[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 87 (Tuesday, June 2, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E812]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TRIBUTE TO THE SAN ELIZARIO HIGH SCHOOL EAGLES STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. WILL HURD

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 2, 2015

  Mr. HURD of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
San Elizario High School Eagles for their victory in the Texas Class 4A 
Boys State Soccer Championship. Hard work and dedication over the years 
led the Eagles to this victory and allowed them to finish out the 
season with eighteen wins, four losses and three ties. The journey 
started in 2009 and culminated on April 17, 2015, when the Eagles 
secured their win against the Liberty Hill Panthers with a 4 to 2 
victory.
   Eight years ago, the Eagles won sectional rounds, beating the state 
champs at Del Valle High School. The next year, they secured a district 
championship and Area title. Following a winning season, they earned 
three playoff trophies in 2013. With successes like these behind them, 
they went into this season with an unmatched drive to win. On that 
Friday in April, when the final score showed 4 to 2, the roar in the 
stands could be heard throughout the city. The wishes of good luck from 
citizens across San Elizario were received, and the Eagles delivered.
   Our District expands from San Antonio to El Paso, and within its 
vast area lies San Elizario, home to 13,000. The city is beaming with 
pride for the team, the young men's family and friends, and their high 
school. For every member of the team, there were countless community 
members supporting them in the stands as they went on to win game after 
game in the playoffs, culminating with the raising of the trophy. In a 
city with a small population, the Eagles have created a lasting legacy 
that will not be forgotten.
   The Eagles' level of excellence as a whole is a reflection of the 
individual players and their desire for success and dedication to hard 
work. Head Coach Max Sappenfield was able to lead the Eagles, and the 
young men demonstrated to him and each other the kind of teamwork 
worthy of a state championship. This victory is a result not only from 
talent, but also from hours spent on the field, the strategic planning 
behind each game, and fine tuning the skills of each player. The 
Eagles' dedication and sacrifices have truly paid off, and is a source 
of pride for the entire city and the 23rd Congressional District of 
Texas. It is my honor to represent San Elizario High School, and I wish 
continued success to the team and each of its members in their future 
endeavors.

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