Bill Text: TX HR85 | 2019-2020 | 86th Legislature | Enrolled

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Bill Title: Commending W. T. Johnston on his achievements as head coach of the Newton High School football team.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)

Status: (Passed) 2019-03-11 - Reported enrolled [HR85 Detail]

Download: Texas-2019-HR85-Enrolled.html

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H.R. No. 85

R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, W. T. Johnston, head football coach at Newton High
School, has distinguished himself as an exemplary mentor who has
inspired his players with his leadership and his courageous
determination in battling a serious medical challenge; and
WHEREAS, Coach Johnston's most recent gridiron success came
during the 2018 season, when he guided his team to the University
Interscholastic League 3A Division 2 state championship; this
marked the second consecutive state title for the Eagles, who have
tallied a perfect record over the past two seasons, winning 30 games
in a row; moreover, Newton was the 3A Division 2 runner-up in 2014;
and
WHEREAS, These accomplishments are all the more remarkable
given that Coach Johnston has dealt with chronic health issues for
many years and has been afflicted with a rare life-threatening
condition, graft versus host disease, since 2015; on several
occasions, he has been told that he only has months to live, but he
has persevered, continuing to fulfill his duties as head coach; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his ordeal, this valiant Texan has
benefited from the support of those around him; his wife, Debbie,
has played an important part in his fight against the disease, and
area residents have generously contributed to a fund to offset his
medical bills; in addition, the team's coaches and players have
assisted in any way they could, and his son, defensive coordinator
Drew Johnston, has been particularly important, shouldering many of
the coaching responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, By demonstrating an unflagging commitment to
excellence regardless of the obstacles before him, W. T. Johnston
has become a source of inspiration to his players and to the entire
Newton community, and he is indeed deserving of special
recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby commend W. T. Johnston on his achievements as
head coach of the Newton High School football team and congratulate
him on his most recent state championship victory; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Coach Johnston as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
White
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 85 was adopted by the House on March
6, 2019, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House