West Central Reporter

The Illinois House of Representatives recently passed House Resolution 677 to honor the West Central Co-op [Winchester-Bluffs] boys basketball team, known as the Cougars, for their remarkable achievement in winning the 2023-2024 Class 1A State Championship. The resolution recognizes the team's outstanding performance throughout the season.

In a statement, the House Resolution highlighted, "The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate the West Central Co-op [Winchester-Bluffs] boys basketball team, the Cougars, on winning the 2023-2024 Class 1A State Championship." The Cougars clinched the title by defeating Mounds Meridian with a score of 62 to 43 at the State Farm Center in Champaign, marking a historic moment for West Central.

The resolution further acknowledges the Cougars' exceptional season, noting that they concluded with a record of 36 wins and 3 losses, a feat that stands as the most wins in a single season in the school's history. Additionally, the team's triumph in various tournaments and championships, including the Beardstown Thanksgiving Tournament, the Waverly Holiday Tournament, and the Winchester Invitational Tournament, reflects their dedication and skill on the court.

Throughout their journey to the state championship, the Cougars faced formidable opponents and overcame challenges, such as a tough victory in the Class 1A Supersectional against Illini Bluffs. The resolution also commended the team's resilience in the semifinals, where they secured a thrilling double-overtime win against Aurora Christian before dominating the championship game against Mounds Meridian.

In conclusion, the Illinois House of Representatives expressed their pride in the West Central Co-op boys basketball team's success, stating, "Resolved, that we congratulate the West Central Co-op [Winchester-Bluffs] boys basketball team, the Cougars, on winning the 2023-2024 Class 1A State Championship, and we wish them many more successful seasons." The resolution also mentioned specific team members and coaches who contributed to the historic achievement.