House Resolution 61

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE 2017-2018 COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL FALCONS BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH ANTHONY CARLYLE UPON WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION CLASS 6A STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP AND EXTENDING BEST WISHES TO THE TEAM AND COACHES FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS IN ALL OF THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

WHEREAS, the Columbus High School Falcons Boys Basketball Team reigned supreme after finishing the 2017-2018 season with an impressive record of 27 wins and 6 losses, and capturing the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 6A State Basketball Championship, their second in three seasons; and

WHEREAS, throughout the state tournament games at the Mississippi Coliseum, the Falcons played with clear eyes, full hearts and unimaginable amounts of strength, and in each game, their mental stamina and athletic prowess never wavered from the moment they first hustled onto the court until the final buzzer buzzed, as they outlasted, outplayed and ultimately overpowered each of their opponents; and

WHEREAS, to claim this illustrious victory, the Falcons relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic defensive moves to stop the Meridian offense and outmaneuver their defense, which ultimately allowed them to bring the coveted "Gold Ball" Trophy back to Columbus High School; and

WHEREAS, after the championship game started a little slow, senior Robert Woodard II, a vocal leader on and off the court, gave an inspiring pep talk to fellow senior Denijay Harris, encouraging him to take the game into his hands and let the light of his athletic abilities guide the team to victory; and

WHEREAS, Denijay clearly listened to his friend and teammate, as he shot a 27-foot 3-pointer as the third quarter ended that really shifted the momentum, and by the time Meridian caught their breath, the Falcons had already swooped up the championship trophy after a 47-37 victory and headed back east; and

WHEREAS, Denijay Harris had 26 points, eight rebounds and two blocked shots, while Robert Woodard II, who is the Gatorade Player of the Year for the State of Mississippi and a Mississippi State University signee, had 12 points and 13 rebounds; and

WHEREAS, the 2017-2018 MHSAA Class 6A Boys Basketball State Championship Team is comprised of only talented athletes, and while the team statistics were impressive, and there were outstanding free throws, field goals, rebounds and assists by individual players, the key to this team's consistent success has been the constant team atmosphere and year-round hard work; and WHEREAS, the Columbus High School Falcons Boys Basketball Team has been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Anthony Carlyle, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game, refined their skills in execution, and helped each player realize his fullest potential both on and off the court; and

WHEREAS, Coach Carlyle 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 plays and by the team's successful season; and

WHEREAS, the members of this team will carry the unforgettable memories they made along their way to championship status, whether it be the long hours in the weight room or the grueling practices, as well as the lessons of hard work, dedication and perseverance learned during this amazing season, throughout their lives as they are constantly flooded with the feeling of greatness that accompanies being a champion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially that displayed by the Columbus High School Falcons Boys Basketball Team, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student athletes and Head Coach Anthony Carlyle, who have brought honor to their school, their community and to their state:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the 2017-2018 Columbus High School Falcons Boys Basketball Team and Head Coach Anthony Carlyle upon winning the 2017-2018 Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 6A State Basketball Championship, and extend best wishes to the team and coaches for continued success in all of their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Columbus High School, Head Coach Anthony Carlyle and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.