable record of 13 wins and only two losses; and

WHEREAS, throughout the regular season and playoffs, the Wildcats fought and defeated many well-contended teams, and captured the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 3A State Championship; and

WHEREAS, the 2001-2002 team for the Collins High Tigers made history by capturing the school's first championship; and

WHEREAS, in addition to winning the state championship game, the Tigers won the Region 6 District championship and the South State championship; and

WHEREAS, many individual honors have been bestowed upon various team members in recognition of their fine, dedicated and superior play and their hard work this season, including the signing of seven players for college scholarships; and

WHEREAS, the Collins High Tigers have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Bruce Merchant and Assistant Coaches Thomas Bender, Adam Thompson and Kevin Jackson, who have broadened the Tigers' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Head Coach Bruce Merchant has brought additional honor to himself and to Collins High by being named M.A.C. State 3A Coach of the Year; and

WHEREAS, the Collins High Tigers have been supported in their athletic endeavors and can attribute much of their success to the many parents, fans and supporters whose moral and spiritual encouragement have remained fervent throughout the season; and

WHEREAS, the Tigers have developed a winning and cooperative spirit and a high degree of sportsmanship, and their activities and attitude reflect great credit upon the individual players and their coaches and bring honor to Collins High; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize and commend excellence, especially when evidenced by the youth of our state, who are its future:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Collins High School Tigers Football Team and their coaches, Head Coach Bruce Merchant, and Assistant Coaches Thomas Bender, Adam Thompson and Kevin Jackson for their phenomenal 2001-2002 season, for winning the MHSAA Class 3A State Championship and for displaying tireless devotion to their athletic endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Collins High School Head Coach Bruce Merchant, Assistant Coaches Thomas Bender, Adam Thompson, Kevin Jackson and members of the Capitol Press Corps.