2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108926D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 329

Offered March 9, 2026

Commending John Smith.

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Patron—Ballard

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WHEREAS, John Smith, a senior at Giles High School, won the Virginia High School League Class 1 state championship in the 175-pound wrestling event in February 2026 at the Salem Civic Center; and

WHEREAS, in addition to his state championship title, John Smith went 43-2 over the 2025-2026 season and secured first-place finishes at a number of regular season tournaments and at the Virginia High School League Class 1 Region B/C tournament; and

WHEREAS, John Smith set a number of Giles High School wrestling program records during his high school career, including most single season wins with 43, most career wins with 143, and most single season takedowns with 75; he was also both the first wrestling champion and the first two-time wrestling champion in school history; and

WHEREAS, John Smith concludes his high school wrestling career with a 143-32 record, having qualified for the state championship meet four times, won the regional championship three times, and received All-State honors three times; and

WHEREAS, beyond wrestling, John Smith was 2nd Team All-State in football and excelled in soccer, while also earning recognition from SkillsUSA for his abilities as a welder; and

WHEREAS, John Smith's accomplishments are the result of his hard work and dedication, the leadership and guidance of his coaches and teachers, and the unwavering support of his family and the entire Giles High School community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That John Smith hereby be commended for winning the 2026 Virginia High School League Class 1 state championship in the 175-pound wrestling event; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to John Smith as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his achievements and best wishes for his continued success.