[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 92 (Thursday, June 26, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1331]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE WEST SPRINGFIELD LADY SPARTANS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. THOMAS M. DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 26, 1997

  Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a group of 
young women who have achieved great feats, not only on the basketball 
court, but also in the community. I am speaking of the Virginia State 
High School Basketball Champions, the West Springfield Lady Spartans.
  Their success on the basketball court speaks for itself. In addition 
to winning the State title they were ranked No. 1 in the Washington 
metropolitan area by the Washington Post and No. 9 in the Nation by the 
USA Today for the past season. However, it is their endeavors off the 
court that have made them true champions.
  Not only did these ladies manage to maintain a 3.5 GPA as a team, 
they found time between studying and practicing to become active in 
community service. Each Saturday after practice the team would 
participate in the Special Olympic program, where they would teach 
mentally and physically challenged students the game of basketball. In 
March they organized a free basketball clinic for young girls between 
the ages of 5 and 16 that attracted over 100 participants. During the 
Christmas season the team embodied the spirit of the season by 
assisting in a charity program which provided toys and clothes to needy 
children.
  I am proud to recognize the Lady Spartans not only for their 
excellence in basketball, but for graciously donating their talents and 
energies to benefit others in the Springfield community. The example 
they have set in the classroom, on the court, and in the community is 
one that should be emulated by those who follow them.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join me today in honoring 
these fine young student-athletes.

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