[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E24]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING THE WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY HILLTOPPERS FOOTBALL 
                                  TEAM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON LEWIS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 7, 2003

  Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 
Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers on their first NCAA Division I-
AA football championship.
  Today in Bowling Green, they are putting up seven new signs for 
drivers to see when they come into the city, signs recognizing the 
Toppers as national champions. Here in Washington, I introduced a 
resolution congratulating the Hilltoppers on their win, and my Kentucky 
colleague Jim Bunning has introduced the same resolution in the Senate.
  The 15th ranked Hilltoppers defeated top-ranked McNeese State 34-14 
to take the championship on December 20. Western brought their best 
game to the playoffs and the championship, defeating the three highest 
ranked teams on their way to winning the title.
  Just as they had all season, the Hilltoppers relied on their tough 
defense and strong running game. Jon Frazier rushed for 159 yards and 
two touchdowns, bringing his season total to 1,537 yards and moving him 
into second place in Western's running records. The defense combined 
for three interceptions and a sack, holding McNeese State well below 
its season scoring average.
  In his 14th year at Western Kentucky, coach Jack Harbaugh saw the 
team's hard work pay off. He has built a successful program over the 
years that the university, the Bowling Green community and the state 
can be proud of.
   After starting the season with a 2-3 record, and a loss to McNeese 
State, the Hilltoppers relied on their teamwork and dedication to win 
10 straight games, finishing the season with the national championship.
  I join Western Kentucky University and all of Bowling Green in 
congratulating the Hilltopper football team for its success. Go Big 
Red!

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