[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 85 (Friday, June 18, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATIONS CENTRAL CABARRUS HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL TEAM

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                            HON. ROBIN HAYES

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 16, 2004

  Mr. HAYES. Mr. Speaker it is my honor to rise today to congratulate 
the Central Cabarrus High School Softball team on their victory at the 
4A NCHSAA Softball Tournament on June 6th. This is Cabarrus High 
School's fourth state championship win. The sensational Lady Vikings 
captured the state championship title in 1993, 2000, 2001 as 3A members 
and now in 2004 as 4A members.
  Coached by Monte Sherrill, the team had an astounding season with an 
overall record of 32-1. The Lady Vikings claimed their title by beating 
Cape Fear with a final score of 1-0. The team is now ranked 7th 
nationally by USA Today and the National Fast-Pitch Coaches 
Association. Gina Allen was declared the Most Valuable Player in the 
tournament due to her outstanding job on the pitcher's mound. Allen 
tossed a five-hit shutout against Cape Fear to lead the team to the 
title.
  The Lady Vikings have reached this level of success by extreme hard 
work and dedication. Most of the players stay in shape by continuing to 
play year-round on competitive traveling teams. Cabarrus County has 
done an excellent job of creating recreational opportunities beyond the 
high school seasons.
  Participating in individual and team sports can offer tremendous 
social advantages while challenging a young person physically and 
fostering honest competition. There is also evidence that sports can 
increase a student's self-esteem and academic performance. Sports allow 
teenagers to take on leadership roles, handle adversity, and improve 
their time management skills.
  The Lady Vikings of Cabarrus County have succeeded in pushing 
themselves to be outstanding athletes and have stood up to the 
challenges placed in front of them. They have come together as a team 
and shown their peers that commitment and self-sacrifice can lead to 
success. I congratulate them and wish them continued success next year. 
We are all proud of their accomplishments.

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