Virginia State Del. Gary A. Reese (R-67th) honored Westfield High School's 2003 state championship football team (Group AAA, Division 6) by formally commemorating their achievements and recognizing them on the floor of the Virginia House of Delegates in Richmond on Thursday, Feb. 26.
Reese also presented Westfield Principal Dale Rumberger and the coaches and team members present with a commemorative, framed copy of House Joint Resolution 219, introduced by Reese and unanimously passed by both the House and Senate, formally honoring the Bulldogs for their achievements last season, at a reception prior to their introduction in the House. The team also toured Virginia's historic State Capitol during their stay.
"Their football mastery through the very-competitive Concorde District, and their romp through the regional and state tournaments was unprecedented and, considering their feat only four years into the school's history, bodes well for a great future in Westfield's sports programs," said Reese.
He continued: "Their triumphic performance is a tribute to not only the coaches and team, but also the sustained and enthusiastic support of Westfield's students, parents, faculty, and supporters."
Bulldogs Head Coach Tom Verbanik, Assistant Coach Lindsey Ott, and several Bulldog players joined Principal Rumberger in the trip to Richmond. Del. Tim Hugo (R-40th) and Sen. Ken Cuccinelli (R-37th) also honored the team during the reception.