CONGRATS-EAST ST. LOUIS H.S.

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jay Hoffman

The bill formally congratulates East St. Louis Senior High School’s Flyers for winning the 2026 IHSA Class 3A boys basketball state title and recognizes their season’s achievements

Resolution Adopted

Summary of HR0779 (104th General Assembly, Illinois) – CONGRATS-EAST ST. LOUIS H.S.

Purpose and Intent

The bill is a House Resolution recognizing and congratulating the East St. Louis Senior High School boys basketball team, known as the Flyers, for winning the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 3A State Championship in the 2026 season.

It serves to publicly acknowledge the team’s achievement and to commend the players, coaches, and school staff for their success and leadership.

Key Provisions and Changes

Formal acknowledgment: The resolution states that the Illinois House of Representatives congratulates the Flyers on winning the 2026 IHSA Class 3A State Championship.

Recognition details:

Notes the Flyers’ season record (33 wins, 4 losses) and that this is the program’s second state championship (also winning in 2019).
Mentions national ranking as #1 in Illinois and #47 nationally during their run.
Highlights major tournament success (Proviso West Holiday Tournament and the Illinois Southwestern Conference title).
Recognizes Head Coach Mark Chambers for being named Illinois Basketball Coaches Association State Coach of the Year for the second time.
Lists the coaching staff, administrators, athletic staff, and players by name.

Symbols of esteem: Requires that a suitable copy of the resolution be presented to the Flyers’ coaches and players.

Who or What Would Be Affected

East St. Louis Senior High School boys basketball team (the Flyers), including:

Players: Durand Sain, Rashaan Watson, Rashaad Watson, Terri’yon Webster, Alex Johnson, Deatrick Palmer, Jaidon Pelly, Devrice Johnson, Jamir Allen, Jamison White, Jahadi White, Phillip Jones, Emaurion Jackson, Tyrik Barnes, and others listed.
Coaching staff: Head Coach Mark Chambers; Assistant Coaches Jermaine Chambers, Darius Austin, Carlton King, Kelvin Mosby.
Support staff: Managers Marquis Mcdougle and Mason Chambers; Athletic Director Darren Sunkett; Assistant Athletic Director Brian Schoby; Athletic Trainer Tia Berry; Statistician Terrence Hobson; Superintendent Arthur Culver; Principal Brittany Green.

The Illinois General Assembly and state officials, as the body issuing the resolution.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Type of measure: House Resolution (HR), a ceremonial expression of congratulations and commemoration, not a bill proposing law or changes in policy.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsored by Jay Hoffman.

Effect: Public proclamation within the official record and distribution of a copy of the resolution to the team and school leadership.

Timing reference: Recites achievements tied to the 2026 IHSA season and champions title; serves as a formal post-season commendation.

Practical Impact

Cultural and community impact: Official recognition by the state can boost school pride, media attention, and community support for East St. Louis Senior High School’s athletic program.

Non-legislative effect: The resolution does not create legal obligations, funds, or policy changes; it is an expression of appreciation and celebration.