[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 4955]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         CONGRATULATING THE MARIAN UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL KNIGHTS

 Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I congratulate the Marian 
University Knights on winning the 60th Annual National Association of 
Intercollegiate Athletics, NAIA, Football National Championship.
  Marian University established its football program in 2006 and has 
committed itself to competing at the highest level both academically 
and athletically. In 2012, the Knights won the 57th Annual NAIA 
National Championship. In 2014, despite ultimately losing the title 
game, the Knights played with grit in determination in the 59th Annual 
NAIA National Championship. In December of 2015, the Knights won the 
60th Annual NAIA National Championship against Southern Oregon 31-14.
  Under the guidance of head coach Mark Henninger since 2013, the 
football team has become increasingly engaged in community outreach and 
service activities. As a team, they participate in community 
improvement efforts like Indy DO Day and form active relationships with 
local grade schools. Through the Team Impact program, the football team 
was able to form a powerful relationship with young fan Cole Winnefeld 
as he fought a courageous battle against neuroblastoma.
  Congratulations to Head Coach Henninger, the NAIA Coach of the Year, 
the entire coaching staff, athletic director Steve Downing, and all of 
the student-athletes on winning the 60th Annual NAIA Football National 
Championship on December 19, 2015. In addition, congratulations to 
university president Daniel J. Elsener, executive vice president and 
provost Thomas J. Enneking, the Marian University student body, and 
alumni. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate the Marian 
University Knights on their successful football program, and I wish 
them continued success in the future.

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