2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 72

Celebrating the life of John P. McSweeney, Jr.

Agreed to by the Senate, March 5, 2026

WHEREAS, John P. McSweeney, Jr., of Lynchburg, the highly admired head coach of the Liberty High School boys' basketball team, died on January 29, 2026; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney grew up in New York and graduated from Saint Mary's High School in Manhasset, then continued his education at Columbia University; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney worked as a high school athletics coach for two schools in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before he was hired to reinvigorate the boys' basketball program at Liberty High School in Bedford beginning with the 2023–2024 season; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney presided over an incredible turnaround for the team, and in his third season as head coach, he led the Liberty High School Minutemen to a 10–2 record and the top spot in the Virginia High School League Region 2C power rankings prior to his passing; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney inspired his players with his energy and dedication, challenging them to achieve their fullest potential on and off the basketball court; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney was highly admired by his colleagues at Liberty High School for his kindness, work ethic, and dedication to youth leadership; and

WHEREAS, John McSweeney will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his children, Alyssa and Brian, and their families; his parents, John and Anne; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of John P. McSweeney, Jr.; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of John P. McSweeney, Jr., as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's respect for his memory.