[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 185 (Wednesday, December 10, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Pages S10879-S10880]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING RYNE DOUGHERTY

 Mr. LAUTENBERG. Madam President, I wish to pay tribute to Ryne 
Dougherty, a young man from Montclair, NJ, whose young life was 
tragically cut short on October 15. He suffered a fatal brain 
hemorrhage while playing football, the sport about which he was so 
passionate. Although he was only 16 years old, Ryne made a tremendous 
impact on his teammates, friends, and community. He was a caring and 
loving young man who displayed a special kindness and a deep commitment 
to his friends and family. An honor student and linebacker on the 
Montclair High School Junior Varsity football team, Ryne also found 
time to fix computers to benefit underprivileged families. Ryne was 
admired by all who knew him--over 1,000 mourners gathered together to 
remember him and comfort each other.
  Ryne worked toward his goals with steadfast determination, eager to 
succeed. His football coach said that Ryne never sought glory or 
praise; he came to the field every day prepared to work his hardest out 
of respect for his teammates and love for the game. Family and friends 
said that Ryne always wanted to talk about football. He was always 
ready with the latest NFL statistics and greatly enjoyed playing 
football video games with his friends in his spare time. To honor Ryne, 
the New York Giants held a moment of silence during their game on 
October 19, a fitting tribute for a young fan.

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  Ryne was a mentor and an inspiration to his teammates. Many friends 
sought to follow his example: succeeding in school and working 
diligently on the field all while keeping a smile on his face. During 
Ryne's funeral, Rev. Gerald Whitaker asked the mourners to imagine that 
Ryne had made a game-saving tackle to end a big game against their 
rival high school. The crowd responded with a thunderous ovation, a 
fitting way to honor Ryne.
  Finally, I would like express my sympathy to Ryne's family. I hope 
that they will be comforted by their many positive memories and by the 
outpouring of support from the Montclair community. His family decided 
to donate Ryne's organs, yet another way that Ryne has touched the 
lives of others. I am proud to honor him today.

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