WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to recognize excellence in all fields of endeavor; and

WHEREAS, The Richland High School Bombers completed their undefeated season and displayed extraordinary excellence in winning the 2017 Washington State 4A football championship for the third time in their school's history; and

WHEREAS, Under the leadership of Mike Neidhold, the Bombers finished with the exceptional record of 14-0; and

WHEREAS, In the first round of the 4A Playoff Tournament, held on November 10, 2017, the Richland Bombers defeated the West Valley Rams 62-28; and

WHEREAS, In the quarterfinals of the 4A Playoff Tournament, held on November 18, 2017, the Richland Bombers edged out a 28-21 victory over the Gonzaga Prep Bullpups; and

WHEREAS, In the semifinals of the 4A Playoff Tournament, held on November 25, 2017, the Richland Bombers offense led the team to a 42-10 victory over the Central Valley Bears; and

WHEREAS, On December 2, 2017, in front of hundreds of fans at the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington, the Richland Bombers defeated the Woodinville Falcons by a score of 28-21 to win the 4A State Championship; and

WHEREAS, Richland Bombers' Adam Weissenfels intercepted the Falcons leaving only 1:23 in the game; and

WHEREAS, For the first time in school history, the Bombers have appeared in the 4A State Championship game in back-to-back years; and

WHEREAS, The Richland Bombers have had the best three-year stretch in Bomber history, finishing in third place in 2015, second place in 2016, and now first place in 2017; and

WHEREAS, With a final record of 14-0, the Richland Bombers had their first undefeated season since 1914 when they finished 2-0; and

WHEREAS, For their season, the Bombers boast thirty-two senior players: Christian Mathesen, Casey Perryman, Trey Zorich, Adam Weissenfels, Connor Faucheux, Cade Jensen, Tsega McDuff, Tyler Fishback, Steel Roberts, Jarred Whitby, Brandon Extrom, Conner Smith, Ryan Piper, Parker McCary, Josh Mendoza, Sammy Cervantes, Alex Yehle, Colton Roney, A.J. Storms, Caleb Chapman, Jax Lee, Mason Bautista, Santos Gallegos, Rene Marin, Ben Dezember, Sydney Bryan, Braden Powell, Jacob Stansfield, Max Hunnego;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the Richland High School Bombers for winning the 2017 4A football championship; applaud the team's historic accomplishments and contributions to student athletics and the community; commend the team's players, coaches, and staff for their hard work and dedication; and recognize students, alumni, and loyal fans for supporting the Bombers on their successful quest to capture the team's third championship trophy; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the Richland High School Bombers' football team and to Head Coach Mike Neidhold.