87R26801 JRI-D

By: Ellzey H.R. No. 1296

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Paul Willingham, an assistant coach for the Ennis High School football team, has been named one of the 2021 winners of the High School Broyles Award; and

WHEREAS, Named in honor of legendary University of Arkansas head coach Frank Broyles, the Broyles Award was initially established to honor the top assistant coach in college football, and in 2018 the award was expanded to give a national spotlight to the top assistant coaches at the high school level, with a winner being named in each participating state; and

WHEREAS, Affectionately known as "Coach Willie" by his players, Paul Willingham began coaching at Ennis High School in 1982; he currently serves as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach in addition to teaching biology; he helped guide the football powerhouse to state championships in 2000, 2001, 2004, and 2014; and

WHEREAS, Coach Willingham moved with his family to Ennis in 1973, and he was a member of the Lions football team for five years, playing primarily as a linebacker; after graduating in 1978, he attended Tarleton State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in agriculture education; in all of his endeavors, he is supported by his wife of 39 years, Kathy Ballew Willingham, and the couple's three children; and

WHEREAS, Through his leadership and expertise, Paul Willingham has inspired generations of students to realize their full potential, both on and off the field, and he is indeed deserving of this prestigious honor; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Paul Willingham on receiving a 2021 High School Broyles Award and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Coach Willingham as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.