LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Matt Willows upon the occasion of his
designation as Athlete and Hockey Performer of the Season by THE JOURNAL
NEWS

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes pleasure in honoring talented high
school athletes who distinguish themselves and their community through
outstanding athletic performance; and
WHEREAS, Athletic competition enhances the moral and physical develop-
ment of the young people of this State, preparing them for the future by
instilling in them the value of teamwork, encouraging a standard of
healthy living, imparting a desire for success and developing a sense of
fair play and competition; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commend Matt Willows upon the occasion of his designation as Athlete and
Hockey Performer of the Season by THE JOURNAL NEWS; and
WHEREAS, Clarkstown North senior, Matt Willows, set New York State
records with 87 goals and 138 points, scoring hat tricks in 19 of his
team's 26 games this season; he led the Rams to an amazing turnaround
from winning only one game last season to a 23-2-1 record and a top-five
ranking in the State this year; and
WHEREAS, In the playoffs, Matt Willows recorded three goals and two
assists in Clarkstown North's 5-0 win over Sleepy Hollow Irvington; he
then had another three goals and an assist in a 6-4 loss to White Plains
in the sectional quarterfinals; and
WHEREAS, In the League 2 title game against North Rockland, down 2-1
in the third period, Matt Willows played the final 11 minutes without a
break and netted the tying goal with two minutes left to keep the Rams'
unbeaten streak alive; he then played the entire five minute overtime;
and
WHEREAS, The goal-scoring prowess of Matt Willows comes from a rare
combination of strength, speed and skill; he is often the fastest skater
on the ice and one of the strongest; and
WHEREAS, Excellence and success in competitive sports can be achieved
only through strenuous practice; Matt Willows' dedication to hockey is a
year-round, everyday commitment; he is highly focused and has developed
a matchless work ethic; and
WHEREAS, Matt Willows' outstanding athleticism is reflective of his
dedication, determination and personal commitment; his achievements
stand as a hallmark of what is best in the families, schools and commu-
nities across New York State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Matt Willows upon the occasion of his designation as Athlete and
Hockey Performer of the Season by THE JOURNAL NEWS, and to congratulate
him for the enduring honor he has brought to his family, his school and
his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Matt Willows.