TITLE: Congratulating Junior Filikitonga on his induction into the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Sports Hall of Fame.

SUMMARY: Congratulating Junior Filikitonga on his induction into the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Sports Hall of Fame.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Junior Filikitonga was inducted into the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Sports Hall of Fame on February 16, 2013, in recognition of his notable contributions to local athletics; and WHEREAS, Since 1995, the H-E-B Sports Hall of Fame has paid tribute to individuals and teams who have made a positive impact in the community through sports-related endeavors; the hall was created to acknowledge successful teams and athletes as well as officials, administrators, trainers, medical practitioners, media figures, and others who have distinguished themselves with their achievements; and WHEREAS, Junior Filikitonga attended Midway Park Elementary and Central Junior High in Euless before becoming a standout athlete at Trinity High School; he earned all-district and all-region honors in track-and-field and football, qualified for the state meet in the shot put and discus, and was chosen to play in a North-South All-Star football game as a result of his exceptional performance as a defensive end for the Trojans; and WHEREAS, Continuing his football career at the collegiate level, Mr. Filikitonga was named an All-American while playing at Tyler Junior College; he then joined the Abilene Christian University team for two seasons, during which he became the fifth all-time leading tackler for the Wildcats and earned several significant accolades; in 1997, he was selected as the Lone Star Conference Defensive Lineman of the Year and a first team All-American, and the following year he became a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, given to the NCAA Division II player of the year; and WHEREAS, When an injury cut short his professional football career, Mr. Filikitonga returned to Abilene Christian as an assistant coach for two years and also volunteered as a youth football coach; in addition, he has become active in the sport of mixed martial arts, both as a competitor and a coach; and WHEREAS, Junior Filikitonga's many accomplishments have helped advance the proud tradition of athletic excellence in the Hurst-Euless-Bedford school system and beyond, and he is indeed deserving of this prestigious honor; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Junior Filikitonga on his induction into the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Sports Hall of Fame and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Filikitonga as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Stickland Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 999 was adopted by the House on March 27, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House