[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 6] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 8261-8262] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING THE RICHMOND HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING TEAM ______ HON. CANDICE S. MILLER of michigan in the house of representatives Thursday, May 13, 2010 Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the outstanding season put forth by the Richmond High School Blue Devils Wrestling Team. Throughout the entire year, the members of the 2010 team demonstrated true solidarity, and great individual fortitude worthy of many accolades. And judging by the trophy case, the Blue Devils have the hardware to prove it. To start, Richmond won the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division III Team State Title! This is the school's fourth state title since 2000, after winning the State's top award in 2002 and 2006. But I would be remiss if I did not also point out the Blue Devils' other impressive final finishes where they earned state runner- up in 1996, 2004 and 2007. In addition, Blue Devils Brian Henke and Stephen Ireland dominated their weight classes to win individual state titles. They manufactured impressive overall records of 50-0 and 30-0 respectively. Madam Speaker, my home county of Macomb certainly noticed what the Blue Devils were able to accomplish as they took home ``Team of the Year'' honors. But this was just icing on the cake as individual team members picked up numerous awards. Stephen Ireland, Dominic Cattera, Justin Russo, Pat Baruth, Preston Treend, Brian Henke, Adrian Morang, Roger Crump and Dakota Boldrey all earned First Team All Macomb County for Division II, III, and IV. Dustin Pitcel, Garett Edwards, Casey Martin and Greg Sebastian were named to the Second Team; while Austin Cattera and Josh Rivard earned spots on the Third Team. Brandon Pawlak, Grant Hafner, Sean Clancy, Alex Morang, Austin Kratt, Scott Gulette, Robert Clancy and Eric Boyd followed up with Honorable Mention distinctions. Macomb also selected an All-County Dream Team which had five members from Richmond--Stephen Ireland, Dominic Cattera, Justin Russo, Preston Treend, and Brian Henke who all got the nod. I commend Coaches Robert Hablin, George Hamblin and Brandon Day for their efforts to prepare this team for battle on the mat every day. They were shining examples of strong leadership. They also realized this quest to be very demanding, so they put the team through intense physical training and offered the guidance and mental focus needed to wrestle. I believe these key attributes are crucial and inseparable once you cross that line to compete. The Blue Devils coaching staff had the ability to keep the team energized and hungry each time they faced off against their opponents. This is an extremely difficult task, considering the various pressures and distractions a high school student-athlete encounters. Madam Speaker, simply put, it is not easy to remain at the top of your chosen field, no matter what your profession is. Once a team wins a championship they become a target, and their foes become even more determined to defeat them. But to this point, I would evoke the words of Green Bay Packers legendary football Coach Vince Lombardi who once said, ``Winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all the time thing. You don't win once in a while; you don't do the right thing once in awhile; you do them right all the time. Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.'' History clearly shows the Richmond High School Wrestling Program has developed a habit of winning and an environment that breeds success. Moreover, I wish to recognize the hard work, determination and teamwork displayed by all the members of the 2010 Richmond High School Wrestling Program. I applaud the coaches, support staff, teachers, parents and fans alike, for their assistance and for making this another season to remember. Despite the injuries and grueling practices, the Blue Devils showed once again they had what it takes to accomplish their ultimate goal--a state title! Teamwork, dedication and friendship all helped deliver this championship. I know the City of Richmond and Macomb County take great pride in what these young men were able to accomplish at each level of achievement. Madam Speaker, I certainly share that pride and express my personal congratulations. This team has exceeded all expectations and lived up to the strong traditions that define Richmond Wrestling. Way to go Blue Devils! [[Page 8262]] ____________________