The 2015 Blackhawk football team made history once again. Two state representatives -- Rep. Sue Scott and Rep. Rebecca Petty -- contacted school officials asking to present a citation honoring the team members who competed in the state semi-finals in the 4A division.
Scott, District 95, and Petty, District 94, contacted Tony Travis, head football coach and athletic director, wanting to recognize the 2015 Blackhawk football team and their accomplishments during last season's record-breaking run to the state semi-finals. During the 2015 season, the team set a school record for total wins in a season with 11, wins in a single playoff with three and made it to the state semi-finals for the first time in school history.
Scott, speaking at half-time of the Tuesday, Jan. 12, basketball game, said she was excited to be there to honor the athletes and to "see some really good basketball."
"I am so proud of you guys and I know your parents are, too," Scott said.
"Pea Ridge continues to raise the bar for small town American excellence. I am always extremely pleased to say 'I represent Pea Ridge, Ark.' This high school continues to educate your children through programs that allow your children to grow up and become fine Arkansas adults.
"We want Pea Ridge High School students, upon graduation, to live here, to work here and to pray here. We want you all to come back home after you have reached whatever educational degree you have decided is appropriate for you.
"Your Pea Ridge Blackhawk football team reached the level of excellence that has all of us cheering 'Go, Blackhawks, go!' You made us proud in Pea Ridge, but best of all, you made yourselves proud. Each of you are now a part of Blackhawk history. Thank you for your many hours of work achieving this citation from your state capitol.
"Hard work, perseverance and a very good mentor, your coach, coach Travis -- they gave you all the winning tools you needed. I'm proud of you, your community is proud of you and Gov. (Asa) Hutchinson is proud of you also. He sent you this message 'Go, Blackhawks, go!'" Scott said.
Prior to reading the citation, Petty said: "I was so thrilled to watch you guys for few games ... you guys were wonderful. It was a great time."
The citation states: "Whereas, sports and athletics are challenging and stimulating activities and the best performances come only through the combination of talent, hard work, and support from family, friends and community ... the Pea Ridge High School Blackhawks Football Team, who are to be commended for their outstanding performance during the 2015 season, are a group of intelligent young adults, who will go on to make many positive contributions in their community; and ... the House of Representatives of the Ninetieth General Assembly of the State of Arkansas takes great pride in recognizing the Pea Ridge High School Blackhawks Football Team and wishes the best in future endeavors."
Sports on 01/20/2016