[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 56 (Friday, March 30, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E700]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM

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                            HON. CONNIE MACK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 29, 2007

  Mr. MACK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my congratulations to 
Florida Gulf Coast University Women's Basketball team on their 
remarkable season. As the national runner-up in Division II women's 
basketball, the team has become an inspiration to Southwest Florida, 
and everyone in our community is incredibly proud of their 
accomplishments.
  The Eagles success is made even more amazing because Florida Gulf 
Coast University is Florida's newest University, having opened its 
doors just 10 short years ago.
  This year, the Eagles set a remarkable school record with 34 wins and 
only one loss, making them an elite group of NCAA student athletes. 
Head Coach Karl Smesko and his team deserve our congratulations. They 
not only won on the court, but with their passion and dedication they 
have also won Southwest Florida's admiration and respect.
  Florida Gulf Coast University is an integral part of our community, 
and their success in academics and athletics is second to none.
  Congratulations to all the coaches and players that worked so hard 
and achieved so much: Karl Smesko, head coach; LeAnn Freeland, 
assistant coach; Ebonie Halliburton, assistant coach; Bryan Crislip, 
assistant coach; Kim Balduzzi, Candace Carreras, Jen Conely, Delia De 
LaTorre, Chelsea Dermyer, Ashley Haegele, Adrianne McNally, Alex 
Nelson, Amanda Pierce, Kate Schrader, Steffi Sorensen, Princess Stewart 
and Angel Woods.

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