[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18336]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF DWAYNE NELSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 29, 2011

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
of Mr. Dwayne Fitzgerald Nelson who passed away suddenly on October 18, 
2011 at the age of 50. Mr. Nelson, also known as ``Coach Rock,'' 
coached the boys' junior varsity basketball and football teams at 
Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Before coaching, he 
worked for the City of Fort Lauderdale for over 20 years. He impacted 
the lives of many individuals in the community and will be truly 
missed.
  Hundreds of mourners came to Nelson's funeral service, including 
friends, family members, colleagues, and other members of the 
community, celebrating the many lives that he touched throughout his 
years of service. Many of his current and former players came to pay 
their respects, and the Dillard boys' basketball and football teams 
wore T-shirts with Nelson's picture on the front in memory of their 
respected coach. Those in attendance remembered how Nelson helped lead 
the boys' basketball team to five state championships.
  Dwayne Nelson committed his life to serving the Fort Lauderdale 
community. His colleagues at Dillard High School noted how he was the 
first person at the school every day for almost 20 years. As a coach, 
he taught his players lessons that went far beyond any athletic field. 
He made sure that they kept their grades up, so that they would succeed 
both on the field and in the classroom. This type of commitment is what 
set him apart as an outstanding mentor and coach.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember Dwayne Nelson's dedication to 
improving the lives of so many. His service to Dillard High School and 
the City of Fort Lauderdale, demonstrates how everyday Americans can 
make a real difference by helping others in their community. My 
thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Nelson's family and friends during 
this most difficult time.

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