House Resolution 102

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE MADISON RIDGELAND ACADEMY LADY PATRIOTS GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM UPON WINNING THE 2026 MIDSOUTH ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (MAIS) STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Madison Ridgeland Academy Lady Patriots Girls Basketball Team reigned supreme against Simpson Academy with a score of 37-25, capturing the 2026 Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) State Basketball Championship; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season, the Lady Patriots played with clear eyes, full hearts and unimaginable amounts of fortitude, and during the state championship 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 Simpson Academy; and

WHEREAS, during the championship game, the Lady Patriots relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic defensive moves to stop the opposing offense and outmaneuver their defense, which allowed them to bring the coveted gold ball trophy to the Lady Patriots' trophy case; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Patriots finished the season with a 33-5 record, along with a MAIS 4A Division II State Championship and MAIS Overall State Championship; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Patriots have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Stephen Force, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution, and he continues to build upon the legacy of superior play and true sportsmanship forged by the tenacious and undaunted spirit of each team member; 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 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 Girls Basketball Team upon winning the 2026 Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) State Basketball Championship, and extend best wishes to the team and coaches for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Madison Ridgeland Academy Lady Patriots Girls Basketball Team and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.