Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the University of Florida football team on winning the 2006 NCAA national championship. Madam Speaker, as a University of Florida graduate, born in ``Gator Country,'' I could not be happier with the outcome of last night's game. This team showed true grit and grace by overcoming public opinion, which said they did not belong in the national title game, to defeat a daunting opponent. Madam Speaker, I would also like to congratulate the University of Florida as a whole for becoming the first institution in Division 1 history to hold both the NCAA Men's Basketball and NCAA Football Championships at the same time. Last night's achievement was truly historic. Madam Speaker, it took the University of Florida 90 years to win its first NCAA Football Championship and only 10 to win its second. Hopefully this trend will continue. Madam Speaker, I hope everyone will join me in congratulating these fine young men on their historic victory.