2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2182

Commending Eddie Garretson.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, June 22, 2026

WHEREAS, Eddie Garretson, a distinguished leader and advocate for people with disabilities in Springfield and Fairfax County, is retiring in 2026 after more than 33 years of extraordinary service through the Springfield Challengers and Eddie's Club; and

WHEREAS, after witnessing the impact of a Little League Baseball Challenger division in Dumfries in 1992, Eddie Garretson was inspired to establish the Springfield Challengers in 1993, creating opportunities for children, teens, and adults with disabilities to play baseball regardless of skill level or ability; and

WHEREAS, what began with only nine players at Trailside Park in Springfield grew under Eddie Garretson's leadership into one of the region's premier Challenger programs, serving more than 100 players annually through multiple divisions and welcoming participants of all ages; and

WHEREAS, guided by the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to play, succeed, and belong, Eddie Garretson helped create an environment where athletes develop confidence, social skills, friendships, and a lasting sense of accomplishment while enjoying the game of baseball; and

WHEREAS, Eddie Garretson's leadership enabled thousands of players with disabilities and their families to experience the joy of teamwork, community, and inclusion, fostering lifelong friendships and cherished memories both on and off the field; and

WHEREAS, Eddie Garretson provided players the opportunity to shine and to grow from new experiences through travel and special experiences, leading teams to events in Virginia Beach; Williamsport, Pennsylvania; and even the White House in Washington, D.C.; and

WHEREAS, motivated by the success of the Springfield Challengers and recognizing the need for additional opportunities for social engagement, Eddie Garretson founded Eddie's Club, which for over 20 years gave young people the opportunity to participate in fun and engaging activities year-round, such as movies, games, sporting events, theater shows, bowling, parties, and more; and

WHEREAS, with great dedication, compassion, and vision, Eddie Garretson has exemplified the highest ideals of volunteerism and has made an immeasurable and lasting impact on the lives of generations of people with disabilities and their families; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Eddie Garretson hereby be commended on the occasion of his retirement for his outstanding service to the special needs community and his remarkable legacy as founder of the Springfield Challengers and Eddie's Club; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Eddie Garretson as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his contributions to Springfield and the Commonwealth.