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Rep. James T. Walsh

Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, June 9, 2001, the West Genesee Wildcats defeated Bay Shore to win the New York State Class A Women's Lacrosse Championship. The Wildcats won the Class A final with a 16-10 victory over Bay Shore to top off an impressive 22-1 season and a dominant playoff run.

This talented group was guided by this year's All-CNY girls lacrosse coach, Bob Elmer, who is now in his second year leading the Wildcats. The State Champion Lady Wildcats previously won the Section III Championship and Upstate Regional to advance to the State Championship game.

The Lady Wildcats' star player is none other than the CNY Player of the Year, Martha Dwyer. West Genesse is also home to three other CNY team members: Chrissy Zaika, Meghan O'Connell and Nicole Motondo. The 2001 Class A Championship team also includes: Eileen Gagnon, Vanessa Bain, Shannon Burke, Laura Corso, Lindsey Shirtz, Kelly Fitzgerald, Colleen O'Hara, Milly Yackel, Kelly Kuss, Keri Rubeis, Nelli Nash, Katie Kozloski, Carolyn Maurer, Kim Capraro, and Eileen Flynn.

I am very proud of these young women and wish to celebrate the outstanding athletic achievements they have made this season. I am equally proud of the coaching staff and wish to join them, as well as the parents and other family members, teachers and administrators, in extending sincere congratulations for a job well done. This strong group of fine young athletes deserves special recognition.