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Floor Speech

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Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the Harding University football team on winning the 2023 Division II NCAA National Championship. The school is proud to call Searcy, AR, home, and we are pleased to join all those celebrating this historic, undefeated season.

Those of us who have ever played football or followed along as fans are familiar with the term that describes each team's time with the ball as they move down the field: ``drive.'' But drive is also what you need to finish a perfect season. The Harding Bisons exemplified it and racked up major achievements along the way, including breaking the collegiate rushing record with more than 6,000 yards on the ground for the season.

The Bisons' offense tapped into a tried-and-true style of football. Its successful run game propelled the team and wore down opponents all season long, culminating in a dominating performance in the national title game, where it scored 38 unanswered points.

As a former football player, I remember well how much this sport asks of young men. It is more than just a game, and the preparation that goes into competing at a high level can be grueling. Intense practices, careful film study, strength training, and much more are all key ingredients an elite program must get right. Harding did just that, in addition to putting on a consistent display of athleticism and skill.

Winning a national championship has solidified their brotherhood and forged a bond the team and its fans will hold on to for years to come. The hard work of the players, dedication of Coach Paul Simmons and his staff, as well as the enthusiastic support of alumni, fans, and the Searcy community, were all critical to making this dream come true.

Great coaches can get truly the best out of their players, so it is easy to see why Coach Simmons was named National Coach of the Year by D2Football.com. We applaud his commitment to excellence personally and for every individual involved with his team.

Senator Cotton and I, along with so many Arkansans, are thrilled to commemorate Harding's outstanding season. As Bisons players, coaches, and fans are painting Searcy black and gold this week to celebrate these champions, it truly is a time to honor them.

I look forward to seeing this program reach even further heights and am thankful for how it represents the university, community, and our State on and off the football field.

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