[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 29 (Tuesday, March 17, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E385-E386]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING ALEXANDRIA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM ON WINNING THE 4A STATE 
                              CHAMPIONSHIP

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. BOB RILEY

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 17, 1998

  Mr. RILEY. Mr. Speaker, Paul ``Bear'' Bryant, the legendary football 
coach at the University of Alabama, used a now famous quote to inspire 
his football team. ``If you believe in yourself and have dedication and 
pride--and never quit, you'll be a winner. The price of victory is high 
but so are the rewards.'' Well, the Alexandria High School Football 
Team of Alexandria, Alabama took Coach Bryant's words to heart as they 
worked, practiced, and sacrificed throughout their season to be the 
best that they could be. It was this dedication and desire that enabled 
the Alexandria High School Football team to win the 4A State 
Championship on December 12, 1997.
  While their victory deserves to be recognized, what is more 
impressive is that this victory marked their second state football 
title in three years. In addition, this team ended their season with an 
impressive 13-1 record.
  Over the course of the season, Mr. Speaker, the 51 players of this 
team bonded into a well-knit family, creating a strong following not 
only within the high school itself, but also throughout the small town 
of Alexandria. In fact, this team was such an inspiration to the 
community that well wishers converged on the stadium as early as 3:00 
p.m. (nearly four hours before the kickoff) just to find seats. Such 
loyal fans are normally found only on college campuses, and I believe 
that through such a strong following, the players and

[[Page E386]]

coaches were all that more determined to bring home the title.
  Mr. Speaker, I would ask that my colleagues join me in thanking the 
parents, teachers, students and others who have followed this team and 
offered their support for this squad throughout the entire season. 
Specifically, I would like to congratulate Head Coach Larry Ginn and 
the assistant coaches for a job well done.
  I commend them all on the spirit, pride, and hard work they have 
shown to their community, and I wish them the very best of luck in 
seasons to come.

                          ____________________