House Resolution 150

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE MADISON-RIDGELAND ACADEMY LADY PATRIOTS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE 2023 MAIS OVERALL BASKETBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Madison-Ridgeland Academy (MRA) Lady Patriots Basketball Team reigned victorious and claimed the 2023 Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) Overall Basketball State Championship, a truly outstanding achievement; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Patriots took down Presbyterian Christian School in the 6A state finals, and defeated them once again in the overall finals, with a score of 42-29; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Patriots (31-7) have been superbly coached and tremendously inspired by Head Coach Steven Force, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution, and this championship win is his third overall state title in his 21 years as head coach at MRA; and

WHEREAS, Coach Force 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 surely carry the unforgettable memories they made along the way, whether it be the long hours of grueling practices, or the lessons of hard work, dedication and perseverance learned during this amazing season, throughout their lives as they remember 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 Lady Patriots, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes, who have brought honor to Madison-Ridgeland Academy 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 Madison-Ridgeland Academy Lady Patriots Basketball Team, and Head Coach Steven Force for winning the 2023 Midsouth Association of Independent Schools Overall Basketball State Championship, and extend best wishes for continued success in all their future endeavors.

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