House Concurrent Resolution 43

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE WAYNE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL WAR EAGLES FOOTBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE 2015 MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION CLASS 5A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Wayne County High School War Eagles Football Team clinched a dramatic 45-41 victory in an epic battle against the Oxford High School Chargers that had fans on the edge of their seats until the last down was played in legendary Vaught-Hemingway Stadium at the University of Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, the back-and-forth game showcased both teams' powerful offenses, but in the end it was the War Eagles who flexed their muscles in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 unanswered points and putting the game away with a nine-yard pass to defensive tackle Benito Jones, putting on display the team's creativity and willingness to do whatever it takes to win; and

WHEREAS, even when the Chargers tried to mount a comeback in the final seconds of the game, the War Eagles' defense held fast and kept the Chargers' star wide receiver out of the end zone; and

WHEREAS, although there were several standout performances by War Eagles' players, this championship win was a result of teamwork and unselfish play, with every teammate understanding his role and executing it perfectly; and

WHEREAS, the War Eagles have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Todd Mangum, who has broadened the War Eagles' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Coach Mangum continues to build upon the legacy of superior play and true sportsmanship forged by the tenacious and undaunted spirit of each team member, as evidenced in his ability to produce high caliber players and by the team's wildly successful season; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to commend the outstanding student athletes of this state, such as the War Eagles, whose hard work, determination and unyielding resolve bring honor to their parents, school and the State of Mississippi:

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 Wayne County High School War Eagles Football Team for winning the 2015 Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A State Championship and extend best wishes for continued success in all of their future athletic and academic endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Wayne County High School Principal Robert Hathorn, Head Coach Todd Mangum and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.