Bill Text: VA SJR378 | 2017 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Commending the Old Dominion University football team.
Spectrum: Bipartisan Bill
Status: (Passed) 2017-02-17 - Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ378ER) [SJR378 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2017-SJR378-Enrolled.html
WHEREAS, the Old Dominion University football team earned its first-ever bowl victory in December of 2016 with a 24–20 decision over Eastern Michigan University in the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl; and
WHEREAS, the Old Dominion University (ODU) Monarchs were able to accomplish this feat in their first-ever bowl appearance; and
WHEREAS, the ODU Monarchs completed the 2016 season with a 10–3 record, one of just 26 teams in the country at the FBS level to accomplish that feat; and
WHEREAS, running back Ray Lawry was named the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl MVP, rushing for 133 yards, while TJ Ricks was named Defensive MVP with nine tackles and a tackle for loss; and
WHEREAS, the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl victory capped off a 2016 season that saw the ODU Monarch football program complete its first FBS undefeated home season and extend its home sellout streak to 54 consecutive games; and
WHEREAS, the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl reached an estimated three million people nationally on ESPN; ODU had 1.8 million impressions on social media, and the game was the fifth most watched event on cable television that day; and
WHEREAS, the ODU Monarchs' best FBS season to date is a testament to the drive, skill, and character of the student-athletes, the expertise and leadership of the coaching and support staff, and the support of the University administration; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Old Dominion University football team on winning its first-ever bowl game; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to John Broderick, president of Old Dominion University, and Bobby Wilder, head coach of the Old Dominion University football team, as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the team's success.
