House Resolution 32

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE SIMPSON COUNTY ACADEMY COUGARS FOOTBALL TEAM FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING 2003 SEASON AND FOR WINNING THE AA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Simpson County Academy Football Team finished the 2003 season with an exceptional record of 13 wins and no losses; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season the Cougars participated in playoffs, which included victories as the AA South State Champions and the AA State Champions; and

WHEREAS, the Cougars have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Billy Hankins and Assistant Coaches David Holbrook, Tim Ellison, Neil Bartling, Shey Patterson and Keith Zimmerman, who have broadened the Bulldogs' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Coach Hankins has brought additional honor to himself and to Simpson County Academy by being selected as AA Coach of the Year by the Mississippi Private Association and served as All-Star Coach; and

WHEREAS, several of the Cougars have been recognized for their fine, dedicated and superior play this season, including the naming of Ken Garner, Neil Lewis and Jack Hayes as All-State Players; and

WHEREAS, Ken Garner, Neil Lewis, Jack Hayes, Preston Harris, Justin Duckworth, Brian Little, Shannon Steed, Justin Sanford, Justin Blair, Alan Buffington and Aarron Sullivan were also recognized for their outstanding skills in football and were selected as All-District Team Members; and

WHEREAS, the Simpson County Academy Cougars, which had six shutouts this season, 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 Simpson County Academy; 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, That we commend and congratulate the Simpson County Academy Cougars Football Team and their coaches, Head Coach Billy Hankins and Assistant Coaches David Holbrook, Tim Ellison, Neil Bartling, Shey Patterson and Keith Zimmerman, for their outstanding 2003 season, for winning the AA State Championship and for displaying tireless devotion to their athletic endeavors.

BE IF FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Simpson County Academy, Head Coach Billy Hankins and Assistant Coaches David Holbrook, Tim Ellison, Neil Bartling, Shey Patterson and Keith Zimmerman and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.