OLYMPIA…State Sen. Jim Honeyford, R-Sunnyside, will honor the Sunnyside Christian boys’ basketball team, the Knights, today in a resolution before the Washington State Senate.   

Honeyford will schedule a formal ceremony in Sunnyside to present the resolution to the players and coaches after the 2005 legislative session adjourns later this spring. 

“The Knights’ success can be attributed to superior coaching and excellent players,” Honeyford said.  “Their heart and enthusiasm for the game proved to be unmatchable.”   

The resolution honors the Knights for their ultimate teamwork and dedication that led them to become the 2005 state class B boys basketball champions.   

After their first and only loss early in the season, the Knights went on to win their next 22 games and earned their way to the school’s historic third trip to the state championship game.   

At the state tournament, the Knights beat their first two opponents, Tacoma Baptist by 30 points and DeSales by a final score of 54-31.  In their semifinal game, they shot a remarkable 21 for 27 from the foul line in their 53-41 victory.  The Knights took on undefeated Willapa Valley in the state title game, pulling ahead in the fourth quarter to capture the championship, 46-41. 

- 30 -

For more information contact Janelle M. Guthrie, Senate Republican Communications Director, at 360-786-7516 or via e-mail at guthrie.janelle@leg.wa.gov