SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5003 Offered March 28, 2006 Commending the Virginia Wesleyan College men's basketball team. ---------- Patrons-- Wagner, Blevins, Lambert, Lucas, Miller and Stolle ----------

WHEREAS, the Virginia Wesleyan College men's basketball team won the 2006 NCAA Division III men's basketball national championship; and

WHEREAS, Virginia Wesleyan College is a four-year liberal arts college located in Hampton Roads, Virginia; and  

WHEREAS, Virginia Wesleyan College is both the first Virginia team and the first Old Dominion Athletic Conference  team to win the Division III men's basketball championship; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Wesleyan Marlins finished their season with the longest winning streak in the nation, 28 consecutive wins, and had a 30-3 overall record, establishing a new school record; and

WHEREAS, the Marlins had not led until late in the title game against Wittenberg University of Ohio, but a three-point shot made by sophomore guard Tonton Balenga, with 21 seconds left in the game, put the score at 59-56 and secured the win for Virginia Wesleyan; and

WHEREAS, the Marlins, known for their teamwork, intensity and perseverance, were led by Coach David Macedo, who was selected as National Coach of the Year by the National Association of Basketball Coaches and was named National Coach of the Year by D3hoops.com and also by Molten/DII News; and

WHEREAS, the Marlins have many acclaimed players including Tonton Balenga, who was selected as most outstanding player in the Men's Division III Basketball Tournament, and Brandon Adair, who was selected as Player of the Year and All-American First Team by the National Association of Basketball Coaches and First Team All-American by D3hoops.com as well as being selected to the NCAA All -Tournament Men's Division III basketball team; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend and congratulate the Marlins of Virginia Wesleyan on their NCAA Division III men's basketball championship; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Head Coach David Macedo and the men who comprise the mighty Marlins in honor of their exceptional performance and their national championship.