State Representative Paul Jacobs passed House Resolution 786 on Thursday to congratulate the Herrin Junior High School Girl’s Basketball team, the Lady Tigers, on winning the 2026 Southern Illinois Junior High School Athletic Association (SIJHSAA) Class L State Championship and on achieving a 25-0 undefeated season!
The 2025-2026 Lady Tigers include eight graders Rylin Cravens, Blakly Faulkenberry, Brynlee Fortner, Emma Patalano, and Amayah Simelton; seventh graders Elle Hall, Lexi Henard, Bryleigh Holland, Ainsley Rich, and Olivia Wade; and sixth graders Gracie Menesse, Betty More-Coleman, and Caterina Zaranti.
“This is a great group of girls and thank you to Coach Matt Zarantti for your leadership and commitment to an excellent program at Herrin Junior High School,” said Rep. Jacobs. “In addition to the hard work and talent of the athletes, we also want to thank Assistant Coaches Layla Wade and Makayla Starkweather, and team Managers Molly Duppong and Gracelyn Evans.”
You may read the full resolution HERE.