[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 43 (Tuesday, March 29, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E547]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY--WEST PLAINS MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JO ANN EMERSON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 29, 2011

  Mrs. EMERSON. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate the Missouri 
State University--West Plains Men's Basketball team for playing their 
best season in Grizzly athletic history. The Grizzlies won the Region 
16 regular season competition with a perfect 10-0 record. The team then 
proceeded to win the NJCAA Postseason Tournament and the NJCAA District 
4 Championship.
  The Grizzlies played in the spotlight of the NJCAA as they ranked #1 
in the National Poll for five consecutive weeks. Coach Yancey Walker 
demonstrated outstanding leadership while serving as the head 
basketball coach for the past three years. This year he was publicly 
recognized when he was selected as NJCAA Region 16 Coach of the Year 
and NJCAA District 4 Coach of the Year.
  This outstanding season would not have been possible without the 
support of fans and campus leaders such as Chancellor Drew Bennett who 
works diligently to show his support of these student-athletes both on 
the court and in the classroom. The coaches and players of the MSU-WP 
team exemplify the highest virtues of the community: teamwork, loyalty, 
sportsmanship, and dedication.
  Once again, congratulations Grizzlies, we are very proud of you. We 
look forward to cheering you on through another great season next year.

                          ____________________