Senate Concurrent Resolution 561

(As Adopted by Senate and House)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE WAYNE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL WAR EAGLES FOOTBALL TEAM FOR ITS OUTSTANDING 2002-2003 SEASON AND FOR WINNING THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Wayne County High School "War Eagles" Football Team capped a 14-1 season a school record for wins with a 21-14 victory over previously undefeated and then No. 1 South Panola for their first 5A State Championship; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season, the War Eagles participated in several playoffs, which included victories as the 5A District Champions, 5A South State Champions and 5A State Champions and were ranked No. 1 in The Clarion-Ledger poll and ranked No. 1 in the A.P. poll; and

WHEREAS, the War Eagles were superbly coached and inspired by Coach Marcus Boyles; Defensive Coordinator, Todd Mangum; and Assistant Coaches, Tim Blackwell, Marvin Chapman, Joey Culotta, Mike Gavin, Kelly Murphy, Will Mason and Steve Womack; who have broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Coach Marcus Boyles has brought additional honor to himself and to Wayne County High School by being selected as Coach of the Year by The Clarion-Ledger; and

WHEREAS, several of the War Eagles have been recognized for their hard work, dedication and superior playing this season including the naming of Akeem Lofton and Steve Gandy as All-State Players, and the selection of Marzell McGill, Cedric Jones, Akeem Lofton and Steve Gandy as WDAM All-Area Team Members; and

WHEREAS, the Wayne County High School War Eagles have developed a winning and cooperative spirit and a superb degree of sportsmanship, and their activities and attitude reflect great credit upon the individual players and their coaches and bring great honor to Wayne County High School; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize the unique accomplishment of this group of 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, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Wayne County High School "War Eagles" Football Team and Coach Marcus Boyles for their outstanding 2002-2003 season, for winning the 5A State Championship and for displaying tireless devotion to their athletic endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be presented to Wayne County High School, Coach Marcus Boyles and be made available to members of the Capitol Press Corps.