A house RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE LAURENS ACADEMY VOLLEYBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR A REMARKABLE SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON WINNING THE 2023 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION CLASS 1A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

Whereas, on Monday, October 23, 2023, the members of the Laurens Academy volleyball team captured their second straight title at the South Carolina Independent School Association Class 1A state tournament, held on the campus of Erskine College; and

Whereas, to the delight of their faithful fans, the Laurens Academy Lady Crusaders nailed a 3-1 victory over Cambridge Academy and established their team as a Piedmont powerhouse; and

Whereas, Laurens went 29-7-2 this season, and a great deal of that record was due to the team's strong senior roster. This year, the majority of the Lady Crusaders were seniors who had played in last season's state triumph and who thereby had gained valuable experience -- collective experience these seniors energetically and successfully applied to their 2023 showing on the court. Younger team members were taking careful note in preparation for racking up yet another state victory next year; and

Whereas, in a sport that exacts strength and speed acquired through rigorous training, Head Coach Shannon McGee and her skilled coaching staff used their own athletic abilities and training to build a championship-caliber team and teach these athletes life principles that will extend beyond the courts; and

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives appreciates the pride and recognition that the Laurens Academy volleyball players have brought to their school and community, and the members look forward to following the team's continued achievements in the days ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor the Laurens Academy volleyball team, coaches, and school officials for a remarkable season and congratulate them on winning the 2023 South Carolina Independent School Association Class 1A State Championship title.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Headmaster Todd Kirk and Head Coach Shannon McGee of Laurens Academy.

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