[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 175 (Monday, December 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2479]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CONGRATULATING SYLVESTER CROOM AND MSU

                                 ______
                                 

                   HON. CHARLES W. ``CHIP'' PICKERING

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. PICKERING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Sylvester 
Croom, who was named head football coach of the MSU Bulldogs on 
December 1, and to salute Mississippi State University for its wise 
choice in athletic leadership.
  Mississippi State University chose Coach Croom based on his skill, 
his talent, his experience and his resume. While race was not a factor 
in the decision, I am mindful that Coach Groom becomes the first black 
head football coach in the NCAA Southeastern Conference. I am proud 
that it is a Mississippi institution that has broken that color 
barrier.
  Coach Croom was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Growing up in 
Mississippi's eastern neighbor, he played as starting center at the 
University of Alabama under legendary Coach Paul ``Bear'' Bryant. After 
securing a bachelor's in history, Croom played professionally with the 
New Orleans Saints. He returned to the Crimson Tide as a graduate 
assistant (obtaining a master's of educational administration) and as a 
linebackers coach.
  He has served on the coaching staff of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 
Indianapolis Colts, the San Diego Chargers (making it to the Super 
Bowl) and the Detroit Lions. Mississippi's gain is Wisconsin's loss. 
MSU gains Croom as head coach as he concludes a strong season as 
running backs coach for the Green Bay Packers where he has been on 
staff with Coach Mike Sherman since 2001.
  MSU is the flagship university in Mississippi's Third Congressional 
district. Located in Starkville, Scott Field is home to Bulldogs and 
cowbells. We are proud to welcome Sylvester Groom as MSU's 31st Head 
Football Coach. He will replace the most winning coach in Mississippi 
State's history, Jackie Sherrill, who retires this year with a 
distinguished and honorable legacy.
  I salute MSU President Charles Lee and Athletic Director Larry 
Templeton for their wisdom in this decision and once again congratulate 
Sylvester Croom and the Bulldogs.
  Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt in my mind that Coach Croom will make 
us proud in Mississippi. We are already thrilled and excited about the 
prospect of our future together.

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