HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 98-4693, by Representatives Johnson, Hatfield, Eickmeyer and Dunn

      WHEREAS, Athletics is one of the most effective ways for students in the United States to develop leadership skills, self-discipline, initiative, and dedication; and

      WHEREAS, Participation in high school football inspires students to strive for their goals both on and off the field; and

      WHEREAS, The communication and cooperation skills learned through athletic experience play a key role in the contributions of athletes to the home, school, and community; and

      WHEREAS, The honor of being high school state champions reflects positively upon the character of the school, the students, the parents, and the community; and

      WHEREAS, The Elma High School football team, under the supervision of head coach Jim Hill and athletic director Steve Bridge, completed the 1997 season with a record of thirteen wins and no losses; and

      WHEREAS, The Elma High School football team has won the 1997 State "AA" championship; and

      WHEREAS, Through the high academic standards and goals inspired by their dedicated coaches, the team had an overall grade point average of 3.41, the highest team scholastic average in the state of Washington;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives honor and congratulate the Elma High School football team for their hard work, dedication, and sacrifice in achieving this significant accomplishment; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the families of these students be commended for the encouragement and support they have provided to these student athletes; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the coaches, teachers, classmates, parents, and community of Elma be recognized for the important part they played in helping these athletes excel; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the senior members of the Elma High School football team:  Ben Dougherty, Mark Burbidge, Clay Linich, Matt Totten, Anthony Trail, Jeremy Osbun, Pete Dotson, Rollie Finch, Ed Wallman, Travis Rowland, Jacob Peek, Brent Estes, and Tony Butorac be recognized for their team leadership; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Head Coach Jim Hill, Athletic Director Steve Bridge, and the members of the Elma High School Football Team.

      I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

      Resolution 4693 adopted by the House of Representatives

                         February 4, 1998.

                 ________________________________

                  Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk