House Resolution 113

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HERITAGE ACADEMY PATRIOTS BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH RUSS WHITESIDE FOR WINNING THE 2019 MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS CLASS 3A STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP AND THE OVERALL BOYS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Heritage Academy Patriots Boys Basketball Team reigned supreme against Canton Academy to win their second consecutive Mississippi Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) Class 3A State Basketball Championship, and overwhelmed Hillcrest Christian School to capture their first ever MAIS Overall Boys Basketball Tournament Championship; and

WHEREAS, throughout the state tournament games, the Patriots 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 sounded, as they outlasted, outplayed and ultimately overpowered each of their opponents; and

WHEREAS, to claim these illustrious victories, the Patriots relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic defensive moves to outmaneuver each opponent, which ultimately allowed them to bring the coveted State Championship trophy back to Heritage Academy and then go on to win the Overall Championship; and

WHEREAS, the team's statistics were impressive, and there were outstanding goals, free throws, rebounds and assists by individual players, and the key to this team's consistent success has been the constant team atmosphere and year-round hard work; and

WHEREAS, the Patriots have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Russ Whiteside, 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 Whiteside 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, including 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 Heritage Academy Patriots Boys Basketball Team, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes and Head Coach Russ Whiteside, who have brought honor to their school, their community and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Heritage Academy Patriots Boys Basketball Team and Head Coach Russ Whiteside upon winning their second consecutive Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class 3A State Basketball Championship and their first MAIS Overall Boys Basketball Tournament Championship, and extend best wishes for continued success in all of their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Head Coach Russ Whiteside and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.