Bill Text: MS SR85 | 2026 | Regular Session | Engrossed

Mississippi Senate Resolution 85

Bill Title: Commend Florence High School Girls Soccer Team upon winning the MHSAA Class 5A State Champioinship.

Sponsorship: Partisan Bill (Republican 3)

Status: (Passed) 2026-03-26 - Adopted [SR85 Detail]

Download: Mississippi-2026-SR85-Engrossed.html

MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2026 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) Rhodes, Harkins, Kirby

Senate Resolution 85

(As Adopted by Senate)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE 2025-2026 FLORENCE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER TEAM AND COACH BILL HOOD FOR WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION (MHSAA) CLASS 5A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the 2025-2026 Florence High School Girls Soccer Team was outstanding at the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 5A State Championship, bringing home the Gold Ball in its third consecutive title game appearance and marking the team's second state championship win in the last three years; and

WHEREAS, fans crowded the stands to watch the Lady Eagles showcase their exemplary skill and grit on the pitch, and the team's spectacular performance did not disappoint as they clinched the championship title in a 4-1 victory over the East Central Lady Hornets; and

WHEREAS, Florence took an early lead as Mallory Jackson netted the opening goal in the 5th minute of the championship game, setting the team up for success, and though the Lady Hornets quickly managed to put one past the keeper to momentarily even the score, the Lady Eagles never waivered in determination and stamina as they fought to regain control of the game; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Eagles quickly bounced back as Mary Elise Taylor and Jordyn Quick both managed to find the back of the net before halftime, and the team's defense maintained dominance in the second half of the game, refusing to let the Lady Hornets score again; and

WHEREAS, Jordyn Quick landed the final blow of the game with another goal and secured the well-earned win for the Lady Eagles in a triumphant finale to their incredible season; and

WHEREAS, the team's previous loss in penalty kicks last year lit a fire under the returning competitors, motivating them to train even harder and return to the championship better than before, and their hard work paid off, making its comeback victory that much sweeter; and

WHEREAS, after winning four state titles and reaching the state championship for the fifth time, the senior members of the Lady Eagles will surely carry the unforgettable memories they have made during their time on this dynamic team, as well as the lessons of teamwork, dedication and perseverance they have learned; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Eagles have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Bill Hood, who has broadened the team's knowledge of the sport and refined their skills in execution, producing high caliber players and plays; and

WHEREAS, the 2025-2026 Florence High School Girls Soccer Team Roster: Kylie Reynolds, Addison Grantham, Mylee Mangum, Delaney Cannon, McKala Williamson, Emerson Walsh, Brelynn Grice, Kadie Carroll, Regina Guzman, Raeleigh Statham, Brooke Bridges, Kylee Cloer, Harper Paige, Ella Grace Sanford, Emma Marchant, Emmalyn Thomas, Mallory Jackson, Sydney O'Hair, Harleigh Short, Lilly Banks, Kendal Patterson, Mary Elise Taylor, Wendy Manchame', Jordyn Quick, Mary Grace Tomlinson, Mackenzie Lilley and Makayla Stephens; Head Coach Bill Hood and Assistant Coach Josh Cavanaugh; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes, whose talent and drive have brought great pride to their school, their community and the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the 2025-2026 Florence High School Girls Soccer Team and Head Coach Bill Hood upon winning the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 5A State Championship, and extend best wishes to the team for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Head Coach Bill Hood and Principal Jason Thomas for the Florence High School Girls Soccer Team, forwarded to the Rankin County Board of Education, and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.