Bill Text: MS HR146 | 2026 | Regular Session | Engrossed

Mississippi House Resolution 146

Bill Title: West Lauderdale Lady Knights Soccer Team; commend upon winning MHSAA Class 4A State Championship.

Sponsorship: Partisan Bill (Republican 1)

Status: (Passed) 2026-03-26 - Enrolled Bill Signed [HR146 Detail]

Download: Mississippi-2026-HR146-Engrossed.html

MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2026 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Representative Calvert

House Resolution 146

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE WEST LAUDERDALE HIGH SCHOOL LADY KNIGHTS SOCCER TEAM UPON WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION (MHSAA) CLASS 4A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the West Lauderdale High School Lady Knights Soccer Team reigned supreme at the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 4A State Championship, triumphantly capping off the season by bringing home the coveted Gold Ball; and

WHEREAS, on February 21, 2026, fans crowded the Ridgeland High School soccer field to watch the Lady Knights showcase their extraordinary skill and determination on the pitch, and the team's outstanding performance did not disappoint as they clinched the championship title in a shutout three-nil victory over the New Albany Lady Bulldogs; and

WHEREAS, West Lauderdale started off strong in the first half after being awarded a penalty kick, an opportunity not wasted by sophomore Aubri Cooper, who successfully put one past the keeper for an early 1-0 lead; and

WHEREAS, with 23 minutes left in the second half, freshman Harleigh Culpepper floated one into the net, bringing the team one goal closer to the championship title, and Aubri Cooper, who was named MVP of the match, ensured the team's ultimate victory with another penalty kick in the final minutes of the game, securing the well-earned win for the Lady Knights in the grand finale of their incredible season; and

WHEREAS, the team's 2-1 loss in the 2025 championship game lit a fire under this year's players, motivating them to train even harder and return to the tournament better than before, and their unmatched commitment and hard work paid off in spades, making their comeback victory that much sweeter; and

WHEREAS, ranked 5th overall in the state, the Lady Knights have relied on their swift feet, strategic maneuvering and athletic prowess to outlast and outplay their opponents, closing the season with a 19-5-1 record, 96 goals scored and 18 goals conceded; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Knights have ascended to the pinnacle of soccer excellence this season thanks to the innate talent and ceaseless spirit of the team's athletes: Addison Scott, Ava Towner, Jena Shirley, Annisten Snider, Audrey Smith, Eden Culpepper, Elizabeth Bailey, Aubri Cooper, Chloe Reid, Kylie Reid, Lexy Followay, Presleigh Wade, Anne Larkin Vollor, Harleigh Culpepper, Kylie Graham, Mallery Hicks, Morgan Copeland, Nora Peterson, Ruby Fairchild, Sara Frichter, Savannah Knight, Addi Snider, Dru Hart, Jordyn Cottrill, Kaitlyn Bearden, Sadie Clay, Aven Molony, Aven Stringer, Avery Blake Shirley, Jolee Bunyard, Lyda Kate Scarbrough, Sadie Fairchild and Willow Culpepper, with the support of the team's managers: Macy Shirley and Marley Pickett; and

WHEREAS, under the guidance and direction of Head Coach Brandon Rodgers and Assistant Coach Celeste Copeland, the Lady Knights have reached new heights of success this season, and this dynamic coaching staff has tirelessly supported and encouraged each and every individual team member to be the best athlete possible, building a prestigious soccer program that has earned its reputation as a powerhouse in the State of Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Knights will surely carry the unforgettable memories they have made during their spectacular season, as well as the lessons of teamwork, dedication and perseverance they have learned, throughout their lives as they remember the feeling of greatness that accompanies being a champion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend outstanding Mississippi student-athletes, especially those such as the West Lauderdale High School Lady Knights Soccer Team, and it is with immense pride that we congratulate this elite group of young women, who have brought great honor to their school, their community and the entire State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the West Lauderdale High School Lady Knights Soccer Team upon winning the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 4A State Championship, and extend best wishes to the team for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the West Lauderdale High School Lady Knights Soccer Team and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.