Local lawmakers honor Westfield football team

State Reps. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) and Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) honored the Westfield High School Football team in the Westfield High School auditorium on Friday, March 14, 2017. (Photo provided)

State Reps. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) and Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) recently honored the Westfield High School football team with a House resolution congratulating them on their state championship win.

Cook and Schaibley recently visited Westfield High School to honor team members and coaching staff. 

“This football team has worked so hard to achieve this title win,” Cook said. “The Shamrocks are outstanding athletes and students, and reflect the quality leadership and characteristics found in their coach, Jake Gilbert. It’s refreshing to see Jake’s spiritual side on the sidelines and in interviews throughout the season. I congratulate these young students for their hard work and dedication to their sport and our community.”

Under the direction of head coach Jake Gilbert, the Shamrocks faced the Columbus East Olympians in the state championship game last November at Lucas Oil Stadium. Schaibley said although Westfield had one of the best defensive lines in the state all season, the team was still ranked behind the Olympians. The final score of the championship game was 16-13, giving Westfield their first-ever football state title.

“Our community is so proud of this football team, not only for bringing home the state title for the first-time ever, but for what they give back to the community,” Schaibley said. “Many of these athletes maintained a high GPA while also dedicating many hours to community service projects. They have participated in many good deeds at food banks, blood drives, fundraisers to fight cancer, and they also hosted a Special Olympics clinic. They deserve to be recognized for their work on and off the field.”

State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) represents House District 32, which includes all of Tipton County and portions of Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Howard and Grant counties.

State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) represents House District 24, which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.