A house RESOLUTION

 

TO CONGRATULATE LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL AT THE CELEBRATION OF ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THE YEARS AHEAD.

 

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives is pleased to learn that the Lexington High School athletics program is celebrating a century of producing outstanding athletes in 2025; and

 

Whereas, the Lexington Wildcat Athletic Booster Club served as host of the 100 Years of Athletic Excellence Celebration for the school, held in January; and

 

Whereas, as part of a weekend of commemoration, Lexington High honored its individual and team champions from previous years. From halftime ceremonies during the varsity doubleheader against Irmo to a special celebration held at The Grove on Saturday, January 11, 2025, the school's sports legacy was highlighted by various generations of alumni; and

 

Whereas, the 1976 and 1979 girls basketball state championship teams were recognized during the Lady Wildcats' 60-37 win over the Lady Yellow Jackets. Following the victory, Head Coach Molly Goodrich received a commemorative game ball representing her school-record one hundred fifty seventh victory, achieved days earlier against Catawba Ridge; and

 

Whereas, in addition, members of the 1996, 2000, and 2004 boys basketball state championship teams were honored during the boys matchup with Irmo; and

 

Whereas, Lexington High School's (LHS's) athletic history includes a number of memorable events brought about by war, enactment of new laws, improvement in health and safety for student athletes, and other factors. Among these events are the following:

•           World War II interrupted football play for two years at LHS. When young veterans returned from war, they were allowed to play football, and for a few years, they played with, and against, traditional high school student athletes.

•           In 1972, Title IX was created to give women and girls equal access to education and sports. Since that time, LHS has taken its girls varsity athletic programs from two sports (basketball; track and field) to eleven different sports. During that same period of time, boys varsity athletic programs went from three sports to eleven sports.

•           Medical and safety programs have developed over the years for the betterment of athletic programs. LHS transitioned from one team doctor to high school managers and trainers assigned to all teams for both games and practice. Under the direction of Damone Leaphart (thirty-five years), LHS sports medicine programs became a model for other schools and programs. Colleges and universities across the State and beyond have been beneficiaries of LHS graduates who participated in its sports medicine program; and

 

Whereas, the House takes great pride in celebrating the fine athletes of Lexington High School for setting a standard that has led them to consistent excellence in both team and individual sports for one hundred years. Go, Wildcats! Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Lexington High School at the celebration of one hundred years of athletic excellence and extend best wishes for continued success in the years ahead.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Principal Jennifer McNair and Athletic Director Dustin Curtis of Lexington High School.

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