[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 39 (Thursday, March 22, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E426]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          SALUTING THE COUGARS

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                           HON. MIKE McINTYRE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 22, 2001

  Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the East Bladen High 
School men's basketball team for their extraordinary accomplishment 
this month. Their spirit and determination throughout their 25-3 season 
has been an inspiration to us all.
  On Friday, March 9, the Cougars defeated Lexington High School 75-65 
to win the North Carolina state 2-A men's basketball title for the 
second time in school history. This is truly an amazing achievement for 
Coach Alvin Thompson, his coaching staff and the entire Cougar team. 
This marked the third consecutive year that a team from the Waccamaw 
Conference has won North Carolina's 2-A championship and brought the 
trophy home to southeastern North Carolina.
  Throughout the year, the Cougars have represented the students and 
faculty of East Bladen High School well by sticking together and 
demonstrating good sportsmanship. Coach Thompson has instilled in his 
players the ethic of dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork in the pursuit 
of excellence, and he instilled in the rest of us a renewed 
appreciation of what it means to win with dignity and integrity.
  A loyal following of students, teachers, coaches, administrators, 
friends, and fans supported the Cougars. Their support made this a 
family affair and one that united the entire community.
  My fellow colleagues, please join me in saluting this fantastic group 
of players and their coaches, parents and classmates who made this East 
Bladen basketball season one to remember. Great job, Cougars!
  The 2000-2001 East Bladen High School Cougars (listed 
alphabetically): Michael Andrews; Travis Andrews; Eric Brown; Sakrid 
Dent; Aking Elting; James Freeman; William Graham; Colliek Hayes; 
Marvin McKiver; T.C. McKoy; Matthew McKoy; Rodrick McMillian; James 
McRae; Cozell Monroe; Jay Raynor; Antoine Peterson; Ritchie Priest; and 
Wesley Sasser.

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