[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 197 (Tuesday, December 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     BREATHITT COUNTY STATE CHAMPS

                                 ______


                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 12, 1995

  Mr. ROGERS. Mr. Speaker, last week, many high schools around the 
Nation won high school State football championships. But, none were 
more exciting than Breathitt County, KY's 42-35, 2OT victory over 
Franklin-Simpson in the Kentucky 2A State football championship.
  The Bobcats, whose program is one of the strongest in the State, won 
their first State championship ever while fishing the first undefeated 
season--15-0--in the school's long history.
  And they won it in thrilling, heart-quickening style.
  Trailing by as many as 14 points, the determined Bobcats, led by 
quarterback Waylon Chapman, stormed back several times, climaxed by a 
90-yard drive which tied the score in the game's final minutes.
  After matching scores in the first overtime, the Bobcats faced a 
fourth down play from the 16 yard line. After a scramble, Chapman's 
pass fell into the hands of a sliding Phillip Watts in the corner of 
the end zone.
  After a short gasp, the covering official signaled touchdown sending 
the Bobcats and their faithful into a frenzy.
  But, it wasn't over. Franklin-Simpson had one more chance to win.
  After two plays, the stiff Bobcat defense forced a fumble and 
recovered it to clinch the victory. and, then the real celebrating 
began.
  Stunned and emotionally drained, Coach Mike Holcomb captured his 
team's thoughts best. ``It's a great feeling for this community,'' he 
said. ``They poured their hearts out for this team.''
  Yes, it is wonderful for this great community, but it is even a 
bigger accomplishment for the fine young athletes at Breathitt County 
High School. They never quit. Their determination, commitment and 
perseverance is something everyone in this country can respect with 
pride.
  Coach Vince Lombardi, in his immortal speech, ``What It Takes To Be 
Number One,'' said, ``I firmly believe that man's finest hour--his 
greatest fulfillment--is that moment when he was worked his heart out 
and he's exhausted on the field of battle--Victorious.''
  The Bobcats have been to the top of the mountain, and as ABC's Keith 
Jackson would say, ``Oh Nellie,'' are we proud.

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