PHOTOS BY PAULA MERRITT /

THE MERIDIAN STAR



Meridian High School wide receiver Marcus McQuarley holds the MHSAA Class 5A State Championship trophy in the air as he celebrates with teammates, cheerleaders, band members and fans at Dumont Plaza Friday. The Wildcats were honored for their state championship and were issued a proclamation from the mayor in recognition of the team’s achievements. Members of the community have established the “Meridian High School Athletic Fund” at the Community Foundation of East Mississippi. While its purpose is to support athletic programs at the high school, the most immediate task is to recognize the members of the 2008-2009 championship football team by purchasing championship rings. At left, C. J. Russell, 7, brother of MHS standout quarterback, Tyler Russell, carries around the trophy during the rally.