[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11154]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING MARIA CONLON OF THE 2002-2003 UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT 
                        WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 9, 2003

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I 
rise today to join family, friends, and the Derby community on ``Maria 
Conlon Day'' to recognize the outstanding achievements of our hometown 
hero, Maria Conlon. Starting guard for the Lady Huskies of the 
University of Connecticut, Maria was instrumental throughout the season 
and the National Championship Tournament.
  A graduate of Seymour High School, Maria displayed a unique talent 
during her high school career--a fact which is reflected in the 
recognition she received as WBCA Honorable Mention All-American, 
Gatorade State Player of the Year, three-time All-State pick, four-time 
All-League Selection, two-time State Championship MVP, and New Haven 
Register Player of the Year. She has owned the State records for three-
pointers in both a season and career. She continues to own the school 
records at Seymour High School for points, assists, and steals. Maria 
was honored at the end of her high school career with the retirement of 
her jersey number.
  During her three-year career with the University of Connecticut 
Huskies, Maria has become well-known for her sharpshooting from behind 
the three-point line. She is one of only two players to have been on 
the court in all seventy of UCONN's record-setting run of seventy 
straight victories. There are many facets which must come together to 
make such history. Maria's leadership, spirit, and uncompromising drive 
are one of the forces behind the Huskies' sensational victories.
  Winning their fourth NCAA championship, this year's victory was 
especially gratifying because the Huskies overcame incredible odds to 
earn a repeat championship. The first women's basketball team in 
history to win a national championship without a single senior on the 
roster, the Lady Huskies have set a new standard for team work and 
perfection. Maria and her fellow teammates have again shown that their 
undeniable talent and dedication will make dreams a reality.
  Maria has worked hard to achieve her goals and serves as a role model 
to young women across the country. We are certainly fortunate to have 
her call Derby home. I am honored to stand today and join the Derby 
community in congratulating Maria Conlon and honoring her on ``Maria 
Conlon Day'' for her outstanding achievements--not only as a Lady 
Husky, but as a member of our community. Hers is a legacy that will 
continue to inspire generations to come.

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