VIDEO: Congressman Roe's presentation

The record, red in the U.S. House of Representatives Dec. 2, 2014, honors Sparks for passing Bear Bryant on the all-time wins list. 

"You young men are some of the luckiest people in the United States to be playing for this man right here," Rep. Roe told Carson-Newman's football players the day before fall camp begins. "Everyone in the country should know about (coach Sparks)."

The Congressional Record is as follows:

                           HON. DAVID P. ROE

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 2, 2014

  Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I submit these remarks today to

recognize Coach Ken Sparks of the Carson-Newman's Eagles football

program on becoming number 6 on the NCAA's all-time career wins list

with 324 victories. As a member of this distinguished group, Coach

Sparks has helped set the bar for athletic excellence in our corner of

East Tennessee. This recognition stands as a testament to his hard work

and dedication.

   Over his 35 year career at Carson-Newman, Coach Sparks has led the

Eagles to five NAIA championships and 24 playoff appearances.

Personally, he has attained many awards including the12-time SAC Coach

of the Year, the 2002 Division II Coach of the Year, and was inducted

into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

   In addition to his successes on the field, Coach Sparks has also

devoted his career to the development of his players within the

community. Serving as mentor to countless young athletes, he has

instilled the values of hard work and perseverance into those playing

for him. Coach Sparks has served as an inspiration to our community and

has impacted the lives of those around him.

   I thank Coach Sparks for his service to Carson-Newman University and

our community.

Carson-Newman opens up its fall camp for Sparks' 36^th season at Mossy Creek Wednesday.