[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 169 (Thursday, October 19, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE LUFKIN LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS, THE 2017 LITTLE LEAGUE 
                  WORLD SERIES U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOUIE GOHMERT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 19, 2017

  Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, a different variety of thunder rolled 
across Williamsport, Pennsylvania in late August, which provided some 
respite from the devastating storms which were battering Texas . . . 
the ``Thundering 13'' from Angelina County, Texas captured the 
attention of millions and the title of a lifetime when they emerged 
victorious as the U.S. National Champions in the 2017 Little League 
World Series tournament.
  The Lufkin All-Stars gained its distinctive nickname of ``Thundering 
13'' during grueling two-a-day practices and games leading up to the 
tournament, when the young men pounded so many home runs that 
spectators said it sounded like thunder.
  A single loss during the national tournament motivated the team even 
further, resulting in a rematch where they ultimately emerged 
victorious against the only team that challenged their bid for the 
national title.
  With the strength of their camaraderie uniting them, and the 
unwavering support of their family, friends, and fans, this talented, 
resolute, and relentless national championship team never lost sight of 
the dream.
  This remarkable accomplishment cannot be possible without the 
determination and hard work of every team member, along with the skill 
and experience of dedicated Head Coach and Manager Bud Maddux, along 
with Assistant Coaches Malcolm Deason and Ryan Deaton.
  My most enthusiastic praise and congratulations goes to national 
champions Chip Buchanan, Malcolm Deason, Jr., Charlie Deaton, Hunter 
Ditsworth, Kolby Kovar, Lance Modisette, Christian Mumphery, Zach 
Phipps, Mark Requena, Collin Ross, Chandler Spencer, Blake Slaga, and 
Clayton Wigley.
  The path to a championship title can be long and arduous, but the 
Lufkin All-Stars met the challenge sustained by the solid and 
enthusiastic encouragement of a fiercely loyal network of community 
support which provided the foundation upon which a national 
championship emerged.
  These young men bear witness to the fact that anything is achievable 
though focus, hard work and determination. These are guiding life 
principles that lead to success not only on the field, but will 
undoubtedly resonate through every endeavor these valiant championship 
players undertake in their entire lifetimes.
  May God continue to bless these young people, along with their 
families, friends and neighbors in east Texas and beyond. It is an 
extraordinary privilege to recognize the Lufkin All-Stars, 2017 Little 
League World Series U.S. National Champions.

                          ____________________