TRIBUTE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2025 HBCU NATIONAL CHAMPION FOOTBALL TEAM

On 2026-01-20, Representative James E. Clyburn (D-SC-6) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2025 HBCU NATIONAL CHAMPION FOOTBALL TEAM" in the House. The speech addressed labor policy.

TRIBUTE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2025 HBCU NATIONAL CHAMPION FOOTBALL TEAM

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 13 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 13 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E53-E54] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2025 HBCU NATIONAL CHAMPION FOOTBALL TEAM _____ HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the recent accomplishments of the South Carolina State University (SCSU) Bulldogs Football Program. Last month, SCSU--my alma mater--was victorious in the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia, making them the 2025 HBCU (Historically Black College and University) National Champions. This accomplishment was history-making for the school, a great honor for the city and county of Orangeburg and the State of South Carolina, and it brought great pride to a plethora of us ``loyal sons and daughters'' of that storied institution. This was the second consecutive year the Bulldogs have appeared in the Celebration Bowl, which features the winners of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Southwest Athletic Conference and is considered the HBCU National Championship game. SCSU completed the 2025 season with an impressive 10-3 record and was undefeated in their conference. The Bulldogs have appeared in three of the last five Celebration Bowls and were victorious in two of them. They have captured the Nation's attention and reaffirmed their place among the elite programs in HBCU football. Located in the heart of the City of Orangeburg, SCSU stands as a beacon of academic excellence and a molder of civic awareness and leadership. This proud legacy of tenaciousness was powerfully reinforced during the 2025 football season, as the Bulldog Football Program delivered one of the most memorable and inspiring campaigns in the school's storied history. Facing adversity on HBCU football's biggest stage, the Bulldogs mounted a remarkable comeback after trailing 21-0 at halftime. They tied the score in the third quarter and ultimately prevailed 40-38 in an unforgettable four-overtime thriller. That victory was more than a win--it was a testament to the resilience and unbreakable spirit of the team. This historic achievement stands as a powerful reflection of the leadership of Head Coach Chennis Berry, who--in just his second season at the helm--guided the Bulldogs to a national championship. Coach Berry and his entire coaching staff are to be commended for their vision, discipline, and unwavering commitment to developing young men while building a championship-caliber program. While this season was defined by collective effort and solid teamwork, special recognition is due to several outstanding student- athletes whose performances rose to the moment. Quarterback Ryan Stubblefield was named the 2025 Celebration Bowl Offensive MVP and led the second-half comeback with poise, determination, and leadership under pressure. Anchoring a unit that delivered when it mattered most was defensive back Brenyen Scott, who earned the Celebration Bowl Defensive MVP honor. The success of the Bulldog Football Program elevated civic pride, strengthened community bonds, and contributed to the cultural and economic vitality of the community. The partnership between the city and county of Orangeburg and South Carolina State University reflects a shared commitment to excellence, opportunity, and the development of future generations. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring the South Carolina State University Bulldogs for their exceptional season and victory in the 2025 HBCU National Championship. This championship will be remembered not only for the trophies earned, but also for the legendary ``Bulldog tenacity'' the team displayed. This achievement inspired Bulldogs everywhere and will be a memorable event in the proud legacy of South Carolina State University. [[Page E54]] ____________________