ASSEMBLY GOES DEEP TO HONOR SCARLET KNIGHTS' HISTORIC SEASON

(TRENTON) - The Assembly today passed legislation Assembly members Upendra Chivukula, Craig Stanley, Patrick Diegnan, John Burzichelli and Jeff Van Drew sponsored to honor the Rutgers football program.
The Scarlet Knights finished their 2006 season with an 11-2 record and a big win over Kansas State in the Texas Bowl, the first bowl victory in the school's 137-year history.

"New Jersey couldn't have been more pleased for the university, fans and student-athletes with the outcome of this record setting season," said Chivukula (D-Somerset).

The resolution (AR-23) was the Assembly's official recognition of the team's excellent season.

"The young Scarlet Knights impressed nationally televised audiences with their skill, determination and heart," said Stanley (D-Essex).

Head Coach Greg Schiano - Liberty Mutual, FWAA/Eddie Robinson, Walter Camp Football Foundation, Big East Conference and Home Depot National Coach of the Year - along with several players were on hand to accept the resolution in the Assembly chambers.

"Just like famed Jets quarterback Joe Namath said 'Football is an honest game. It's true to life. It's a game about sharing. Football is a team game. So is life'; and these players and coaches proved it this season," said Diegnan (D-Middlesex).

"Rutgers truly painted the state scarlet and we were all thankful that we got to enjoy the ride," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem).

"As a proud alumni, Rutgers deserves a pat on the back for a wonderful season," said Van Drew (D-Atlantic/Cape May/ Cumberland).

The resolution was unanimously passed.

-- 30 --

FOR RELEASE:
January 29, 2007

CONTACT:
Assemblyman Chivukula
(732) 247-3999
Assemblyman Van Drew
(609) 465-0700
Assemblyman Burzichelli
(732) 247-3999
Assemblyman Stanley
(973) 399-1000
Assemblyman Diegnan
(732) 247-3999
John Duthie
(609) 292-7065