TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE A.C. FLORA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON WINNING THE 2014 CLASS AAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

Whereas, in a history-making effort, the A.C. Flora High School baseball team grabbed top honors at the state title series on Saturday, May 24, 2014, in a match that saw the Falcons steamroll past Hartsville 9-3; and

Whereas, with this triumph, the Falcons became the first Class AAA baseball team to capture three consecutive state championships, sweeping the best-of-three series to etch their name in the record books forever; and

Whereas, this is A.C. Flora's fifth state championship since 2001 and the first won on its home field. The Falcons won titles in 2001 and 2007 before winning the last three in impressive fashion. They've gone 24-3 in the postseason during the three-year run and have earned the right to call themselves one of the most dominant programs in Coach Andy Hallett's seventeen seasons; and

Whereas, they knew that every time they stepped on the field, they would get the other team's best shot, but with thirteen seniors, Coach Hallett, who is himself an athlete of no mean ability, felt confident; and

Whereas, Class AAA Player of the Year, shortstop Madison Stokes, was right in claiming it was the Falcon's defense that separates them from other good teams. These talented young athletes managed to accomplish the feat of making the hard plays look routine; and

Whereas, proud of these fine student athletes, the South Carolina House of Representatives appreciates the recognition the A.C. Flora High School baseball players have brought to their school and community, and the members look to hear of many more victories for the school in coming seasons. 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 A.C. Flora High School baseball team, coaches, and school officials for an outstanding season and congratulate them on winning the 2014 Class AAA state championship title.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Principal Richard K. McClure and Coach Andy Hallett.