Recognizing the Retirement of Coach Charles Covington
Floor Speech
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Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge Coach Charles Covington, who recently announced his retirement from coaching, weeks after Saltillo secured both the Class 6A boys' and girls' state titles. Hailing from Hereford, Maryland, Covington joined Saltillo in 1984 as a Bible teacher following his graduation from Virginia Tech. Fueled by his passion for the sport, he played a pivotal role in establishing the sports program at Saltillo.
More than three decades ago, in 1984, Coach Covington founded Saltillo High School's inaugural cross-country team. He embarked on his coaching journey, guiding his first cross-country runner in 1988 and forming the first complete team in 1990. Prior to accepting the position, Covington boldly assured his administrators that he would produce a state champion within a few years. Reflecting on those early days, he shared in an article in the Tupelo Daily Journal, ``They reminded me of that after three or four years when we weren't state champions yet. They were gracious and didn't hold me to my brag.''
After patiently building the program, Covington led his team to their inaugural title in 1999, marking the beginning of an impressive legacy. Throughout his tenure at Saltillo, he accumulated a total of 29 state championships in cross country, comprising twenty for girls, seven for boys, and two for junior high. Covington's achievements include eight State Coach of the Year honors and one National Coach of the Year recognition.
In a statement, Covington expressed, ``My real joy and fulfillment has been in the relationships with my runners and their families. Coaching at Saltillo has been a dream job and a great blessing.'' Although retiring from coaching, Coach Covington will continue teaching Ancient History and serving as a pastor in Tupelo.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Coach Covington for his unwavering dedication and devotion to Saltillo High School and the community over the span of 30 years.
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