North Country Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, told members of the two-time Class D state champion Heuvelton girls' basketball team the skills that make them winners on the court will translate into helping them be successful in their personal lives.

Her 116th “River” District covers Massena, Ogdensburg, Louisville, Waddington, Lisbon, Oswegatchie, Morristown and Hammond along the St. Lawrence River, and also the St. Lawrence County towns of Canton, Potsdam, Rossie, Macomb and DePeyster, plus northern Jefferson County, not including Watertown.

Assemblywoman Russell visited Heuvelton Central School on Friday and presented team members with certificates marking their accomplishment.

Heuvelton edged Panama 62-60 last month to repeat as the New York State Class D champions. They defeated Eldred 59-45 in the state semis and have won 31 straight games dating back to the title run in the 2014-15 season.

Team members include Paige McCormick, Nathalie Barr, Madison McCormick, Alexandria Steele, Kristi Donnelly, Kaden Mack, Carin Sherwood, Karina Warren, Hannah Thornhill, Paige Weston, Jaelin Calkins, Gabrielle Johnson, Alyssa Johnson, Eliza Martin, Natchaya "Pattie" Paramesthanakom and Kelsey Williams. The Bulldogs are coached by Rob Powers and Austin Weakfall. Lara Martin was the team's manager this season.

"I want you to know what you ladies have accomplished is amazing. I hope you understand it is a very significant achievement. It takes a whole lot of strength and tenacity to be a state champion. You know you can dig deeper. That strength will now put you on a trajectory that is much steeper than your peers," Assemblywoman Russell told the players.

She said the players have shown they have ability to perform at their best and stay focused in games with the most pressure.

"You ladies blow me away. You have figured out how to work with each other toward the same goal, dig down and make it happen. You are more than just girls from a small town. You are state champions. I expect great things out of you," she noted.

"This is a skill set you have that most other people don't have; skills that will help you be leaders down the road. It will transcend the success you have had in high school athletics into your professional lives," according to Assemblywoman Russell.