[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 13, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING JIM CUNNINGHAM FOR BEING INDUCTED INTO THE MINOR PRO 
                         FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL SHUSTER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 13, 2016

  Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Jim 
Cunningham, of Connellsville, PA, on being inducted into the Minor Pro 
Football Hall of Fame.
   Born in Connellsville, PA, Jim grew up excelling in athletics. In 
fact, during his time at Connellsville High School, he managed to win 
10 varsity letters, competing in Track and Field, Basketball, Swimming, 
and Football. As a result of his outstanding performance, Jim was 
selected all-county in Basketball and Football two years in a row, and 
received many offers from colleges and universities to play football.
   As a means of encouraging Jim to attend the University of 
Pittsburgh, the school arranged to help his mother out with a heart 
operation she desperately needed. Thanks to this kind gesture and Jim's 
talent and dedication, he went on to a successful collegiate football 
career at Pitt that subsequently got him drafted by the Washington 
Redskins in the 3rd round in 1961. Following three seasons with the 
Redskins, Jim eventually returned home to pursue his dream of teaching. 
However, it wasn't long until Jim returned to the gridiron, this time 
playing for the Wheeling Ironmen, of the Continental Football League, 
for five seasons.
   Jim eventually retired from teaching in 1997. In addition to his 
athletic accomplishments, Jim remains grateful for his three children 
and six grandchildren, as well as his wife, Norma.
   It is my pleasure to highlight Jim's impressive football career and 
also the hardworking approach his multiple careers illustrate. I wish 
him and his family the best going forward.

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